Leah Purvis
Doctoral Intern - Sport Psychology, 2026-27
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
What I do
I am passionate about working with student-athletes who are interested in exploring sports psychology and mental performance. As a former collegiate and professional athlete, I believe that nothing exists in a vacuum, and that our experiences both within and outside of athletics shape who we are. Whether you are navigating team dynamics, looking to strengthen the mental side of your performance, recovering from an injury, or exploring your identity in and outside of athletics, I am here to support you.
Beyond my work with athletes, I enjoy working with clients who identify as part of the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and Jewish communities. As a clinician, I take an integrative approach to therapy, grounded in multicultural and social justice frameworks. I strive to create a collaborative, affirming space where clients feel supported, understood, and empowered to explore their experiences and work toward the changes they hope to make.
Professional Biography
Throughout my athletic career, I often found myself seeking mental health resources outside of my team and organization. When those resources were not readily available, I naturally stepped into a supportive role for those around me. These experiences ultimately shaped my passion for psychology and my commitment to supporting student-athletes and individuals navigating the unique demands of collegiate life.
My favorite part of being a sports psychologist is the opportunity to be a visible and supportive representative for student-athletes who may find themselves in a place similar to where I once was. My experience as a collegiate athlete gives me a deep understanding of sport culture and the many pressures that can accompany being a student-athlete. I value the opportunity to advocate for students, offer new perspectives, and help individuals recognize and build upon their strengths. Seeing the growth that can occur when someone feels supported, understood, and empowered is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work.
One of my proudest accomplishments as an athlete was becoming a 1,000-point scorer in college. As a psychologist, however, I am most proud of how I show up for the people I work with—with authenticity, dedication, and optimism. I strive to create a space where individuals feel seen and supported while also feeling encouraged to grow, challenge themselves, and move toward the life and goals that are meaningful to them.
Degree(s)
- MA in Clinical Psychology - Fielding Graduate University (2025)
- MEd in Counseling Psychology and School Mental Health - University of Missouri-Columbia (2021)
- BA in Psychology - Miami (OH) University (2019)