sport psychology for endurance athletes

we combine mental health and performance strategies to help you build a season you’re proud of

As featured in :

Mission:

to contribute to the health and wellness of athletes via evidence-based research and practice in sport psychology.

Skadi Sport Psychology is a mission-driven practice that conducts research and provides evidence-based mental health therapy, performance sessions, workshops, and online courses for athletes. Founded by Dr. Erin Ayala, a Licensed Psychologist and Certified Mental Performance Consultant, we offer virtual services to adolescent and adult athletes in 42 states across the US. Individual sessions are now available in person in Minneapolis, Minnesota!

Company values:

Health and wellness: Acting in ways that support health and wellness in the long-term, even if it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient in the short-term. I approach my work with clients in a holistic manner, recognizing that daily life, health, and athletic performance are intertwined.

Social justice: Doing what’s in the best interest of ALL athletes, even (and especially) when it’s hard. Giving back to the community. Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion. This also includes fair play and pay in sport. At least five percent of proceeds from Skadi sessions are donated to non-profit organizations working to address racial and gender inequities in sport.

Authenticity: Showing up as our true selves, regardless of the pressure to act otherwise. Willingness to be vulnerable, to take responsibility for mistakes, to be honest with self and others, and to lead with courage.

Curious about the types of athletes we serve?

Here are some of the events, leagues, and teams for which they train and compete:

What our athletes are saying:

“We’ve seen such a difference in her mental attitude and can’t thank you enough for your work with her. I can see the confidence growing in her dramatically.”
“You truly have been a pivotal role in my swimming career. It has always been a dream of mine to go to the NCAAs ever since I could wrap my head around what college swimming was. I give huge thanks to you and your program. You have given me tools I will use for the rest of my life and I am forever grateful.”
“Your lessons were beyond helpful & educational. You’ve made my season more mindful & intentional. Thank you!”
“You played a huge beneficial role on my mental health & recognizing the warning sings of burnout.”
“I have been using the strategy to shake hands with fear before my races and it has helped me in my mile specifically so much!”
“I have loved working with you for the past few years, and I’ve grown so much as a person because of it. I’ve learned the importance of enjoying what I’m doing, and how to attack obstacles with curiosity.”
“I have never felt more welcome or understood. Erin has changed my life for the better.”
“I’ve been through therapists (forced though) and have a sport psychologist at my school I tried going to and in the nicest way, they kind of sucked, did not help me at all. Erin genuinely helps address every issue I have, even if the solution doesn’t work to the extent I hoped it would, she is SO good.”

Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion:

At Skadi Sport Psychology, we're dedicated to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in sport psychology. We understand that advocating for social justice comes in different forms, depending on resources, abilities, and personal paths. As a white cisgender woman, I'm always evolving to better support our mission meaningfully.

We support the International Society of Sport Psychology's emphasis on cultural praxis in sport psychology [1], highlighting the importance of social justice, diversity awareness, and blending research with practice. Our scientist-practitioner model promotes ethical and effective practice, consulting, research, and supervision.

Our commitment to social justice and DEI work is reflected via the following actions:

Each month, 5% of proceeds from individual sessions are donated to 501(c)(3) organizations.
We provide one pro-bono workshop per month for organizations addressing gender and racial inequities in sport.
Our practice conducts empirical research focusing on gender, microaggressions, trans athletes, and DEI in sport.
We have contributed to amicus curiae briefs to support trans athletes in sport.
When bandwidth and budget allow, we sponsor and support races, teams, and organizations.
BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and para athletes are prioritized on our waitlist.
We provide internships and pro bono mentorship to CMPC mentees from historically excluded backgrounds in the field of sport psychology.

Proud supporter of the following organizations: