Patrick Cohn

Dr. Patrick Cohn is an expert mental performance coach who has helped athletes for over 30 years enhance their performance. Dr. Cohn earned a master's degree in sports psychology from CSUF and a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia, specializing in Applied Sports Psychology.

Taking Responsibility to Turn Your Game Around

Taking Responsibility to Turn Your Game Around

Do You Always Have Bad Luck in Sports? Summary: Perceived bad luck often becomes a self-fulfilling cycle for athletes. Instead of blaming circumstances, taking responsibility for performance and focusing on strengths allows athletes to regain control. Preparation for challenges and redirecting negative self-talk toward actionable steps helps turn setbacks into opportunities. Do you feel you … Sport Psychology Article>>

What is Mental Game Coaching?

Video of The Week

Mental Coaching Programs For Athletes In “Sports Psychology Sessions with Doc,” Dr. Patrick Cohn answers sports psychology questions from athletes, parents and coaches. Visit Sports Psychology for Athletes at Peaksports.com and click on contact us to submit your mental game questions for Dr. Cohn to answer in his mental game videocast or podcast. Are you … Sport Psychology Article>>

How to Turn Mistakes Into Success

How to Manage Mistakes

Turning Athletic Failure Into Growth Summary: How an athlete responds to failure shapes future performance. Viewing mistakes as learning opportunities and focusing on improvement allows setbacks to fuel growth rather than discourage effort. Studying successful athletes and modeling their techniques helps refine skills. A positive mindset toward failure turns past losses into motivation for long-term … Sport Psychology Article>>

How to Visualize Your Upcoming Performance

How to Visualize Your Upcoming Performance

One Method to Be Mentally Prepared Summary: Anxiety before competition often stems from uncertainty about the event. Visualization helps athletes mentally rehearse every aspect of performance, from arrival to warm-up to execution, reducing stress and building confidence. Immersing all senses in the mental rehearsal strengthens focus and trust in skills. Accepting that real performance may … Sport Psychology Article>>

What’s the Best Program for My Young Athlete?

Sport Psychology for Young Athletes

Mental Training Programs For Young Athletes Summary: Young athletes often struggle with confidence, focus, and mental toughness, which can lead to underperformance in games. Common challenges include fear of failure, perfectionism, frustration, distraction, and negative self-talk. Targeted mental training can help children build confidence, maintain focus during competition, and manage emotions effectively. A sports mom … Sport Psychology Article>>

How to Avoid The Need For Social Approval

How to Avoid The Need For Social Approval

Do You Worry About What Others Think? Summary: Athletes often feel pressure to prove themselves to coaches, teammates, parents, and fans, seeking validation from others. This focus on external approval can create tension, anxiety, and decreased performance. True mental strength comes from shifting focus inward—playing for yourself, valuing the process over results, and building self-respect. … Sport Psychology Article>>