Endurance athlete & COUNSELOR
Here to help you train your mind like you train your body.
Introduction
You’ve got grit, discipline, and big goals, but something is holding you back. As Yogi Berra famously said, “Baseball is 90% mental, and the other half is physical”. This isn’t just true of baseball. It applies to everything we do.
I’m Christy: Licensed Professional Counselor, endurance athlete, wife, mom of two, and founder of Unlocked Counseling. With over 20 years of experience in mental health counseling and a personal running resume that includes competing at a high level in the marathon and ultra marathon distances, I know what it takes to push through pain, setbacks, and self-doubt. I also know that sustainable performance and personal growth are only possible when we are able to cultivate a mindset that supports these goals.
At Unlocked Counseling, I believe that reaching your full potential requires a balanced approach—nurturing both mind and body. Whether you’re navigating a personal challenge, managing stress or anxiety, or working to elevate your performance in sport, school, work, or life, I’m here to help you build confidence, resilience, and live in alignment with your values and priorities
Christy enjoying the great outdoors in Colorado and New Zealand.
Why I Do This Work
I do this work because I’ve lived it myself—I’ve learned that we can pursue ambitious goals while still paying attention to the rest of our lives and the challenges we face along the way. While running (or any sport or activity) can and often is therapeutic, there are times when training isn’t enough.
Life—whether in sport, work, school, or personal pursuits—is a wild ride. One moment you’re thriving. The next, you’re nursing an injury, battling burnout, or facing a wave of self-doubt. I’ve been there—navigating surgery, setbacks, and major transitions while still aiming to show up for the people and passions that matter most.
Breaking the 3-hour marathon barrier after turning 40, or placing third at the Leadville Trail 100, didn’t just come from my structured training plans—these accomplishments came from a resilient mindset built during my toughest life seasons.
I created Unlocked Counseling to help athletes of all levels, high performers, and anyone navigating life’s pressures strengthen mental fitness, move through challenges with self-compassion, and unlock their full potential—both in sport and in life.
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.”
— Pele
My Approach
My approach is warm, relational, and strengths-based. I focus on you as a whole person, not just performance metrics or the challenges you’re facing. I combine mental skills training—like mindfulness, mental rehearsal, and goal setting—with a deeper understanding of what’s beneath the surface: identity, purpose, fear, values, pressure, and the stories we tell ourselves.
Whether you’re navigating performance pressure, a dip in confidence, relationship challenges, or mental health concerns like anxiety or depression, I meet you where you are—with empathy, expertise, and a belief in your capacity to grow and thrive.
While I rely on evidence-based practices, I prioritize a respectful, trusting relationship. By avoiding impersonal, clinical jargon, I create a relatable, supportive environment where you can build resilience, develop confidence, and unlock your highest potential—both in sport and in life.
The Personal Side
I’m lucky to do this work while raising two incredible teenage kids in the Colorado mountains with my best friend and adventure partner - my husband, who also happens to be my running coach. We spend as much time outside as possible with our two blue heelers and love packing up our van to unplug and chase wide open skies.
These days, I’m still chasing finish lines and running strong as a Masters athlete but one of my greatest joys is watching my kids discover what excites them in sport and in life.
WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING
“Since working with CHRISTY, I’ve noticeD a significant improvement in my confidence and overall performance.”
Working with Christy has been a game-changer for both my high school athletics and everyday life. She has helped me navigate the mental chanllenges of competition and the stress that comes with balancing sports, academics, and personal life. Her unique perspectives and practical strategies have given me the tools to manage my overthinking, stay focused, and perform my best. Since working with her, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in my confidence and overall performance. I highly recommend Christy Aish to any athlete looking to strengthen their mental game and approach challenges with a clear mindset!
Client | Age 18
Let’s Unlock your potential, together.
Whether you’re working through setbacks, reaching for big goals, or navigating life’s transitions, I bring 20 years of personal insight, endurance sport experience, and professional expertise to help you grow, regain focus, and show up fully when and where it matters most.