Z - Sports Psychologist in MLS - Eris

A fun fact about being a Sports Psychologist in MLS is that your job often goes beyond the field and into cultural acclimation.

Creative & Visual Skills
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Critical Thinking & Judgement
Emotional Intelligence & Personal Traits
Professional & Technical Knowledge
Organizational & Operational Skills
Physical & Situational Readiness

Where does this job happen?

This job primarily happens within the Major League Soccer club environment. This includes training facilities, where they'll be present at team training sessions, observing players, and conducting individual

What do they actually do?

Sports psychologists in MLS engage in a variety of activities. They conduct Individual Consultations, meeting one-on-one with players to address specific mental skills (e.g., focus, confidence, visualization, goal setting

What kind of person does this?

To be a sports psychologist in MLS, individuals typically need Advanced Degrees, such as a master's or, more commonly, a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) in clinical, counseling, or sport psychology.

What skills do you need?

Beyond the educational and personal traits mentioned above, key skills include Counseling and Intervention Skills (applying various therapeutic approaches to address mental health concerns and performance issues), Mental Skills Training Expertise (proficiency in teaching techniques like visualization, self-talk, goal-setting, attention control, and arousal regulation), Assessment and Evaluation (ability to assess psychological states and track the effectiveness of interventions), and an Understanding of Physiology and Biomechanics

How much money can you make?

 for sports psychologists in general, the average annual salary is around $70,000 - $100,000+. Top earners, such as those with professional teams, can make over $100,000 to well over $150,000 per year, especially for highly experienced professionals in full-time roles with top-tier organizations.