Playing to Win vs. Playing Not to Fail By Dr. Blakely Low-Sampson, Licensed Psychologist & Sport Psychology Specialist The Moment the World Watched I have been a soccer fan my whole life. And as a sport psychologist, I watch the game differently than most. I watch the body language after a miss. I watch how a player talks to himself before a set piece. I watch what happens in the ten seconds after something goes wrong. This World Cup has been a masterclass. I had the chance t

Your swimmer can hit a personal best in practice on Tuesday, then completely unravel behind the blocks on Saturday, and neither of you can quite explain why. Read more about sport psychology for swimmers in Texas.

by Dr. Blakely Low-Sampson In the last few weeks, a “looking back at 2016” trend has been circulating on social media. I decided to widen the lens — not just to 2016, but also to 2006 — and I was reminded of something I see every day in my work with athletes and high performers: Our Identity is Shaped by Our Teams, Our Communities, and the People Who Walk with Us Through Challenge and Growth As I looked through photos from these two pivotal years, I definitely saw important..

Is social media bad for your mental health? A therapist shares a nuanced, Gen Z perspective on social media, anxiety, body image, and balance.

By Lauren Wall Transitioning out of high school or college sports can be an emotional and confusing experience. As a former student-athlete and a therapist who now works with young athletes, I’m often asked what to expect when “life after sports” begins. Returning to my alma mater this year gave me unexpected clarity and a deeper appreciation for what athletes carry with them long after competition ends. Returning to Alumni Weekend Without My Teammates This year’s alumni week

by Dr. Blakely Low-Sampson Building mental resilience is not just a buzzword—it's a vital skill that can transform how we face challenges, setbacks, and pressure. Whether you're pushing your limits on the field, leading a high-stakes project, or navigating the complexities of executive life, resilience is your secret weapon. I want to share with you some effective mental resilience strategies that have helped many reach their highest potential. Mental toughness is something w

Whether you’re feeling excitement, nerves, or a mix of both, the beginning of the school year brings a special kind of energy—a motivation to set goals, try new things, and make this year your own. Learn now to create new habits, set small goals, and ward off burnout in this back-to-school article for teens and college students!

Perfectionism often wears a mask of success. It shows up as dedication, ambition, and high standards. But underneath that, perfectionism can quietly steal your joy, turn minor mistakes into personal failures, lead to burnout, anxiety, or chronic stress, make rest and recovery feel like weakness or being unproductive, and even create identity confusion: Who am I if I’m not achieving? In high performers, perfectionism often flies under the radar because it’s rewarded. You win.