Sports Psychology therapists in Bethesda, MD
Browse Sports Psychology therapists in Bethesda, Maryland. Compare credentials, specialties and therapeutic approach. Contact a therapist to learn more.
Sports
Dr. Patricia Webbink
Psychologist, MA and PhD in Clinical Psychology
For 45 years, with great success, my professional colleagues and I have assisted athletes in all kinds of sports: basketball, baseball, fencing, football, bowling, golf, Aikido, Tai Chi, wrestling twirling, gymnastics, running, and more. We also work with whole teams for peak performance. Research shows that the Mindfulness and Visualization techniques, which I pioneered into the practice of psychotherapy 55 years ago, effectively assist athletic success. For example, by focusing attention on body mindfulness and centering, the athlete is better able to focus on peak performance in sports. In addition, players can regulate thoughts and emotions and personal problems that might distract. Imagery (creative visualization) can be used to improve performance and also to increase self-confidence. Research shows that athletes with higher athletic achievement tend to have stronger imaging abilities. With my guidance, such abilities can be developed, practiced, and ultimately much improved. Broadly speaking, Sport Psychology is defined as the study of the psychological aspects of any competitive, recreational, educational, or health-related physcial activity. I offer free monthly Zoom workshops where I facilitate a balanced state of mind using Mindfulness and Guided Imagery techniques. My colleagues are other licensed therapists and sportscasters! Please feel free to call for a consultation: 301-229-8000.
56 Years Experience
In-Person in Bethesda, MD 20816
Online in Bethesda, MD
Sports
Laura Goldstein
Marriage and Family Therapist, LCMFT
Alex on our team obtained his certification in sports psychology in Summer 2025: https://mccounselingcenter.com/alexbleiweis/
14 Years Experience
In-Person Near Bethesda, MD
Online in Bethesda, MD
Sports
Chesapeake Behavioral Health Serivces
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW-C, LCPC
Our therapists are trained in effective approaches to help you assess and manage the emotional side of sports and performace.
17 Years Experience
Online in Bethesda, MD (Online Only)
Sports
Stuart Hellebrand, M.S., C.Ht.
Hypnotherapist
Hypnosis is a valuable tool for those seeking a competitive edge in sports performance. I have been involved with sports performance improvement since the 1970’s through my work with sports competitors to include recreational golfers, collegiate middle-distance runners and swimmers, marathon runners, and others. Noteworthy, among my clients, has been a CIF track and field champion, a swimmer on Cal Berkeley’s 2X national championship team, a collegiate middle-distance champion, and a marathoner who successfully completed the Mount Everest Marathon.
Addressing the performance aspects of sports through hypnosis complements physical training and can lead to breakthrough performances. My use of hypnosis works by reprogramming negative self-talk, empowering performance through affirmations and guided imagery, boosting confidence, and reducing anxiety. In that pre-competition jitters or fear of failure can derail an athlete’s mindset, hypnosis employs subconscious relaxation techniques and guided imagery to reduce cortisol levels and promote a calm composed state of mind, while fostering a winning attitude.
Studies have shown the efficacy of hypnosis in sports. For example, a 2016 review in the International Journal of Sports Science highlighted significant performance improvements in athletes who used hypnosis compared to those who did not. Those who used hypnosis reported better focus, reduced pre-competition anxiety, and enhanced execution of skills after hypnosis sessions.
In sports performance counseling, my use of hypnosis facilitates vivid mental imagery, allowing athletes to visualize successful performance. Research has shown that mental rehearsal can strengthen neural pathways, helping the body to perform as if it has already achieved the desired outcome. Using hypnotic relaxation to tap into an athlete’s subconscious allows the competitor to tap into their commitment to training, discipline, and goal achievement in a stress-free manner.
59 Years Experience
Online in Bethesda, MD
Sports
Jay Shaw
Hypnotherapist, CHt (Certified Hypnotherapist)
Athletic performance breaks down between the ears before it breaks down on the field. Choke moments, performance anxiety, inconsistency under pressure these are subconscious patterns, not skill gaps. I work with competitive athletes to rebuild the identity they compete from: new pressure responses, new pre-performance baselines, and a nervous system calibrated for execution when it counts most.
8 Years Experience
Online in Bethesda, MD
Sports Psychology therapists in Bethesda, MD Statistics
Sports Psychology therapists in Bethesda, MD average 20 years of experience and charge around $233 per session. 100% offer online sessions. The top treatment approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (77%), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) (42%), and Behavioral Therapy (42%).
Average years in practice
20 Years Experience
Average cost per session
$233
Accept insurance
19%
Offer sliding scale
55%
Gender ID
| 46% |
Female |
|
| 46% |
Male |
|
| 5% |
Non-Binary |
|
| 3% |
Gender Fluid |
|
Session Type
| 52% |
Online Only |
|
| 48% |
In Person and Online |
|
Top Treatment Approaches
| 77% | Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) |
| 42% | Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) |
| 42% | Behavioral Therapy |
| 39% | Family Systems Therapy |
| 39% | Person-Centered Therapy (Rogerian) |
| 32% | Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) |
| 29% | Existential / Humanistic Therapy |
Ages Served
| 100% | Adult |
| 81% | Young Adult |
| 58% | Senior |
| 58% | Teen |
| 32% | Children |
Client Focus
| 61% | Women |
| 55% | Men |
| 39% | Black / African American |
| 39% | Jewish |
| 39% | Persons with Disabilities |