Sue Sugarman, LCSW Raising Happy, Healthy, Resilient Kids

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Sue Sugarman, LCSW Raising Happy, Healthy, Resilient Kids

Sue Sugarman is an NYC-based child and adolescent therapist, lecturer and consultant for parents, co She is available for speaking engagements.

Sue Sugarman, LCSW, is therapist, consultant and performance coach. A therapist for over 20 years, Sue is a New Yorker, a mother, and an athlete. She believes that resiliency is a key coping skill that can be learned and mastered. Sue works with child and teen athletes and performers, and runs workshops for parents and coaches.

07/23/2025

Hey athletes, we spend so much time training hard, perfecting our skills, and pushing our limits. But how often do we focus on our mental game? How do we tackle challenges and keep our emotions in check?

Skiing legend put it so well. Just like we schedule regular check-ups for our physical health, our mental well-being deserves the same attention and care.

Your mental health isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity 🧠✨

Normalize therapy. Normalize mental health check-ins. Normalize taking care of your whole self. 🙌 Talk with a friend about it today!

07/21/2025

As a psychotherapist working with student-athletes and their families, I've seen firsthand the intense pressures on our young athletes. It's time we bring mental health out of the shadows and on to center field.⁠
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Parents, coaches, athletes: We're all on the same team regarding mental health. How are you promoting well-being in your sports community? ⁠
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Remember, seeking help isn't a sign of weakness; it takes courage. Together, we can change the game for student-athlete mental health! 💪🏅⁠
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07/15/2025

Dear student athlete: You are more than your performance. While the thrill of victory and the weight of medals can feel all-consuming, your mental wellbeing will always be your most valuable asset. You’re building skills that last a lifetime, and taking care of your mental health is the foundation for everything else. When you’re struggling, reach out – seeking support isn’t weakness, it’s wisdom. Your journey as an athlete is important, but your journey as a human being comes first.

07/10/2025

Being a sports parent comes with a million questions- How do I keep them motivated? Am I pushing too hard? How do I handle their disappointment after losses?⁠

In my practice I work with both athletes and their parents to answer these questions and develop skills that will help them on every step of their journey- on and off the field.

A great athlete isn't just defined by playing time or trophies- The greatest victory is raising a balanced, confident person who learns from both wins and losses.⁠

07/08/2025

🏆🏀Dear Sports Mom,

Game day nerves aren't just for athletes - parents feel them too! And guess what? Your anxiety is contagious to your child.

This simple breathing technique can help you manage those pre-game jitters and create a calm, supportive presence for your athlete.

In my therapy practice, I teach both athletes AND their parents these techniques. Why? Because when you're calm, you help your athlete stay focused on their performance rather than your reactions.

Save this post for that next big game when your stomach is in knots!
Do you have any pre-game rituals that help you stay calm? Share below!

07/03/2025

You are your student athlete’s biggest fan, their #1 supporter and their parent all in one. You work hard to make sure they have everything they need. Who's supporting you?

Therapy is a safe place for you to process your hopes, fears and frustrations, so that when they hit the court, you can bring your best self too. I work with clients to build strategies to help them support their athletes, as well as care for themselves.

Plus, when you model healthy habits like therapy, rest days, and open communication, you make it easier for your child to develop these habits too- habits that will help them on and off the court.

07/01/2025

You know your athlete’s mental health is important, but what does therapy actually help with?

Athletes are often told to “push through the pain” or “toughen up” - but this advice teaches athletes to ignore their body, rather than getting in touch with it.

In my practice, I teach athletes how to manage anxiety, build the emotional regulation skills to bounce back from setbacks, and create self care strategies that will help them through their whole career.
When we focus only on physical fitness, we leave athletes without a whole set of skills they need for happiness and success.

Start your week with this important conversation. Let’s prioritize mental wellness just as much as physical training.

06/27/2025

Hey Sports Mom!

In the age of highlight reels and early specialization, it's easy to lose perspective on what healthy athletic development really looks like.
As a therapist who works with athletes across their development, I've seen how pushing too hard too early can backfire physically AND mentally.

The most successful long-term athletes often had parents who:
🏅 Encouraged multi-sport play in early years
🏅 Focused on fundamental movement skills before specialization
🏅 Prioritized enjoyment and intrinsic motivation
🏅 Understood that development isn't linear

Your child's athletic journey is unique. Trust the process and enjoy each phase for what it offers.

Where is your athlete in their development journey? Let's chat about it!

06/24/2025

Building resilience isn't about avoiding life's storms—it's about learning to weather them. And resilience is a skill we can all develop! From practicing a growth mindset to establishing supportive relationships and healthy routines, small daily habits create resilience over time. ⁠
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06/19/2025

🏆 Calling All Coaches: Champion Your Athletes' Mental Health! 🧠💪⁠
Remember, a mentally healthy team is a strong team!⁠

As coaches, you have the power to make a positive impact beyond the field. Let's create an environment where our athletes can thrive both in sports and in life.⁠

🏆 Encourage Open Communication
🏆Prioritize well-being over winning
🏆Recognize and praise effort, not just results
🏆Foster team bonding activities

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06/17/2025

Supporting your young athlete through disappointment builds resilience that lasts a lifetime.

These phrases create space for authentic conversation without rushing to fix or minimize their experience. The way we respond to setbacks teaches crucial emotional skills that matter far beyond sports. What supportive phrases have worked well in your family?

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06/05/2025

Hey Sports Mom,

Consistency is key! Remember that athletic development is a marathon, not a sprint! With all the drama and excitement of a game, it can be easy to forget all the little things that go into making a great athlete. Helping your child commit to a consistent, realistic training schedule will help them go farther than any single in-game strategy.

Address

New York, NY

Telephone

+12129801780

Website

http://www.suesugarman.com/

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