Abstract
This thesis documents the journey of a trainee sport and exercise psychologist from October 2017 to September 2024 while completing the Professional Doctorate in Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Portsmouth. The thesis outlines the author’s work across consultancy, reflective practice, and research, demonstrating the competencies required for registration as a Practitioner Psychologist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Central to this submission is a reflective diary that captures key experiences influencing the author’s professional growth, ranging from specific consultancy interventions with athletes to broader reflections on the realities of working within a World Class Program.The author presents four consultancy case studies that span individual and dyadic work, addressing themes such as practitioner philosophy development, shared mental models in athlete dyads, managing coach-athlete conflict, and the application of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Two empirical chapters are also included; a systematic review exploring the use of the term ‘toxic’ in relation to environments, and a qualitative exploration of inappropriate behaviors in sport, a novel area in sport psychology with practical and theoretical implications. In the final chapter, the author offers a reflective epilogue, providing
a personal perspective on their professional journey throughout this programme of work. The appendix includes a log of hours which serves as a record of the author’s practice and training experiences over the past seven years.
| Date of Award | 15 Jan 2025 |
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| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Chris Wagstaff (Supervisor) & Daniel Brown (Supervisor) |