Keegan (2016) has proposed a six-stage model of the sport psychology service delivery process. This model is prescriptive rather than descriptive; it is an ideal which can be used to guide sport psychology consulting behaviours. Whilst the six-stage process outlined in the model is conceptualised as universal (applicable to all sport psychology practice), Keegan notes that iterative cycles, where individual steps are returned to time and again, are often followed. As such, whilst it is recommended that steps 1-6 are completed in sequential order, it is also acknowledged that some steps might need to be repeated due to the dynamic nature of sport psychology consulting.
Step 1: INTAKE
At this stage, the psychologist should take the time to get to know their client (e.g., the client's reasons for seeking help as well as their consultancy expectations) and develop a personal relationship.
Confidentiality expectations, stylistic expectations and professional boundaries should also be established.
Step 2: NEEDS ANALYSIS
The sport psychologist should conduct an appraisal of their client's 'needs' as well as their strengths, weaknesses and ambitions.
This is likely to be achieved primarily through informal and flexible means such as interviews, observations and the practitioner's own knowledge of the sport.
Data collection instruments such as questionnaires, performance profiles and checklists might also be suitable.
Step 3: CASE FORMULATION
The sport psychologist's next step involves drawing on evidenced theory as well as the practitioner's professional experiences to synthesise the thorough needs analysis that has been conducted into a 'working model', which can be used to guide intervention proposals in the future.
It is recommended that the psychologist's estimate of causes, context, explanations, mechanisms and effects/outcomes are included in any case formulation.
Step 4: CHOOSING AN INTERVENTION
Keegan (2016) describes this stage as one of the most important steps in the service delivery process: 'the step where one has a genuine opportunity to help; to make an impact and to prove your worth as a psychologist' (p. 9).
The detailed 'working model' that has been constructed during the previous steps should clearly indicate what type of intervention strategy is required as well as how this intervention and its associated outcomes will be realised.
By investing time and energy in selecting the most suitable intervention strategy, sport psychologists can not only gain a better understanding of how their chosen strategy is likely to address their client's needs, they can also ensure that the strategy is deployed in such a way that can maximise its effectiveness for that particular client.
Step 5: PLANNING THE INTERVENTION
The sport psychologist should ensure that their client has an accurate understanding of exactly what the chosen intervention entails, how it will be implemented, when it will be implemented and the reasons why this intervention in this particular guise was chosen.
It should be outlined how the intervention strategy will be structured and supported so that the client can progress safely towards their goals.
Step 6: DELIVERY AND MONITORING
Finally, the chosen intervention strategy as well as its delivery method and support structures should be frequently monitored and evaluated to enable the sport psychologist to adapt it, where necessary, in line with their client's progress.
References:
Keegan, R. (2016). Being a sport psychologist. Macmillan International Higher Education.
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