Sports Psychologist
OFO No: 263406
What is a Sports Psychologist?
Basically, the psychology of sport involves the study of how psychological factors affect performance in sport.
A Sports Psychologist is a licensed mental health professional. They work with athletes from all sport disciplines, age groups and skill levels. They identify the team’s or individual’s challenges, work through difficult times and set goals.
They assist athletes and coaches and sometimes parents too, with regard to injury and rehabilitation, team building, and career moves.
Many professional teams and sports stars hire Sport Psychologists to provide full-time assistance.
They might even travel extensively with the team or player.
Sports Psychologists use many established methods and specialized techniques tailored to help the players.
Most Sports Psychologists work in private practice. Some are employed by sports organizations and/or teams.
What does a Sports Psychologist do?
- meets with athletes, coaches and team members
- identifies the relevant issues
- sets goals
- assists players, teams etc to conquer their ‘demons’
- provides counselling through questions and other tested techniques
- recognises underlying reasons for poor play or a change in attitude
- improves player’s mental focus
- travels with players and/or teams
Are you … ?
- interested in psychology?
- passionate about sport?
- caring and empathic?
- understanding?
- a good listener?
- a problem solver?
- willing to travel?
- available all the time?
- confident?
- emotionally stable and mature?
How do I become a Sports Psychologist?
There are three main paths:
PATH 1
You may start by becoming a registered Clinical Psychologist: CLICK HERE
Honours in Biokinetics
- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- University of Cape Town
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Western Cape
- University of Zululand
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
PATH 2
Bachelor degree with a major in Psychology which can be done at most SA universities
Honours in Psychology
6 month internship under the guidance of a registered psychologist
National Examination of the Professional Board for Psychology (Counsellor)
Designation: Only once you have registered with the HPCSA may you use the title Professional Sports Psychologist
PATH 3
Bachelor of Psychology degree in Sports Psychology
- Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
- University of Johannesburg
- University of KZN
- University of Pretoria
- University of Stellenbsoch
- University of Venda
- University of the Western Cape
- Walter Sisulu University
6 month internship in sports counselling under a registered sports psychologist
National Examination of the Professional Board for Psychology (Counsellor)
Designation: Only once you have registered with the HPCSA may you use the title Professional Sports Counsellor
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
- HPCSA: HEALTH PROFESSIONALS COUNCIL OF SA
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Sports Trainer or Sports Agent
Is becoming a Sports Psychologist the right career choice for me?
