Mental Performance Coaching · Pickleball
Where clinical psychology meets competitive sport. Resources and guidance for athletes who want to perform — and feel whole doing it.
"Performing under pressure isn't a personality trait. It's a skill — and you can train it."
Amanda Sovik-Johnston, Ph.D.
About
I'm Amanda Sovik-Johnston — a licensed clinical psychologist, founder of Active & Connected Family Therapy, and a 4.0+ competitive pickleball player.
The Connected Competitor is my coaching practice — focused, forward-moving work on the mental skills that separate good players from great ones. Pressure management, competitive identity, partner dynamics, and the mindset patterns that show up at 9–9 in the third.
My clinical background shapes how I think and how I coach. But this work lives on the court, not in the therapy room. If you or someone you know needs clinical support, our team at A&C is there for that.
Coaching is distinct from psychotherapy. For clinical mental health services, visit Active & Connected Family Therapy.
What I Offer
Practical mental skills work for serious recreational and competitive players — the people who care as much about how they compete as whether they win.
Focused skill-building for 4.0–5.0 players: mindset, pressure response, competitive identity, and the relational dynamics that make or break a partnership.
Explore →My group practice with 70+ clinicians across 10 locations in Virginia and North Carolina. Individual, couples, and family therapy.
Visit the Practice →I speak to pickleball communities, clubs, and sport organizations on mental performance, competitive identity, and the psychology of improvement.
Get in Touch →Resources
Our group practice — find a therapist, learn about our services, or refer a client across VA and NC.
Catch my episode on the mental game, identity, and what psychology really teaches us about competitive play.
A conversational AI mental performance coach for 4.0–5.0 DUPR players. Currently in development.
Articles, insights, and mental performance tips.
Speaking inquiries, workshop bookings, and collaboration opportunities. Reach out directly.