In this episode of Blacklight On Sports, Charles Hallman and Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald sit down with Dr. Kirbi Kidd, Psy.D., a sport psychologist with a deep understanding of the mental challenges and triumphs faced by athletes at all levels.
Dr. Kidd brings both academic expertise and lived experience to the conversation. A former collegiate basketball player turned sport psychologist, she shares how her athletic background informs her clinical work today—blending compassion, cultural awareness, and practical tools to help athletes develop the skills they need to thrive under pressure.
Her insights offer an invaluable look into:
- The psychological toll of competition
- How athletes can build resilience and confidence
- Common mental blocks and how to overcome them
- Why trust and rapport matter in sport psychology
- The importance of culturally competent care for athletes of color
Dr. Kidd earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Sport Studies from Mount Holyoke College, followed by a master’s in Athletic Counseling and a doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Springfield College. She now supports athletes through a collaborative and customized approach tailored to their performance and personal goals.
Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or simply a fan of the mental side of sports, this conversation will deepen your appreciation for the emotional and psychological layers behind athletic excellence.
Contact Dr. Kidd
📧 Contact Dr. Kirbi Kidd
🌐 MIER Sports Psychology
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