Supporting Students Involved in Sports: Clinical Strategies for Pressure, Perfectionism and Prevention
Meghan Miller, PsyD, LP
Program Overview
This presentation offers a comprehensive, evidence-based overview of athlete mental health, designed for psychologists and mental health professionals working across clinical, school, collegiate, and performance settings. Attendees will gain insight into the unique prevalence patterns and psychological outcomes affecting athletes - from youth to elite levels - including risk factors such as identity foreclosure, perfectionism, and high-pressure environments. The session explores empirically supported interventions tailored to athletic populations and highlights prevention strategies to foster mental health across systems, including family, coaching, and organizational levels. The presentation concludes with practical intake questions and assessment considerations to help clinicians identify and support athletes in nuanced and sport-informed ways. Grounded in the latest research and clinical best practices, this session equips attendees with tools to better understand and serve athlete clients.
Objectives
1.Describe current mental health prevalence rates and psychological risk factors in athletic populations across the lifespan.
2.Identify key drivers of mental health conditions in athletes, such as identity foreclosure, perfectionism, stigma, and transition stress.
3.Evaluate evidence-based interventions and integrated care strategies shown to be effective for athletes.
4.Apply preventative strategies and system-level approaches for fostering mental well-being in youth and competitive sport contexts.
5.Integrate targeted intake and assessment questions into clinical practice to better understand the athlete experience and improve care outcomes.
About the Presenter
Meghan Miller, PsyD, LP
Dr. Meghan Miller, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist, earning her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University, Twin Cities Campus, who helps high-performing professionals, leaders, and athletes sustain success without sacrificing their mental health. Her work blends evidence-based psychology with practical tools to navigate stress, achievement, leadership, and identity. A former collegiate athlete and longtime gymnastics coach, Dr. Miller brings deep expertise in the mental health needs of athletes and those who support them. She has over a decade of experience as a clinician and senior leader, including roles such as Vice President of Clinical Operations, Clinical Director, and Training Director. She currently offers virtual therapy through PsyPACT, making her services widely accessible to individuals and organizations. Dr. Miller also consults with teams and organizations to foster healthier performance environments and expand access to mental health support.
The speaker has indicated no conflict of interest.
Additional Information
Credit: This program qualifies for 3.0 CE (continuing education) credits.
Level: Introductory: Assumes post-doctoral education status and limited familiarity with topic.
Audience: Designed for psychologists and other mental health professionals.
ACCESSIBILITY ACCOMMODATIONS: If you need disability-related accommodations to make this event accessible, please contact MPA at [email protected]. You can also indicate your needs on the registration form.
CONFIRMATION/CANCELLATION: You will receive an email confirmation of your registration. You will be notified by mail, e-mail or telephone if your selection is full or cancelled.
REFUND POLICY: A 100% refund will be made if the event is cancelled. Refunds, less than a $5 handling fee, will be given if a written cancellation is received at least two working days before the scheduled program begins. No refund or transfer is given the day of the program.
Continuing Education: The Minnesota Psychological Association is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. The Minnesota Psychological Association maintains responsibility for this program and its content.
The Minnesota Psychological Association cosponsors Friday Forums with the Metropolitan State University Psychology Department.
Download the event flyer PDF.