Performance
With Dr. Michael “Doc” Klein, clinical psychologist.
Michael “Doc” Klein is a highly experienced clinical psychologist with 19 years of expertise as a therapist, professor, researcher, and mentor. His passion for peak performance research began in 1998 with his master’s thesis, and over the years, he has expanded his focus to include athletic motor learning, strength and conditioning, as well as cutting-edge innovations in elite golf strategy, instruction, and biomechanics. With a background as a collegiate golfer, Doc continues to compete in New Jersey state tournaments.
In 2020, Doc merged his extensive knowledge of performance psychology, counseling expertise, and firsthand playing experience to create Kharakter Sport Psychology. This sport psychology practice offers mental performance coaching tailored to golfers of all skill levels. He works with amateurs, elite collegiate players, and professionals across the USA and Europe.
Doc’s coaching philosophy is built around three core pillars of golf performance: mental skills, golf knowledge, and identity (including confidence). What sets him apart is his ability to transform these areas into practical, trainable skills that are personalized to each individual. By working closely with athletes to evaluate their current performance goals, Doc crafts custom plans designed to foster consistency, boost confidence, build mental resilience, and enhance performance under pressure.
$500
On-course intensive (2 hours of coaching)
I started to win some NJPGA events soon after I turned professional in 2020. Suddenly, I drew a lot of attention from the golf world. Doc helped me manage some of those situations better. I learned to set boundaries so I could focus on my game. We developed a good relationship quickly and eventually he caddied for me in some of the local majors, and we’ve had good success. He’s enormously knowledgeable about all things golf, including developments in golf instruction, DECADE, AimPoint, and other innovations in performance like Vision 54. He even understands the important parameters on TrackMan and force plates. I can’t recommend him enough. He’s also a heck of a player, playing off near scratch. He’s a great guy and I consider him my friend.
Dr. Klein provided an environment that allowed me to be open and honest about how I was feeling. This allowed us to unlock how I could perform my best. Not only did he help me mentally, but he provided excellent guidance on how to structure my physical preparation and how to fuel my body for optimal performance. His approach is comprehensive. We eventually touched on training details. I was strong, but we planned how to taper into events. I was much fresher and got that extra speed in competition. Everything came together recently — I qualified for the 2024 U.S. Amateur at Hazeltine, fulfilling a lifelong goal. Just so happy with our work and believe he can help any player meet their competitive goals.
$900
Think like a pro (5 hours of coaching)
Not sure which fits? Book a 30-minute call with Doc →
