SPORTS

COUNSELING

Mindfulness-Based Sports Counseling for Young Athletes

35% of athletes suffer from burnout, disordered eating, anxiety, and/or depression.

Building mental resilience through sport psychology can boost athletes' confidence by 65%.

A 2020 study found that psychological skills training and mindfulness led to performance improvements in athletes, and specifically helped in areas of emotional regulation and attention/focus.

My name is Neil Place, and I’m a Sports Counselor.

Sports come with pressure, emotion, and constant change—challenges that don’t always get talked about. Whether it’s stress, low confidence, performance anxiety, or trouble staying focused, every athlete faces mental and emotional hurdles.

I work with young athletes to build the skills and awareness they need to meet those moments with confidence. Using a blend of mindfulness, mental skills training, and honest reflection, I help athletes develop resilience, emotional regulation, and a stronger sense of self—on and off the field.

This work isn’t just about winning—it’s about helping athletes grow into grounded, self-aware people who know how to meet challenges with clarity and purpose.

For parents, this means giving your athlete a space that supports their mental health and development as a whole person. For athletes, it means having someone in your corner who listens, challenges you, and helps you grow from the inside out.

Let’s get started.

My mission is to empower young athletes to thrive in sports and life by integrating mindfulness practices and values-based coaching, fostering holistic development and resilience.

Athlete

Struggling with stress? Lack of focus? Anxiety? Confidence? Anger? Lack of motivation? Injury?

These things can be uncomfortable, and you may not be getting the most out of your sport because of them.

I guarantee that by doing this work, you will develop a more resilient mindset to navigate these inevitable aspects of sport and life. Sign up for your free consultation today.

Parent

You want to the best for your kid, and it can help to be able to have a third party provide counsel.

I want the best for your kid and for you. I’ll provide the space and guidance to explore any aspect on the mental side of performance that they may need.

Coach

As the coach, you’re already the team sport psychologist. I just want to make you a great one.

Whether it’s consultation, support, team workshops, leadership counseling, or season-long programming, contact me today to see what we can do for your team.

Not Sure Where to Begin?

Start with these free infographics for an introduction into Sport Psychology concepts:

Testimonials

  • “Oreka reminds you it’s about you every step of the way. Nothing is forced, it’s all coming from you and for you. Oreka just teaches you to channel it and shows you better ways. I’m not even close to done and this is still the best I’ve ever felt for myself.”

  • “Working with Neil and Oreka Fitness provided a great experience by providing me with strategies and skills to improve my mental performance. Through this experience, I was able to grow both as a competitor and a leader within my team. The time I have spent with Oreka has given me confidence in my future performances in and out of my sport.”

  • “From making the most of my training time, to performing at my best on the big days, Oreka Fitness has really been a huge help. Having spent most of my time physically training, spending time focusing on the mental side of sport has brought big returns. The part I’m most grateful for is Neil’s flexibility and calming presence when the perfectly laid training schedule doesn’t go according to plan.”

  • “Neil is a fantastic fitness coach. I have spoken to him many times about improving mental and physical fitness. I always come away with practical methods to implement and greater confidence in myself. Highly recommend.”

  • "Neil is incredible! Such a wealth of knowledge in sports and mental skills. Has such a passion to help others work toward and achieve their goals."

  • "Neil is an amazing human being who loves helping others reach their goals. His program is incredibly helpful and changed the way I approach things."

  • "Neil's coaching and guidance have allowed me to break past limiting beliefs and barriers in record time, and it has been a joy to continue to employ his skills."

Current & Previous Clients