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.

How to Minimize Game Time Pressure

Minimizing Pressure in Sports

How Kyrie Irving Copes With Pressure Summary: Excessive pressure often stems from athletes internalizing the expectations of parents, coaches, or teammates. Performance anxiety spikes when athletes fixate on outcomes rather than the game itself. By approaching every competition as “just another game,” focusing on unchanged aspects of the sport, and concentrating on the process rather … Sport Psychology Article>>

Staying Confident and Ready When Benched

How Athletes Can Cope With Getting Benched Summary: Being benched can be a difficult and emotional experience for athletes, but it also presents a valuable opportunity for growth. Instead of dwelling on frustration or embarrassment, athletes can use this time to observe teammates, learn from mistakes, stay mentally prepared, and strengthen mental toughness. “BENCHED! I … Sport Psychology Article>>

What Should Sports Parents NOT Do?

Young Athlete Mental Game

Five Ways Sports Parents Hurt Athletes’ Mental Game Summary: Parents play a critical role in shaping their young athlete’s mental game. Overemphasis on mistakes, scores, trophies, or future achievements can unintentionally create pressure, reduce confidence, and harm enjoyment of sports. Sports parents can negligently undermine their kids’ mental game. You might not be aware of … Sport Psychology Article>>

Using Adversity to Improve Mental Toughness

Adversity to Improve Mental Toughness

Mental Toughness Helps Athletes Cope with Adversity Summary: Mental toughness is a skill that can be developed, not just an innate trait. Athletes who actively work on their mindset are better equipped to handle adversity, perform under pressure, and enjoy competing. By reflecting on past challenges, anticipating difficult situations, and consistently training the mental game, … Sport Psychology Article>>

Don’t Get Distracted by Things You Cannot Control

Focus in Sports

How to Focus on What You Can Control Summary: Athletes often struggle when they focus on uncontrollable aspects of their sport, such as referee calls, injuries, or weather. This distraction can create negative emotions, reduce performance, and take attention away from the present moment. There are so many things outside your direct control in sports. … Sport Psychology Article>>

Maintaining Confidence After a Bad Performance

Bouncing Back From a Bad Performance

How This Pro Bounces Back From a Bad Game Summary: Every athlete experiences bad performances, regardless of talent or experience. While you cannot change the past, you can control how you respond. By focusing on controllable factors, learning from mistakes, maintaining confidence in your strengths, and preparing for the next competition, athletes can bounce back … Sport Psychology Article>>