Our Performance Psychology Approach

We know how intense it is to
consistently perform under pressure

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In competitive performance environments, individuals are exposed to intense stressors, as their performances have considerable consequences on their careers (for example, role selection, sponsorship, casting and progression). When performances are unsatisfactory, they are likely to face external criticism from a coach, the media, social media, fans, team members and even parents…. What is consistent about these types of environments is that individuals will always experience setbacks and disappointment. The combination of increased exposure to stress, pressure on performance and external judgments means that high-performing individuals are vulnerable to getting stuck in anxious, unhelpful and self-critical mindsets.

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Our approach

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At Compassionate Power performance we offer a unique approach that combines compassionate mind training (CMT) with evidence-based sport psychology strategies to help clients, improve mental performance by overcoming self-criticism, building resilience and controlling unwanted thoughts, feelings and physical tension. CMT is a clinically proven approach that is incredibly effective in challenging unhelpful patterns of functioning. Our proven interventions have helped individuals to improve their mental performance and overall well-being.

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Performance Psychology Coach

Who I am

Jessica O’Kelly - Performance Psychology Consultant

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Before training as a Sport and Performance Psychologist, I started my professional career in 2016 working in forensic and Child and Adolescent Mental health services delivering psychological support to challenge maladaptive functioning and empowering clients to reach their goals.

My unique journey has shaped my practice where my experience has provided me with a sophisticated skill set and psychological grounding to identify and challenge maladaptive thinking and behaviour in a range of clients.

Applying these skills in athletic and high-performance settings has created a unique and highly effective approach. I empower my clients to develop sustainable cycles of functioning to optimise performance and enhance well-being.

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    • MSc Sport and Exercise Psychology - University of Greenwich

    • PGDip Educational Mental Health Practice - Kings College London

    • BSc Psychology - University of Bristol

    • QSEP (BPS) training - Supervised by Qualified Sport Psychologist (HCPC)

    • Low intensity CBT - (PGDip Kings College London)

    • Intro to Theory & Practice of CFT -(Compassionate Mind Foundation)

    • Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) - British Psychology Society (BPS)

    • Member of the Division of Sport and Exercise Psychology (DSEP) - BPS

    • Health Care Professions Council (HCPC) - working towards registration

    • Engaging Young People - embedding adaptive cycles of functioning early

    • Engaging clients with low self esteem, motivation or confidence

    • Empowering clients who face discrimination in their performance environment

    • Working with neurodiverse clients to develop awareness and to optimise functioning

Client testimonials

  • Team GB Squad Padel Tennis Player

    Through my sessions with jess, I have started to enjoy playing competitive sport again - something I have not been able to do for a long time! I have developed my awareness of self critical thoughts and how they impact my nerves and the way in which I think and play during competitive sport. Jess has provided the space and insight for me to begin to understand where these thoughts might come from. I have learnt to be more compassionate to myself and how to effectively manage my emotions under pressurised situations. This has had a huge impact on my ability to perform when things are close. Jess is warm, honest and insightful - thank you for helping me enjoy playing again.

  • Personal Publicist

    I am very grateful to Jess for introducing me to the concept of “compassionate power”. Our sessions together have taught me a newfound sense of confidence, ability to regulate my emotions and a wider understanding of the way the mind works which has helped me thrive in high-pressure situations with high-profile clients at work, as well as in triggering situations in my personal life. Jess has a deep understanding of the human psyche which clearly comes to her naturally and is buoyed by her extensive and impressive background in psychology.

  • Advanced Golfer

    Since working with Jess, I have been intentionally trying to incorporate a positive mindset into my play and practice. I am better at noticing when there is tension and when this happens using mental skills to move through this effectively. I have learnt to be more compassionate to myself when I make errors, especially during putting – which makes a huge impact and takes off so much pressure. My play continues to improve and I’m way more consistent.

  • Parliamentary Candidate

    Jess helped to develop my skills to manage my emotions during intense public-speaking events and situations. She developed my awareness of how my nerves can impact me and helped me to develop strategies to overcome these. Our work improved my confidence and composure when I need it most. She was warm, knowledgeable, and always available when I needed her. Highly recommend!

  • Male Club Cricketer

    In the sport psychology sessions, we worked on my concentration whilst batting, as I kept getting out after 20 runs. This helped me to maintain my focus on helpful things rather than focusing on the score. My runs improved and my reading of the game became more impactful, like picking the right time to push on or stay in. I look forward to building on this more next season. Thanks Jess.

  • Female Club Golfer

    Jessica carried out an extremely thorough assessment and I felt she had understood clearly my situation in order for us to work together and be in a position to help me.