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Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. 
We are all the same in this notion. 
The potential for greatness
Lives within each of us.  

~Wilma Rudolf,  Olympic Gold Medalist 

Passionate About Inspiring H.O.P.E.

The development of my approach to sport psychology consulting, called the Holistic Opportunity for Performance/Personal Excellence (H.O.P.E.) Model, has been greatly influenced by my education, training, and work as a counseling psychologist, education and mentorship in sport psychology, and my athletic and personal experiences.

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According to the H.O.P.E. Model, there is an opportunity for performance and personal excellence when a person executes intentional and values-based actions (Committed Action), while fully engaged in the present moment (Present) and adapting to the demands of the situation (Flexible). A person’s opportunity for performance and personal excellence may be influenced (supported or hindered) by various relationships (e.g., team, coach, consulting relationship, friends, family), as well as the various systems and sociocultural contexts (e.g., culture, cultural beliefs, expectations, history, zeitgeist) in which they participate.

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Guiding Principles of the H.O.P.E. Model


Excellence is on-going and individualized. Excellence is both a destination (goal) and a way of being (value). People define what excellence means to them; what it looks like and feels like. 

 

People have different needs, desires, roles, and neurology as they develop throughout their life. All of the above factors, in addition to the influence of sociocultural factors and relationships, change over time and may elicit differing strengths, challenges, or motivations for excellence.

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Discomfort is a part of being human and being an athlete. Humans are programmed to avoid discomfort, and we can get really creative in how we do that due to the dynamic relationship between thoughts, feelings, and actions. When we avoid, we get in our own way and are unable to learn our true capabilities and resilience. In order to have an opportunity for performance excellence, a person must build awareness of, accept, and respond effectively to thoughts, feelings, and avoidance tactics that undermine performance excellence both on and off the field. 

 

Humans are multifaceted social beings, who live in relationship to others, and cannot be separated from their various contexts. (Sport experience does not occur in a vacuum!) Sport is one of many contexts in which a person lives, participates, impacts and by which they are impacted. A number of lessons and skills can be taught and learned in the context of sport, which promote excellence and buffer against adversity in other facets of life (academics, relationships, career, work, society, etc.)

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Every experience is a gift and opportunity for learning and growth, especially failures. Because talents and skills can be developed and refined, failures are encouraged and embraced as sources for feedback, so adjustments can occur 

Dr. Swanlund's Education, Credentials & Background

 

  • Psy.D. in Counseling Psychology from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota (APA-Accredited Program)

  • Licensed Psychologist in Washington State

  • Credentialed as a Health Service Psychologist by the National Register of Health Service Psychologists

  • Certified Mental Performance Consultant® (CMPC)

  • Former NCAA D-III Golfer - College of Saint Benedict, Minnesota

  • Former Assistant Coach, High School Girls Golf Team - Mounds View High School, Minnesota

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