"Once I got over that I learned that I actually wanted to run and that it was my choice as to whether I did or not, no-one was making me do it. Understanding that and being given some skills to practice I don’t hate running anymore and that I know I can do it. What a breakthrough, I have now entered my first half marathon"

Melissa Coyle

Sport & Exercise Psychologist

Plymouth Marjon University 
Derriford Rd  
Plymouth
DEVON

PL6 8BH

Tel: 07966251158
E-mail: mcoyle@marjon.ac.uk

Follow me on twitter on @mcsportpsych 

Study MSc Applied Sport Psychology at Plymouth Marjon University

Originally from Edinburgh, Melissa has been based in the South West for over 14 years.

Melissa has extensive experience working as a sport and exercise psychologist for professional, international, elite and non-elite athletes for over 15 years. To support Melissa's practice please see her testimonials.

My consultancy work has predominantly been in professional football with over 8 seasons working in professional clubs, working with players, coaches, and backroom staff. I also have extensive practice in elite platform and springboard diving, tennis, athletics, equestrianism, exercise adherence, swimming, gig rowing, golf, kayaking, ten pin bowling, netball, and hockey.

I am also a senior lecturer at Plymouth Marjon University and lead the MSc Applied Sport Psychology programme. I lecture in sport & exercise psychology at undergraduate and post graduate level. I have presented at a number of national and international conference; and I am currently involved in a number of applied research projects with peer reviewed published research.

My practice is primarily based on a gestalt, humanistic consultancy approach which was developed through extensive gestalt counselling training. This is a client and athlete centred approach which is created from the individuals needs,;this approach also acknowledges that each athlete and client is unique. I work towards developing a long term trust and rapport with each client, creating an honest,  open, and empathic environment where people can feel safe; everything that’s discussed in individual and group sessions remains completely confidential.



My practice also seeks to generate and facilitate positive behaviour chance which seeks to enhance performance and utilises an eclectic approach of humanistic, gestalt and cognitive-bahavioral based practice where appropriate.



Health Care Professional Council (HCPC) registered

British Association of Sport and Exercise Science (BASES) accredited

BASES Chartered Scientist

MSc, BSc (Hons)

Professional football, diving, tennis, athletics, swimming, equestriansim, and exercise