Demetrius Biggs
Licensed Professional Counselor
Presenter's Bio
Demetrius Biggs is an experienced therapist and performance coach with over 12 years in the mental health field. His career spans residential facilities, group homes, and community mental health programs serving both youth and adults. Drawing from his background as a former Division I collegiate athlete, Demetrius offers a unique understanding of the mental and emotional demands associated with high performance, resilience, and personal growth. He holds an undergraduate degree in Human Services from Northeastern University and dual master's degrees in Human Services and Professional Counseling from Liberty University. A Maryland native and longtime Virginia resident, Demetrius integrates person-centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, strength-based and solution-focused approaches, reality therapy, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques into his work. Demetrius is passionate about helping individuals optimize performance by building self-awareness, confidence, emotional regulation, communication skills, and effective goal-setting strategies. Outside of his professional roles, he enjoys quality time with his wife and three children, staying active, reading, writing, and creating spaces for reflection and growth.
When the Jersey Comes Off: Mental Wellness Beyond the Sport
Course Summary
This topic explores the often-overlooked emotional and psychological challenges athletes face once they step away from competition-whether after practice, during injury, or post-career. It focuses on the transition from "athlete identity" to a fuller sense of self, highlighting common struggles such as loss of structure, pressure to perform, uncertainty about life outside of sports, and the emotional impact of no longer being in the spotlight. The summary emphasizes strategies that support athletes in maintaining mental wellness beyond the game, including building coping skills, strengthening self-awareness, developing purpose outside of athletics, nurturing support systems, and redefining success on their own terms.