Mitchell DeSimone

Dr. Mitchell DeSimone serves as a Performance Psychology Instructor at the United States Military Academy (USMA). He holds a doctoral degree in Performance Psychology from the University of Western States and a master's degree in Sport & Performance Psychology from CalSouthern University, alongside a bachelor's in Biology and Secondary Education from Marist College. Since joining USMA in 2023, he supports cadets in mental performance development, drawing on six years of private practice experience. His career spans work with NCAA and professional sports teams, youth athletes, and global performing arts groups.

• Education: Ed.D. (University of Western States), M.S. (CalSouthern University), B.S. (Marist College)

Dr. DeSimone integrates his background as a former professional/competitive dancer—retired with 5 New England Regional titles and a 6th-place world ranking—into his academic practice. He contributes to the Association for Applied Sport Psychology through committee service and Special Interest Group coordination, while co-owning a dance school with his wife and friend.

• Research Focus: Mental performance enhancement across sports and performing arts
• Professional Expertise: Applied mental skills training, performance consulting

His work emphasizes holistic development, bridging psychological theory with real-world performance demands in military, athletic, and artistic contexts.