A sport and exercise psychologist works with either recreational or professional athletes (sport) to help promote an environment where the athlete can flourish and either improve one’s performance and/or maintain a high level of performance, or with health promotion initiatives (exercise) to help people in behaviour change programmes such as start engaging in healthier lifestyles (physical activity and nutrition) or increase motivation to commit to their healthy lifestyle. In order to obtain the title of a Sport and Exercise Psychologist a specialised masters degree, and a minimum of 2 years supervised work experience in the sport and exercise fields are required.
A performance psychologist title is not protected by any governing body and can therefore be used by anyone with a Masters degree level in the field and without the need of 2 years supervised practice. However, one needs to be qualified in performance psychology to be able to deal with other performance areas like performing arts, business, military, medical, politics, among others.
Dr Bernice Sant is qualified in both areas with an additional Doctorate level of education in Sport and Exercise Psychology and with both UK (Health Care Professional Council -HCPC) and Maltese (Malta Psychologists Profession Board) ‘psychologist’ accreditation. This is why she is referred to as a Sport and Exercise Psychologist and a Performance Psychologist.