Jay Harrison Transitions from NHL Player to Psychologist

Former NHL defenceman Jay Harrison has successfully transitioned from professional hockey to a career in psychology, leveraging his extensive experiences both on and off the ice. **Harrison**, who played parts of 15 seasons in the NHL, including 35 games with the Winnipeg Jets during the 2014-15 season, has embraced a new path as a consulting psychologist and educator.

Harrison’s journey into academia began while he was still an active player. He was not content to wait until retirement to explore his interests. “I found a passion for education, even in junior,” he shared during a recent conversation from his home in North Carolina. “I liked being a student and took well to it.”

Despite the challenges of balancing a demanding hockey career with his studies, Harrison pursued a master’s degree in clinical health counselling, which he completed in 2019. His commitment to education did not detract from his performance on the ice; rather, he found that academic pursuits enhanced his focus and resilience as an athlete. “The academic side of things was contributing to that,” he noted.

Harrison’s academic interests led him to explore psychology, particularly the ways it could help him navigate the complexities of being a professional athlete, a husband, and a father. “We have this gain paradox, the idea of protecting what you are going to lose ends up strengthening what you thought you were losing,” he explained.

After his time with the Jets, Harrison continued his studies, culminating in a PhD in performance psychology, which he completed in 2023. His research focused on the intriguing concept of how taking breaks from intense focus can actually improve overall performance. “I was able to show that this phenomenon is actually real,” he stated.

Today, Harrison applies his unique blend of sports experience and psychological expertise in various consulting roles. He works with the National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) as a consulting psychologist. One of his key projects is the First Line program, a health and wellness initiative aimed at promoting mental health awareness among NHL players, developed in collaboration with the Mental Health Commission of Canada.

The First Line program is voluntary and encourages NHLPA members to engage in discussions about mental health. “As we shift the perception and context of what it means to experience mental-health challenges, it’s not a static thing,” Harrison said. “We are all moving in the state of our mental health, therefore, accessing resources and utilizing resources along that journey is the pursuit of optimal functioning.”

The program is designed for anyone interested in learning more about mental health, regardless of their prior knowledge or experience. “This isn’t about becoming a psychologist,” Harrison emphasized. “You simply have to be curious and interested and would like to learn more skills that may help you support yourself or important people in your life.”

Harrison’s impact is already being felt in locker rooms. Nine members of the Winnipeg Jets, including captain Adam Lowry, have completed the First Line program. “Just to help recognize some of the signs… where you can point them to,” Lowry explained, noting the importance of fostering open conversations among teammates.

Reflecting on Harrison’s journey, Lowry remarked, “I remember that we used to joke that he was the most interesting teammate that we’ve ever played with.” He praised Harrison’s ability to juggle his studies while playing, underscoring his wisdom and passion for both hockey and life.

As he builds his practice and continues to contribute to the mental health dialogue in professional sports, Harrison exemplifies how athletes can successfully transition to new careers while using their experiences to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. His story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that a fulfilling life can be achieved beyond the confines of the ice.