Dr. Laura Hayden is a mental performance consultant, educator, and founder of Apex Mental Performance, a boutique consulting practice focused on helping athletes, executives, and teams perform at their highest level in high-pressure environments.

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With a background as both a competitive runner and a counseling psychology specialist focusing on sport and performance psychology, Dr. Hayden brings a unique combination of applied experience and scientific training to her work. She partners with clients to develop practical, individualized mental strategies that support focus, confidence, emotional regulation, leadership, and consistent performance under pressure.

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In addition to her consulting work, Dr. Hayden has spent over 15 years in higher education and currently serves as the Director of the Mental Performance Consulting program at William James College, where she trains future practitioners in the field. Her work follows a scientist-practitioner model, integrating research, applied practice, and real-world performance environments.

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Dr. Hayden’s research focuses on the intersection of mental health, physical health, and performance. She has presented at over 70 national and international conferences, published more than 40 peer-reviewed manuscripts, and authored multiple book chapters and books in the areas of performance, well-being, and human development.

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Through Apex Mental Performance, Dr. Hayden works with athletes, leaders, and organizations who are committed to performing, leading, and competing at the highest level.

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Education

• Ed.D., Counseling Psychology (Sport Psychology), Boston University

• C.A.G.S., Counseling Psychology, Boston College

• M.A., Developmental & Educational Psychology, Boston College

• B.A., Psychology, English, and Spanish, University of Michigan

 

Performance Environments

• Executive leadership & corporate environments

• Competitive sport environments

• High-achieving academic environments

• Team and organizational performance settings

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Consulting Philosophy
I believe that performance is not defined by what someone can do on their best day, but by what they can reliably do under pressure. My work focuses on helping clients develop the mental skills and structures that allow them to perform, lead, and make decisions effectively when it matters most.