A sports psychologist helps a high-level athlete focus on the task of competing. There are many issues that the sports psychologist will attempt to help an athlete understand. The athlete may be slumping and overcome with anxiety. An athlete may have significant issues to face in his personal life. The sports psychologist gives the athlete a chance to open up and talk to a professional in a confidential setting.
Sports Anxiety
Many athletes have to contend with their own anxiety every time they step on the field or court, or skate on the ice. Issues with confidence are common. Many athletes have short careers, and while they have achieved a lot to compete at a high level, they know that others are always clawing their way up the ladder and that their job is overwhelming. This can weigh on an athlete who may wonder if the next competitor climbing the ladder is better at the sport and more valuable. A sports psychologist will allow a player to talk about these issues and may provide valuable trigger points that will allow the athlete to defuse the anxiety.
Off the Field
An athlete may be a superstar who makes everything look easy on the field. Fans may pay significant money to see a big-name slugger hit long home runs on a consistent basis. That player may be in the middle of a banner season and sees and hears his name glorified by fans and sports journalists. However, that superstar is still a human being with human problems. That athlete may have to contend with a marriage that is failing. Despite his onfield success, the athlete may have financial problems. Family issues such as illness or injury may come into play. A sports psychologist can help an athlete talk out these issues.
Educational Requirements
Sports psychologists have at least a master's degree in psychology. Many sports psychologists have doctorate degrees. In addition, most sports psychologists have taken courses and seminars that offer a glimpse into the athlete's mindset to help them understand the issues they will be facing on a regular basis. Sports psychologists stay on top of the industry by attending seminars given by experienced professionals.
Salary
The starting salary for sports psychologists is about $45,000 a year, according to EduDecisions, as of January 2011. The median annual salary is $55,000 and experienced professionals can expect to make up to $80,000. Sports psychologists hired by major-league sports teams can make significantly more than that. A sports psychologist can expect full benefits, including major medical, vacation, sick days and a pension plan.
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