Abstract

Establishing a professional philosophy is important in determining effective service delivery. Research in applied sport psychology has identified some components of the development process. This article aims to further understand the development of practitioners‟ professional philosophies by focusing upon critical experiences. Interviews were the chosen method of data collection, and focused on times of training and career following training, and explored the role as a supervisor. Results revealed 20 higher-order and 48 lower-order themes. Three key areas in development included exposure, education, and background. This study highlights factors key to the development of professional philosophy whilst noting the differences between obvious and subtle critical experiences that influence this. Educational and training institutions, supervisors, and applied practitioners, can use this knowledge to promote successful development of professional philosophies and effective service delivery