Griffin recounted that his initial visit occurred around 2012. At the time, the team had a dedicated sports psychologist, and participation was encouraged for players. The psychologist approached Griffin after a practice, proposing that they meet outside the regular setting—perhaps over coffee or even at Griffin’s home. Griffin agreed to meet at his residence in Manhattan Beach, and the two talked on his balcony. After the session, Griffin returned to his routine, only to find a voicemail from the psychologist in which the coach at the time reportedly mentioned that the discussion had yielded “some really interesting things.”
Griffin described the that moment as shocking and troubling. He expressed disbelief that such details could be shared, and it led him to conclude that he would never pursue further sessions with a sports psychologist. The incident left a lasting impression, eroding his trust in the confidentiality that is central to therapeutic work. He implied that the disclosure of private conversations by a psychologist or by a coach could severely undermine the perceived safety of seeking mental health support.
The episode also touched on team dynamics and leadership. Griffin noted that the head coach at the time was Vinny Del Negro, and he suggested that it would be inappropriate for the coach to solicit or receive personal disclosures from a psychologist about a player’s private conversations. Griffin’s experience underscored the potential consequences when trust in mental health professionals is compromised.
Despite the unsettling beginning, Griffin did not abandon the idea of therapy altogether. He later disclosed that he continues to engage in therapy, though with a different approach and perhaps greater discretion. He explained that he has been consistent with therapy in recent years, emphasizing that the purpose of therapy is not to hand out instant solutions but to help individuals uncover their own answers through guided reflection.
Griffin’s discussion aligns with a broader conversation about mental health in professional sports. His experience highlights the importance of confidentiality and professionalism in therapeutic relationships. It also underscores that seeking mental health support can be a proactive and ongoing practice for athletes, especially as careers face physical wear and evolving pressures.
In addition to his personal growth, Griffin referenced conversations with fellow players about the benefits of therapy. He cited CJ McCollum, noting that McCollum has spoken about consulting a therapist as a valuable tool for managing the stresses that come with professional basketball. Griffin reiterated his own belief in the value of therapy: sitting with a trained professional can help athletes explore questions, process injuries, and navigate the emotional aspects of life on and off the court.
Griffin’s career trajectory, from being the No. 1 pick in the 2009 NBA Draft to earning Rookie of the Year and multiple All-Star selections, reflects a remarkable journey through highs and challenges. His early years with the Los Angeles Clippers showcased the potential that defined his early reputation, while injuries in the following seasons shaped a different phase of his career. A stint with the Detroit Pistons brought another All-Star appearance in 2019, but injuries continued to be a factor, eventually leading Griffin to retire in 2024 after 14 seasons in the NBA.
Today, Griffin’s openness about his mental health journey contributes to a growing awareness of how athletes approach well-being beyond physical performance. It underscores that seeking mental health support is a strength, not a sign of weakness, and it can be an important component of sustaining performance and personal resilience over the long arc of a professional sports career.
