Sport psychology, as an applied aspect of the larger domain of the professional practice of psychology, encompasses principles, procedures, programs, and practices that are utilized by practitioners--- in concert with others --- to enable athletes and their relevant stakeholders to develop and improve themselves. Based on Dr. Charlie Maher's "Framework for the Psychological Development of the Athlete", sport psychology practice occurs at four separate, yet interrelated levels of psychological development.

These levels of development are:

1. The Athlete as a Person---At this level, the athlete is guided in understanding his/her personality, strong points, limitations, and needs, over and above but including their sport. ( VVPs= Values, Vision, Priorities)
   
   
2. The Athlete as a "Coper"--- At this level, the athlete is taught to cope effectively with risk factors that are associated with his/her everyday environment and that can keep the athlete focused and productive or that otherwise can de-rail him/her ( PPTs= People, Places, Things)
   
   
3. The Athlete as a Teammate--- At this level, the athlete learns to coordinate important tasks as a person with those of being a member of an athletic team or other competitive unit ( the WIIFM/WIIFT balance)
   
   
4. The Athlete as a Performer--- At this level, the athlete is assisted in development of mental and emotional skills that will enable him/her to:
• prepare for competition in a quality way so that they are ready to compete, physically and emotionally;
• transfer quality preparation into competition, thereby sustaining an effective level of performance; and
• dealing honestly and objectively with results ( Dr. Charlie Maher's 3 Core Principles and 12 Psychological Domains are the basis for the curriculum at this level)