The field of sports psychology is gaining significant recognition for its pivotal role in enhancing the performance of athletes and helping individuals overcome mental barriers that hinder their success. One of the cornerstones of this profession is the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP), a vital organization that plays a crucial role in promoting the well-being and performance of athletes and individuals in sports and exercise settings. In this article, we will delve into the significance of AASP and its impact on the world of mental performance consulting in Canada.
The Association for Applied Sport Psychology, or AASP, is a non-profit organization founded in 1985. Its primary purpose is to promote the development and implementation of scientific principles and ethical standards in the field of sport and exercise psychology. AASP is dedicated to enhancing the performance and overall well-being of individuals engaged in sports, fitness, and physical activity. Through research, education, and practice, AASP seeks to support athletes and individuals in achieving their full potential.
What is the credential offered by the Association of Applied Sport Psychology?
AASP provides a renowned and esteemed credential, the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) certification. This credential is highly respected in the field of sports psychology and is recognized as the gold standard for professionals aspiring to work with athletes, coaches, and teams to enhance mental performance.
The CMPC certification is a testament to an individual’s proficiency and expertise in the field of sport and exercise psychology. To earn this credential, candidates must meet specific educational and experiential requirements and pass a comprehensive examination. The certification process is rigorous, ensuring that individuals holding the CMPC credential are well-prepared to help athletes and sports professionals optimize their mental performance.
How do I become a mental performance consultant in Canada?
To become a mental performance consultant in Canada, one must follow a structured path that includes both educational and experiential requirements. Here are the key steps to embark on this exciting and rewarding career journey:
- Education: Start by earning a relevant undergraduate degree in psychology, sports psychology, or a related field. Many mental performance consultants hold master’s or doctoral degrees in psychology. It’s essential to build a strong foundation in the psychological principles that underpin athlete performance.
- Gain Experience: Acquire practical experience in the field by working with athletes, teams, or fitness enthusiasts. This can be done through internships, volunteering, or entry-level positions with sports organizations or private coaching practices.
- AASP Membership: Join the Association for Applied Sport Psychology to access valuable resources, networking opportunities, and educational support. Becoming a member will also keep you updated on the latest trends and research in the field.
- CMPC Certification: Consider pursuing the Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) certification offered by AASP. This credential is widely recognized and demonstrates your commitment to professional excellence.
- Continued Education: Stay current with advancements in the field by attending conferences, workshops, and webinars. Continuing education is essential for keeping your skills and knowledge up-to-date.
- Build a Clientele: Establish your practice by working with local sports teams, coaches, or individual athletes. Networking within the sports community can help you connect with potential clients.
- Ethical Practice: Adhere to the ethical guidelines set by AASP, ensuring that you provide quality services and maintain the highest standards of professionalism.
How much does a mental health consultant earn in Canada?
The earnings of a mental performance consultant in Canada can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, location, clientele, and area of specialization. Typically, entry-level consultants may earn around $40,000 to $60,000 annually, while experienced consultants with a substantial client base can earn considerably more. High-demand areas like major cities may offer higher earning potential.
It’s important to note that working as an independent consultant may provide more flexibility and potentially higher earnings compared to salaried positions within sports organizations or universities. Furthermore, specialization in a specific sport or area of performance psychology can also influence earning potential.
How much do mental performance consultants make in Canada?
The income of mental performance consultants in Canada varies widely. Experienced consultants with a well-established client base and a strong reputation in the field can earn six-figure incomes or more. In contrast, those just starting their careers or working in entry-level positions may earn more modest salaries.
The type of clients and organizations you work with can also impact your income. Consultants working with professional sports teams, elite athletes, or high-profile organizations may command higher fees for their services.
Ultimately, the income of a mental performance consultant in Canada depends on a combination of factors, including location, specialization, experience, and the ability to market and grow their practice.
In conclusion, becoming a mental performance consultant in Canada is an exciting and rewarding career path for those interested in the intersection of psychology and sports. AASP and its CMPC certification play a pivotal role in establishing professional standards and promoting excellence in the field. With dedication, education, and practical experience, individuals can embark on this journey, helping athletes and sports enthusiasts optimize their mental performance and achieve their full potential. While income can vary, the potential for success and personal fulfillment in this profession is vast for those who are passionate about it.
For the 12th consecutive year, AASP is offering a distance-learning course fulfilling the required knowledge area, K1: Professional Ethics and Standards of the CMPC Certification requirements. The program, which begins the week of June 12, is specifically geared to examine important ethical and legal issues that sport and performance psychology professionals often encounter in their work as teachers, researchers, and practitioners.
Dr. Brandonn Harris, Program Director and Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at Georgia Southern University and a Certified Mental Performance Consultant® (CMPC), will be the featured instructor. A final online exam will end the course. Tuition for the course is $995. Registration is now closed and will open for 2023 on April 3.
FEATURED TOPICS
- Introduction to ethics
- Who are you? Competence, credentialing and the impaired professional/student
- Multiple relationships/attraction
- Research and teaching
- Diversity issues
- The law and the practice of Applied Sport Psychology
- Psychological assessment and testing
- Financial concerns in practice and business: Marketing your services
- Obligations to clients and protecting sensitive information: Confidentiality and privacy
The source material and textbook for this course is Ethical Issues in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology (Etzel & Watson, 2014).
Please Note: This course is for continuing education and fulfills AASP prerequisites for certification, but is NOT offered for college or graduate credit.
COURSE TIMELINE
- April 3: Registration Opens
- May 15: Deadline for Scholarship Applications
- June 1: Registration Closes
- June 12: Course Begins
- September 8: Online Course End Date (13 weeks)
- September 15: Online Exam Open
- October 1: Online Exam Due
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Students will be able to access online course content at any time once they receive course access instructions.
- Course access instructions will be sent to students prior to the start of the course.
- The course is self-paced.
- The course was built online, so it is neither pre-recorded nor live; all the course material is online for students to read and interact with the instructor and other students.
- The instructor will primarily interact with students via the course platform. He is also available by phone and email on an as-needed basis.
- An online comprehensive exam will be open for an announced, limited period of time.
- Students who pass the exam will be provided with a certificate of completion.
SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
AASP will be offering 3 full scholarships to early career professionals or graduate student members with financial need. Preference will be given to applicants with marginalized and/or intentionally ignored identities in society (BIPOC, LGBTQIA and/or disabled). Deadline for scholarship applications is May 15, 2023.
AASP Distance Course Scholarship Application
ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR
Dr. Brandonn Harris is currently the Program Director and Professor of Sport and Exercise Psychology at Georgia Southern University where he also serves as the Graduate Program Director for the Department of Health Sciences and Kinesiology. He is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC), a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor in Georgia, and is also listed on the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) Sport Psychology Registry.
At Georgia Southern he teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in the areas of ethical issues in sport psychology, psychological aspects of peak performance, sport and exercise psychology interventions, team dynamics in sport, and supervises graduate students’ practica and internships in sport and exercise psychology. He continues to consult and serve numerous professional and collegiate athletes and teams, youth athletes, parents, and coaches on a variety of sport psychology-related topics.
As a researcher, he has conducted and published several book chapters, peer-reviewed publications, and delivered numerous national and international presentations in the areas of professional practice and ethical issues in sport psychology, youth sport, and coach and athlete burnout.
Dr. Harris obtained his bachelor’s degree in exercise science with a sport psychology specialization from Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri. He holds two master’s degrees with one in sport and exercise psychology and the other in counseling, both from West Virginia University. His Ph.D. in sport and exercise psychology was also completed at West Virginia University.
