MULTIDISCIPLINARY WORK

Collaboration with coaches, physiotherapists and doctors

The sports psychologist is not an island; his effectiveness depends on his ability to integrate into the team's ecosystem.

Close collaboration with the coach, physical trainer, physiotherapist and physician is essential to deliver a consistent message to the athlete.

The psychologist must often act as a communication bridge or a translator of needs between the player and the rest of the staff.

For example, if a nutritionist is frustrated that a player is not following the diet, the psychologist can intervene not to "hose" the player, but to identify behavioral barriers (anxiety, lack of organization) that prevent adherence.

Working together, the nutritionist adjusts the plan and the psychologist works on habit management.

Similarly, during a rehabilitation, the psychologist and physiotherapist must align their language: if the physio says "the knee is stable" and the psychologist reinforces "confidence in stability", the athlete's overall recovery is accelerated.

Respecting professional boundaries

In multidisciplinary work, clarity of roles is vital to avoid conflicts and confusion.

The psychologist must respect the coaches' technical area and the doctors' medical area, as well as demand respect for his or her area of mental specialization.

Crossing these lines (e.g., a psychologist giving tactical advice or a coach doing unqualified "therapy") erodes professional trust.

A common boundary conflict scenario occurs when a coach attempts to diagnose mental health issues ("this guy is depressed") or when a psychologist opines on physical training load. Professional conduct involves referral and consultation.

If a psychologist notices that an athlete is excessively fatigued, he should not change the training himself, but communicate his observation to the physical trainer so that the trainer can adjust the loads based on his expert judgment. Maintaining these limits protects the athlete from receiving conflicting instructions.

Summary

The psychologist must be integrated in