About Olivia
Sport and exercise have always been a part of my life. My earliest memories of sport include running with my dad around the village I grew up in, running the Race for Life with my sister and supporting my family as they competed in events. More recently, my running adventures have lead me to the crazy world of endurance running and ultra-marathons. Whether it be through participating or supporting others, sport and exercise have added, and continue to add, something incredibly valuable to my life.
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I believe in providing athletes with the space, and time to talk and feel heard. I adopt a collaborative, compassionate approach to practice that enables individuals to challenge themselves to become the kind of athlete, and person, they want to be. I appreciate the courage it can take to reach out for support; I provide a space whereby you will feel supported and empowered to succeed, whatever that means for you. Opening up, talking about and reflecting on our struggles is difficult, but it's made easier when you work with a psychologist that makes you feel heard, and importantly, not judged.
I work with a variety of sports from recreational to elite level. Currently, I work with Loughborough Lightning Wheelchair Basketball, England Touch Rugby and the England Athletics and Cricket Youth Talent Programme. My work involves working collaboratively with coaches and sport science practitioners as well as delivering 1-1 athlete support. I also work with a variety of individual clients from sports including football, dance, rugby and endurance running.
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy guides my approach to work. Grounded in evidence-based practice, I will help you to learn to work with your brain, not against it. By redefining this relationship with your brain, you can enhance your overall experience, and performance, in sport and exercise.
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Why 'Living Sport Psychology'?
For me, sport and exercise psychology doesn't start and end with the time spent performing on game/ match/ race/ competition day. Learning about YOU, your behaviour and how your brain works has benefits for, and beyond performance time. The valuable skill of working with your brain is one that you can take with you through life as well as sport. I am proud to be an advocate for sport and exercise psychology as I've seen the positive impact it can have on people's lives.
Education
2022-Present
Sport & Exercise Psychologist (in-training) on Sport and Exercise Psychology Accreditation Route (SEPAR) with British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences (BASES). Supervised practice towards HCPC registration.
2021-2022
2017-2021
Masters Degree in Sport and Exercise Psychology from Loughborough University.
Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Loughborough University.
Diploma in Professional Studies
Fairness
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To me, fairness is about creating a space whereby you feel heard, understood and respected. Each person is unique; I tailor my approach to suit you, ensuring that you receive the support that you deserve.
Openness
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To me, openness is the foundation of trust. I strive to create a space where you, and I, feel comfortable sharing without fear of judgment. Openness ensures that we can make meaningful progress towards what's important to you.
Nurturing
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Just like a plant needs water, every person needs a little bit of care. I provide a compassionate and caring environment that encourages personal and athletic growth. This means being patient, understanding your needs and celebrating progress.
Collaboration
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I believe that the best outcomes are achieved by working together. Sport psychology is not something that is 'done to' you, it's a vehicle for your development, and your voice, experiences and perspective are paramount in that journey.
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