Sports Psychologist
Description
A sports physiologist is a type of exercise physiologist that works strictly with athletes in order to progress or maintain overall health, fitness, performance and endurance. The physiologist studies internal parts of the human body such as the arteries, heart and skeletal muscles to learn how an athlete reacts to specific types of exercise, training and diet. After having gained that knowledge, a sports physiologist can recommend an optimum diet and training regime.
Certifications Necessary to Practice
At the present time, no credentials beyond a state license are needed in order to practice sport psychology.
Daily Activities: Nature of the Work
meet with an athlete and talk about things like how to enhance their performance, coping with pressures of competition, mentally recovering from injuries, mental blocks, and how to enjoy the sport more
Education Requirements
Entry-level positions for licensed sports psychologists typically require a master's or doctorate degree in clinical psychology, sports phycology or counseling. Graduate and post-graduate students typically complete advanced coursework in exercise science, kinesiology and clinical psychology. A one-year internship through a program approved by the American Psychological Association (APA) may be an additional requirement for graduation
Average Income
sport psychologists in university athletic departments can earn $60,000 to $80,000 a year, the highest salaries can exceed $100,000 annually
Skills Necessary to be Successful
communication skills
compassion
emotional stability
ethics
interpersonal skills
open mindedness
patience
trustworthiness
Practice Setting
Usually found at colleges or universitys, some athletes hire them to be personal therapist that meet with every week or after a game
3 fun facts
you could be working with a professional
you get to travel with sports teams
mostly everything is paid for when you work with a university