Dr. Ashley Samson is an assistant professor at California State University, Northridge (CSUN). She received a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Northwestern State University in northern Louisiana and then moved to Dallas, TX to pursue her Master's degree in Sport Psychology from the University of North Texas. Ashley then returned to Louisiana to complete a Ph.D. in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Psychological Sciences from Louisiana State University. As an assistant professor at CSUN, Ashley teaches courses in sport psychology and sociology and works with the athletic department of the university as an athlete consultant. Her research primarily examines motivation in athletes and how it can impact engagement, adherence, and performance in the sport and physical activity setting. 

One of the most challenging things for many athletes is developing the ability to perform at their best, when it counts most. Learning to manage the stress, pressure and anxiety of high pressure situations is imperative if an athlete is working toward becoming a dominant force in their competitive arena. I help athletes to learn and understand that gaining the mental edge needed to win is a process similar to the way in which they train for their sport- a proven system, consistent training and constant adjustment. 

Dr. Samson works with individuals, teams, and coaches on a variety of topics, including competition anxiety, confidence building, team cohesion, communication and many more attributes needed to succeed in high level competition.