How to Know You’ve Found the Right Therapist, Coach, or Healthcare Professional
As an athlete, your performance isn’t just about physical training—it’s also about having the right support system. Whether it’s a therapist helping you manage performance anxiety, a coach guiding your training, or a healthcare professional keeping you injury-free, the right person can make all the difference.
So how do you know if you’ve found the one? The kind of professional who truly understands your goals, challenges, and potential?
In this blog, we’ll explore the key qualities that set exceptional therapists, coaches, and healthcare providers apart. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to look for to ensure you’ve hit the jackpot with your support team.
Why the Right Support Matters for Athletes
Think about your last big race, game, or competition. Did you feel fully supported—mentally, physically, and emotionally? Or were there gaps in your preparation or recovery? Having the right professional in your corner can elevate your performance and help you navigate challenges like injuries, burnout, or mental blocks. But not all therapists, coaches, or healthcare providers are created equal.
If you’re unsure where to start, check out our guide on how to find a sport psychologist.
8 Signs You’ve Found a Great Therapist, Coach, or Healthcare Professional
1. They Understand Timing and Pacing
Great professionals know how to “dance” with you—pushing when you need a challenge and pulling back when you need rest.
Example: A coach who adjusts your training plan after noticing signs of overtraining or a therapist who knows when to gently challenge your mental blocks.
Actionable Tip: Look for someone who listens to your feedback and adapts their approach to your needs.
2. They’re Committed to Growth
The best professionals are lifelong learners. They seek out new techniques, challenge themselves, and evolve their methods.
Example: A therapist who integrates the latest sport psychology research into your sessions or a coach who stays updated on cutting-edge training strategies.
Actionable Tip: Ask about their ongoing education or how they stay current in their field.
3. They Build Strong Relationships
Exceptional professionals prioritize trust, respect, and compassion. They make you feel seen, heard, and valued.
Example: A sport psychologist who takes the time to understand your unique goals and concerns, rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution.
Actionable Tip: Pay attention to how they communicate and whether they genuinely care about your well-being.
4. They Balance Art and Science
Great professionals combine evidence-based practices with intuitive understanding. They know when to follow the data and when to trust their instincts.
Example: A coach who uses data from your training logs but also considers how you’re feeling mentally and physically.
Actionable Tip: Look for someone who blends technical expertise with a personalized approach.
5. They Know Themselves
The best professionals are self-aware. They understand their strengths, limitations, and motivations, which allows them to show up authentically for you.
Example: A therapist who acknowledges when they don’t have all the answers but is willing to collaborate or refer you to someone who does.
Actionable Tip: Notice whether they’re open to feedback and willing to admit when they’re wrong.
6. They Prioritize the Relationship
For therapists and coaches, the relationship itself is often the most powerful tool. They focus on building a strong connection with you, rather than just relying on techniques.
Example: A therapist who helps you feel safe enough to explore tough emotions or a coach who celebrates your small wins as much as your big ones.
Actionable Tip: Trust your gut—do you feel comfortable and supported in their presence?
7. They’re Humble
Exceptional professionals don’t see themselves as “masters.” They recognize that growth is a lifelong journey and that failure is part of the process.
Example: A coach who learns from a training plan that didn’t work or a therapist who acknowledges the limits of their role in your progress.
Actionable Tip: Look for someone who’s open to learning and doesn’t pretend to have all the answers.
8. They Have Diverse Experience
The best professionals draw from a wide range of experiences, both personal and professional. This allows them to adapt to your unique needs.
Example: A healthcare provider who has worked with athletes across different sports and understands the nuances of your discipline.
Actionable Tip: Ask about their background and how it informs their approach.
How Performance Psychology Can Help You Spot a Great Fit
Performance psychology principles can guide you in identifying the right professional:
Deliberate Practice: Look for someone who sets clear goals and provides actionable feedback.
Mental Skills Training: A great therapist or coach will help you develop focus, confidence, and emotional regulation.
Learn more about mental strategies for athletes.Recovery Practices: They’ll emphasize the importance of rest and renewal to prevent burnout.
Discover more recovery tips and strategies.
How Skadi’s Providers Embody These Qualities
At Skadi Sport Psychology, our team of experts is dedicated to helping athletes thrive. Here’s how our providers align with these principles:
Dr. Erin Ayala uses mindfulness and acceptance-based strategies to help athletes clarify their values and align their goals with what matters most. She emphasizes rest, self-compassion, and finding joy in sport.
Laurie Miller brings her personal experience as a former gymnast to help athletes overcome perfectionism, mental blocks, and performance anxiety. Her sessions are a mix of support and gentle challenges.
Hannah Silva-Breen focuses on helping athletes thrive through failure, using setbacks as opportunities for growth. She blends sport psychology principles with real-world athletic experience.
Staci Mannella, a former Paralympic athlete, helps athletes explore their identities beyond results, using humor, curiosity, and compassion to tackle challenges like perfectionism and injury recovery.
Learn more about Skadi’s sport psychology services.
Red Flags to Look For
Not every professional will be the right fit. Here are some warning signs:
They dismiss your concerns or goals.
They rely on a one-size-fits-all approach.
They’re unwilling to adapt or learn.
If you notice these red flags, it might be time to explore other options.
Finding the right therapist, coach, or healthcare professional can feel like winning the lottery. When you find someone who aligns with your goals, values, and needs, it can transform your performance and well-being.
Remember, the relationship is a partnership. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, give feedback, and advocate for yourself.
Are you ready to take your performance to the next level? Explore how Skadi’s sport psychology services can help you find the right support for your journey.
