Applied Sport Psychology in Esports

This chapter focuses on the importance of applied sport psychology and its role in supporting the holistic performance, well-being, and development of esports players and teams. First, the role of sport psychology practitioners, their potential role within esports, and their differentiation from other practitioners within esports are introduced. Next, the chapter explores how these practitioners may work and provides examples of how they guide and support players and teams to navigate the unique demands of esports. To bring this to life, common support strategies (e.g., self-talk) and potential applications (e.g., focus, motivation) are discussed. Furthermore, a team-based communication and feedback intervention is provided. Finally, ideas for finding an appropriate sport psychology practitioner are offered. Key highlights include: 1) Exploration of the role of sport psychology practitioners within esports and how they compare to mental coaches and performance coaches, 2) Insight into how sport psychology can be applied in esports and what to expect as a client, 3) Summary of research-driven strategies to support esports players in overcoming prevalent psychological challenges, and 4) Guidance to help find a sport psychology practitioner.