Arianna Ciccarelli Shimits, MA, CMPC, Co-Founder of Persistence Psych, holds a Master’s in Sport and Performance Psychology. A former professional ballet dancer, she earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology at Arizona State University. Transitioning from ballet, she pursued an MA in SPP and is currently a doctoral student in Counseling Psychology at Springfield College. Arianna applies her expertise to various fields, working with performers like dancers, musicians, athletes, surgeons, and more. Passionate about enhancing performance, she believes in combining rigorous physical training with SPP for optimal results.

Arianna Ciccarelli Shimits, MA, CMPC, Co-Founder of Persistence Psych, holds a Master’s in Sport ... Read More

Claire McCall, a consultant at Persistence Psych, is a PhD student studying Counseling Psychology at The University of Iowa. With a master’s degree in Sport and Performance Psychology from the University of Denver and dual degrees in Trumpet Performance and Psychology from The University of Iowa, Claire is passionate about improving the mental wellbeing and mental skills of adolescents and young adults. Beyond her studies, she works as a graduate research assistant at the Belin-Blank Center, contributing to state-wide projects addressing the educational needs of high-achieving students. With experience in school, university, and hospital settings, Claire collaborates with clients to create plans that foster goal achievement and enhance psychological skill development. In her free time, she enjoys yoga, swimming, and walks with friends.

Claire McCall, a consultant at Persistence Psych, is a PhD student studying Counseling Psychology... Read More

A native of Tacoma, WA, Lauren is currently a Soloist with The Sarasota Ballet in Florida. She has performed lead and featured roles in ballets by renowned choreographers including Balanchine, Ashton, Robbins, Tharp, Taylor, Graham, and Macmillan. Prior to joining the Sarasota Ballet in 2018, Lauren danced professionally with The National Ballet of Canada and spent time training in Seattle, Vancouver, San Francisco, Pennsylvania, and Amsterdam.

Lauren is a Masters student at the University of Western States, studying Sport & Performance Psychology. She is also currently working towards her CMPC (Certified Mental Performance Consultant) credential. Lauren holds a double major from California Baptist University and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BS in Kinesiology and a BS in Sport and Performance Psychology. She is also a certified Pilates instructor, as well as a Certified Personal Trainer.

Lauren is passionate about increasing the knowledge and resources surrounding Applied Sport and Performance Psychology for all high-level athletes and performers, and has a special interest in helping performing artists develop the mental tools for performance excellence and enjoyment both on stage and off.

A native of Tacoma, WA, Lauren is currently a Soloist with The Sarasota Ballet in Florida. She ha... Read More

Alyssa Epstein, MA spent 16 years kicking up her heels as a World-Famous Radio City Rockette. She has been seen dancing on the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, The Today Show, Good Morning America, Live with Kelly and Michael, America’s Got Talent, and many more. Alyssa is currently a sanctioned teacher with the Verdon/Fosse Legacy. She is the first individual who has never worked with Bob Fosse or Gwen Verdon to hold that title. Alyssa has been a faculty member at both Steps on Broadway and Broadway Dance Center in New York City. She has been a guest teacher at Juilliard, the University of Illinois, Wagner College, and more.

Alyssa holds a Master’s degree in Sport and Performance Psychology from National University and a BFA in Dance from the University of Illinois - Urbana/Champaign. She currently works with performing artists and athletes in addressing concerns such as performance anxiety, return from injury, mindfulness, and career transition. Alyssa is passionate about helping individuals from all walks of life in achieving their greatest potential.

She is most proud of her title as an 8-year Breast Cancer Survivor! Alyssa works with various charities around the country spreading hope to those that need it most.

Alyssa Epstein, MA spent 16 years kicking up her heels as a World-Famous Radio City Rockette. She... Read More