What is a sport psychologist?

A psychologist is an individual who has completed graduate training in the field of psychology and is licensed by a specific state. In some states individuals with a Masters Degree can become licensed psychologists while in others a Doctoral degree is required. A sport psychologist is a psychologist with expertise in the following areas:

* Performance enhancement through the use of psychological skills training
* Issues that are specific to the psychological well-being of athletes
* Working with the organizations and systems that are present in sport settings
* Social and developmental factors that influence sport participation

While sport psychology is recognized as a specific field of study within the Kinesiology and Physical Education departments, it is not one of the traditional fields of practice offered by psychology graduate programs. For example, while one can obtain a graduate psychology degree with a concentration in children or substance abuse, the same can not be said of sport psychology. Although many psychology departments offer single courses in sport psychology, the opportunities for graduate level degrees are few and far between.

What credentials are needed?

At the present time, no credentials beyond a state license are needed in order to practice sport psychology. Ethically and practically speaking, you should have expertise in the above mentioned areas. Division 47 (Sport and Exercise Psychology) of the American Psychological Association recently submitted a proposal for the establishment of a proficiency to the CRSPPP (Commission for the Recognition of Specialties and Proficiencies in Professional Psychology). Individuals offering sport psychology services would have to adhere to the standards set forth in this proficiency. Otherwise, they would risk being in violation of ethical guidelines which could result in the suspension and/or termination of one's license to practice.

Although accreditation is not necessary, it does not mean that there are no benefits to becoming a certified sport psychologist. There are many organizations offering to certify individuals. The most reputable of these organizations is the Association for the Advancement of Applied Sport Psychology (AAASP). Designation as a Certified Consultant, AAASP carries the benefit of the possibility of being listed on the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) Sport Psychology Registry. This is a listing of individuals who are approved to work with Olympic athletes and National teams. For more information, you should visit the AAASP web site.