top of page
Search
All Posts


Addressing Mental Health Challenges in Sports
Mental health challenges in sports are more common than many realize. As someone deeply invested in helping high-performing individuals like you, I want to share insights and practical advice to support your journey. Whether you’re facing pressure from competition, balancing personal life, or recovering from injury, understanding and addressing mental health is key to sustained peak performance. Let’s explore how you can recognize, manage, and overcome these challenges with w

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
2 hours ago3 min read


Maximizing Your Athletic Potential
Unlocking your full athletic potential is a journey filled with dedication, smart choices, and consistent effort. Whether you’re training for a competition, improving your personal best, or simply striving to be your best self, the right strategies can make all the difference. I’m here to share insights and practical tips that will help you elevate your game and sustain peak performance over time. Understanding Peak Athletic Strategies When we talk about peak athletic strateg

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Jun 34 min read


For Bobby Witt Jr., Committing to the Mental Game is “Simple”
Bobby Witt Jr's Glove, Courtesy of Wilson Blog post written by Rachel Schreibstein, M.Ed Last week, I was watching the Yankees game – as any New York sports fan living in Boston would. They were facing the Kansas City Royals on a rare Monday afternoon game being broadcast by ESPN. It was a relatively low-scoring, slow game, so for the most part, I had it playing in the background while doing other tasks in my apartment and, if I’m being honest with myself, scrolling on my ph

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Jun 23 min read


Building Mental Skills for Athletic Success
When we think about athletic success, physical training often takes center stage. But I’ve learned that the mind plays an equally powerful role. Developing strong mental skills can be the difference between good performance and truly outstanding achievements. It’s not just about talent or strength; it’s about how you prepare your mind to face challenges, stay focused, and bounce back from setbacks. Today, I want to share some insights and practical tips on building athletic m

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
May 294 min read


The Critical Role of Mental Health in Athletics
When we think about athletic success, physical strength, endurance, and skill often come to mind first. But there’s a crucial piece of the puzzle that sometimes gets overlooked: mental health. I want to share with you why mental well-being is just as important as physical training and how nurturing your mind can elevate your performance and overall quality of life. This journey is about embracing both your body and mind, and I’m here to guide you through practical tips and in

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
May 264 min read


Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Loss
Understanding the Weight of Loss: Embracing Growth Through Adversity For many athletes, sport is tied to identity. A loss can lead to more than just disappointment. It often triggers thoughts such as: “Am I still capable?” “What does this say about me?” “Did I let my team down?” “Am I good enough?” In Olivia’s work with athletes, she sees how easily athletic performance can become a measure of self-worth. Sport is not just an activity; it serves as a lens through which athlet

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Dec 10, 20253 min read


Navigating the Winter Rut: Strategies for Athletes and High-Performing Individuals
As the weather gets colder and the days grow shorter, it’s not uncommon for our mood and motivation to dip. The winter months can bring a natural slowdown, both physically and mentally. This often leaves us feeling stuck in a “winter rut.” However, with a few intentional shifts, we can protect our energy, support our mental health, and move through the season with more ease. Below are strategies to help us stay grounded and connected, even when the world outside feels heavy a

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Oct 22, 20253 min read


Finding Your Stride After College Sports
Do you remember the first time you picked up a soccer ball or did your first cartwheel? Or when you truly fell in love with your sport? This passion has likely been a part of your life since elementary or middle school, and now it’s time for a major transition from college sports to life in the workforce. Graduation season is quickly approaching, and college athletes everywhere are feeling uncertain or uneasy about what lies ahead. You’re not alone—these feelings are valid a

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Apr 16, 20253 min read


Conquering Comparison Culture in Sports and Performance
We’ve all experienced it—browsing social media and seeing someone achieve a personal best, land an incredible opportunity, or celebrate a podium finish, radiant with a gold medal. In those moments, your progress might feel less significant, and a voice in your mind might ask, “Why haven’t I gotten there yet?” Feeling the urge to compare yourself to others is entirely normal. However, it can be exhausting and detract from your accomplishments. Here’s how you can regain your pr

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Apr 16, 20252 min read


Navigating Life Changes as a High Achiever
Life changes, like graduating from college, making a significant career shift, or moving to a new city for a fresh opportunity, can feel overwhelming for high achievers. You've likely thrived in settings where you feel in control, succeeding under pressure and reveling in structured environments. However, even the most driven individuals can feel a bit lost when faced with the unpredictability of change. Here are some practical strategies to help you tap into your strengths d

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Apr 16, 20252 min read


Maximizing Your Performance: The Importance of Sleep
When discussing high performance, sleep often needs to be more appreciated. Whether you're an athlete breaking records, a performer captivating crowds, or someone striving for big goals, the time you allocate for rest is just as crucial as the hours spent perfecting your craft. Even the most talented individuals need sufficient sleep to reach their highest potential. Let's explore how making sleep a priority can enhance your performance significantly. Prioritize your rest: Th

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Apr 16, 20252 min read


Strategic Rest is Crucial for Maintaining Long-Term Excellence
The Power of Rest and Recovery for High Performers Elite athletes and top professionals are recognized for their ability to thrive under pressure, consistently performing at their best even in the most demanding circumstances. But there’s a hidden force behind this resilience: rest. For high achievers like you, rest isn’t just downtime; it’s an essential part of your success strategy, fueling your physical strength, cognitive sharpness, and emotional stability. Why Recovery M

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Apr 16, 20253 min read


The Real Numbers on Mental Health and What They Mean for Athletes
“Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.” - Michael Jordan While 23.1% of U.S. adults experienced a mental health issue in 2022, up to 35% of elite athletes report facing mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, burnout, and eating disorders. While prevalence has decreased for student-athletes over the years, nearly 44% of females report experiencing

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Apr 16, 20252 min read


Achieving Mental Well-Being vs. Performance Goals
Self-Care, Athlete Psychology and Growth Mindset If you’re an athlete or someone chasing high-level goals, then you know how easy it is to get caught up in the grind. Whether you’re training for a championship, playing catch-up after a busy schedule, or working towards your individual goals, there’s always that pull to achieve more. Motivation doesn’t cease with (or because of) high expectations, though you can burn out, become exhausted, or become anxious if you’re not caref

Olivia Papakyrikos, M.Ed, LMHC, LPC
Apr 16, 20253 min read
bottom of page