Dr. J. Kip Matthews is a licensed psychologist, sport and performance psychology expert, and Vice President and Co-Founder of AK Counseling & Consulting, Inc. based in Athens, Georgia. With more than 25 years of experience, he helps individuals from all walks of life, including elite athletes, performing artists, professionals, and students to optimize their potential and live more fulfilling lives.

Kip Matthews Face ShotIn his sport and performance psychology practice, Dr. Matthews has worked extensively with athletes, musicians, dancers, and other performers to help them navigate pressure, strengthen their mental game, and thrive in high-stakes environments. Drawing from his dual training in sport science and psychology, he takes a practical, goal-focused approach tailored to each client’s needs.

Beyond the performance arena, Dr. Matthews is a recognized authority in career and life planning having directed the career services at both Georgia State University and the University of Georgia. He guides clients through the process of clarifying their values, exploring meaningful career directions, and aligning their professional paths with the lives they want to create. If you’re launching your career, considering a change, or reevaluating your goals, Dr. Matthews can provide insightful support grounded in years of experience.

Throughout his career, Dr. Matthews has been a leader in psychological practice and public education. He served as the Director of the Student Success Center at Georgia State University and held leadership roles at both the University of Georgia and Georgia State University’s counseling centers. He is active in professional organizations at the local, regional, and national levels and has contributed to the American Psychological Association’s Mind-Body Health Public Education Campaign. His programs and presentations have addressed a wide range of topics including stress management, health psychology, men’s issues, relationship enhancement, and performance enhancement.

Areas of Focus

  • Sport & Performance Psychology
  • Career & Life Planning
  • Mind-Body Health & Wellness
  • Corporate & Business Consulting
  • Multicultural & Identity-Based Concerns
  • LGBTQ+ Affirming Support

Credentials & Recognition

  • Fellow, Georgia Psychological Association
  • Early Career Achievement Award, American College Personnel Association
  • Credentialed by the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology

Education

  • Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
  • APA-Accredited Pre-doctoral Internship, University of Maryland, College Park
  • Graduate study in Kinesiology (Sport Psychology), University of California, Los Angeles
  • A.B. in Psychology and Physical Education, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill