Welcome to NAT Sports Directory!
At NAT, which stands for Nurturing Athletes’ Talent, we are dedicated to empowering athletes by connecting them with a network of skilled sports professionals. Our directory features a diverse range of experts, including sports therapists, coaches, dietitians, physical health providers, college recruiting services, training facilities, and more—all aimed at supporting athletes in their mental and physical journeys.
With over ten years of experience in private practice, I specialize in athletes’ mental health and performance. My work spans a wide spectrum of clients, from NFL and NBA players to NCAA athletes and youth sports participants. This year, I released two athlete workbooks—”The Athlete’s Prepbook” and “The Athlete Prepbook Youth Edition”—with the latter debuting at number 1 on Amazon. These resources are crafted to equip athletes with the mental tools they need to thrive in their sports.
I hold a master’s degree from the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration and a bachelor’s degree from Chicago State University. My academic journey included a transformative experience studying abroad in London through the University of Maryland’s Sport, Commerce, and Culture program. I have also completed specialized training in addictions and compulsive gambling, further enriching my understanding of the mental health challenges athletes may face.
As the creator of the 1 in 4 PROJECT, I led an organization committed to raising awareness of mental health and wellness within the sports community. I am an founding member of ASWIS and currently serve as the executive secretary. I am honored to have been recognized for my contributions, receiving a lifetime achievement award from the Alliance of Social Workers In Sports (ASWIS) in 2024. In addition to my practice, I train mental health therapists aspiring to work with athletes and have had the privilege of speaking nationally and internationally on related topics.
NAT Sports Directory aims to ensure that every athlete has access to the resources they need not just for physical training, but also for mental and emotional well-being. Together, we can nurture talent and promote a holistic approach to athletic success.
Thank you for being part of our community!
Warm regards,
Natalie Graves, AM, LCSW, CADC
Founder, NAT Sports Directory
Author, “The Athlete’s Prepbook” & “The Athlete Prepbook Youth Edition”
Founder & President, 1 in 4 PROJECT
