Although most commonly discussed among athletes, peak performance is relevant to many varied activities, from public speaking and acting to speaking in front of a crowd. From performers to artists, businesspeople, and other people in high-pressure careers, issues surrounding performance can affect anyone. Achieving peak performance is similar to what some refer to as a “flow,” feeling immersed in a challenging but rewarding activity.
Similar to how an athlete might work with a workout instructor, physical therapist, or chiropractor to achieve physical wellness, people looking to achieve peak performance also work with therapists to perform their best.
Who might benefit from peak performance therapy?
You don’t need to experience performance anxiety, self-esteem issues, or performance-related issues to benefit from therapy. In fact, anyone looking to improve their performance might benefit from therapy for peak performance.
Some types of individuals who might benefit from peak performance therapy include:
- Athletes
- Actors
- Comedians
- Musicians
- Public speakers
- Managers
- Doctors
- Lawyers
In particular, athletes who have experienced an injury while performing can benefit from a combination of talk therapy and physical therapy. In peak performance physical therapy, you’ll be able to work with a trainer to restore your strength, mobility, balance, and flexibility. To find a physical therapist, you might ask your primary care doctor for a referral or search through your insurance database for in-network providers.
Depending on the specific injury, you might work with a chiropractor, physical therapist (PT), or workout instructor to help you get back into shape. A physical therapist uses functional massages, preventive sports training, maintenance programs, and other tools to help you regain strength. Meanwhile, talk therapy can help you overcome traumatic memories and difficult emotions to start performing—and feeling—your best.
Find a Therapist to Help With Achieving Peak Performance
Get personalized matchesWhat kinds of issues can therapy for peak performance address?
Both physical therapy and talk therapy can help address issues related to performance. Everyone’s specific needs and situations are different, but some issues that therapy can help address include:
- Performance anxiety. Performance anxiety, or stage fright, is a common form of anxiety. If you can’t manage a workout at the gym in front of other people or struggle under the spotlight, peak performance therapy can help you overcome your anxiety.
- Self-esteem issues. It can feel impossible to perform your best when you feel like you’re not good enough. Therapy is a great place to gain confidence, feel more comfortable with yourself, and achieve the excellent results you’re capable of.
- Problems associated with focus. It might feel challenging to maintain focus under pressure, especially if you’ve been diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Therapy for peak performance can help you focus your attention on what’s important.
- Building positive habits. Sometimes, achieving excellent results requires building healthy habits around sleep, eating, exercising, and self-care. Your therapist can help you identify areas that might need improvement and provide excellent advice to help you work toward mental and physical wellness.
- Overcoming past challenges. If you’ve experienced failure or trauma around the activities, you’re performing, achieving peak performance can feel like a daunting task. Therapy can help you process difficult situations and move on.
Therapy for Peak Performance
Several types of therapy can help address issues associated with peak performance, and the kind of therapy you choose will depend on your specific needs and issues. In some cases, your therapist might work alongside your physical therapist to develop the best treatment plan for your situation.
During your first appointment, you’ll be able to discuss your specific issues with your therapist to decide the best treatment plan moving forward. Some helpful therapeutic approaches for peak performance include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness practices
- Psychodynamic therapy
- Holistic therapy
To find a therapist, reach out to a mental health provider through WithTherapy. We’ll connect you to someone you feel comfortable with, regardless of your personal preferences and requirements. At your first visit, one of our licensed therapists will help you navigate your mental health and develop a treatment plan to work toward peak performance.
Find a Therapist to Help With Achieving Peak Performance
