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About Us
Co-Founder and Coach, Chris Kelly
Chris Kelly, MSW, LCSW-C, and ASFA Certified Advanced Sports Psychology Coach, is the co-founder of Strata Mental Performance Coaching. He brings more than three decades of experience in leadership, coaching, and human development, helping athletes, coaches, students, and professionals build confidence, resilience, focus, and composure under pressure.
A former Division I wrestler, USA Hockey Certified Youth Coach, youth baseball and soccer coach, and competitive pickleball player with multiple tournament podium finishes, Chris combines professional expertise with firsthand experience as both an athlete and coach. His practical, relationship-centered approach helps clients strengthen the mental side of performance, overcome challenges, trust their preparation, and perform with confidence when it matters most.
Chris earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Loyola University Maryland and a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Maryland. He works one-on-one with teens and adults seeking to strengthen their mental performance and also partners with parents, coaches, and teams to help athletes perform with greater confidence, focus, and resilience.
Co-Founder and Coach, Steve Branson
Steve Branson, MSW, LCSW-C, is the co-founder of Strata Mental Performance Coaching and a seasoned behavioral health professional with more than three decades of experience supporting individuals, teams, and organizations. Throughout his career, Steve has worked across a wide range of clinical, educational, and community-based settings, bringing deep expertise in behavioral health, leadership, professional training, Trauma-Informed Care, and resilience-building.
A nationally recognized trainer and expert in Trauma-Informed Care, Steve helps individuals and groups develop practical strategies to navigate adversity, manage stress, strengthen confidence, and perform at their best. His approach is direct, collaborative, and person-centered, working alongside each individual to understand their concerns and identify practical methods that support growth, resilience, and long-term well-being.
Steve earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Purdue University and a master’s degree in clinical social work from the University of Maryland. A longtime musician and guitarist, he has performed with bands at venues and festivals nationally and internationally, giving him firsthand experience with the preparation, focus, and confidence required to perform in front of an audience. Outside of his professional work, Steve enjoys spending time with his family and pets, following sports and popular culture, hiking, and going to the gym.
Steve partners with teams, businesses, and organizations to provide training and support. On a limited basis, he also works with older teens and adults through individual counseling and therapy. If interested in individual therapy, please reach out to Steve @ sbranson@smpc.com.