Dr Jason Scott Hamilton, Jamaican licensed clinical and sports psychologist and the Founder and CEO of Elite Sports Psychology, LLC (ESP), has made history as the first Jamaican PhD to receive a diploma in the Treatment of Mental Health in Elite Athletes from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

In the recent graduation ceremony at the IOC Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Dr. Hamilton stood proudly among his peers, comprising 42% of successful programme completers. He now joins the ranks of 66 graduates from 34 countries since the programme’s inception in 2021.

This 16-month programme caters to sports medicine physicians and other healthcare professionals working with athletes, and licensed practitioners qualified to offer mental health services. These include clinical psychiatrists or clinical psychologists, sports psychologists, clinical social workers, licensed mental health counsellors, and psychiatric mental health nurses. Upon certification, clinicians are equipped to address mental health symptoms and disorders in elite sports comprehensively, recognise major stressors and environmental factors impacting athlete mental health, and implement effective prevention strategies. 

“I am truly honoured to receive this prestigious certification from the International Olympic Committee. This achievement is not only a personal milestone, but a tribute to the incredible spirit, resilience, and excellence demonstrated by Jamaica’s legendary athletes, as well as those across the Caribbean and the global sporting community. It’s a privilege to contribute to a legacy of greatness, and I am deeply committed to helping athletes reach their fullest potential, both mentally and physically, as they pursue their dreams” stated Dr. Hamilton.

Since earning his Ph.D. and clinical psychology license in 2003, Dr. Hamilton has been dedicated to his passion for sports psychology. Beginning his academic career in South Florida, he served as the Director of Research for the McNair Programme and the Associate Dean of the College of Medicine at Florida International University. In 2008, he founded Elite Sports Psychology, shifting his focus to enhancing the performance of athletes, entertainers, sports franchises, non-athletic organisations, and high-performance individuals through psychological/psychiatric techniques and coaching. 

Dr. Hamilton continued, sharing that “preserving an athlete’s mental health is just as critical as their physical well-being. The mental demands of training, competition, and the pressures of high performance can be overwhelming, and without proper support, it can hinder both their personal growth and athletic potential. By prioritising mental health, we equip athletes with the tools to manage stress, stay focused, and maintain a positive mindset, all of which are essential for long-term success. The same goes for high-performing individuals across all industries. Mental resilience isn’t just about overcoming challenges, it’s about thriving in the face of them, and that is key to achieving and surpassing one’s goals.” 

Dr. Hamilton’s work in Jamaica has garnered recognition from the Ministry of Culture, Gender, Entertainment and Sport and the Jamaica Olympic Association. He has been an integral part of the sports medical team for various prestigious events, including the 2024 FIFA Copa and Nations League, as a part of the Reggae Boyz Sports Medical Team. In addition, Dr Hamilton has been thanked by some of the world’s elite athletes including local stars Elaine Thompson-Herah, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Shericka Jackson, Briana Williams, and international champions Daniel Leyva and Shaquille O’Neal. 

He has also received thanks and recognition from top athletes who participated in the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games, 2021 Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, 2022 Carifta Games and the 2022 Jamaica National Track and Field Trials. Other achievements include recognition for his work in assisting the Harbour View Football Club in winning the Premier League Football Championship in the 2007, 2010 and 2013 seasons, along with his high school alma mater, Jamaica College, in winning five back-to-back national football Championships. 

In Miami, Dr. Hamilton specialises in the peak performance of athletes, entertainers, and other professionals, giving guidance and support in navigating psychiatric or mental health issues. Through his boutique practice at Elite Sports Psychology, since 2008, Dr. Hamilton has also worked in academia and research.