Welcome
For most elite athletes, their sport is all-consuming and it defines their life and identity
…influencing their values, beliefs, goals, relationships, and sense of who one is. Inevitably, life as an elite athlete will come to an end, whether this is through age, injury, or exhaustion. It is often said that an athlete will die twice, the first time at retirement. Yet, retirement is something that many athletes rarely – if ever – think about. What happens when your time as an elite athlete comes to an end – if you aren’t an athlete, then who are you? Retirement from elite sport marks the beginning of a transition that is often stressful for athletes, as social, professional, and personal factors that define one’s sense of self must be re-evaluated.
Life After Sport works with athletes to successfully navigate the process of retirement from sport.
NEW PERSPECTIVE
With my background as a professor of psychiatry and psychotherapy training director, I offer a unique perspective to my clients. Bringing an informed and objective perspective enables my clients to look at their lives differently and see new opportunities.
My experience and training help bring clarity to complex situations, the compassion and professionalism to develop and maintain trusting and confidential relationships, and the skills to develop effective solutions.
CLIENTS
Life After Sport consulting service is intended to help athletes address various areas of their lives that are affected by retirement from sport; for example, working through the sense of loss that accompanies retirement; re-defining your sense of self; navigating relationship issues; and developing strategies for transitioning to a new phase of life.
My clients come from a range of athletic pursuits – both individual and team sports – and from professional and national team ranks.
A person wishes to conquer at the Olympic games. I also wish indeed, for it is a fine thing. But observe both the things which come first, and the things which follow.
-Epictetus
MY APPROACH
My work is individually tailored to suit the person and the issues for which they seek consultation. I approach each client in a non-judgmental manner, being sensitive to the circumstances of their issues, and empathic to their experiences. Clients can expect to work within a collaborative relationship.
Together, we will clarify the primary issue(s) to be dealt with, set concrete and attainable goals (if relevant), and regularly appraise your progress.
RESPECT
I strive to create respectful, trusting, and non-judgmental relationships with my clients.
TRUST
A trusting and mutually respectful relationship will facilitate honesty and creative problem solving. New ideas and innovative solutions will follow.
My Bio
“Your decision to seek consultation is an important indication of your determination to tackle the obstacles in front of you and move your life forward in a positive direction.”
I am a Professor and Director of the Psychotherapy Program in the Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia. In my role as Director, I oversee the operations of North America’s 2nd largest medically based psychotherapy training program. My research has been supported by various provincial and national funding bodies, and has led to nearly 200 scientific publications. In addition to my research, I am involved with teaching medical students and psychiatry residents, serve in various capacities with a number of scientific and clinical journals, and consult with various teams and organizations about mental wellness for athletes.
I have more than 20 years of experience working with athletes, focusing mainly on transition away from an athletic career when it comes to an end.
Dr. John Ogrodniczuk PhD
Postdoctoral Fellowship, University of British Columbia;
PhD, University of Alberta; BA, University of Calgary.
Contact Me
Let’s get started.