General | 8/5/2025 10:37:00 AM
Oberlin, Ohio – As part of a newly created position in collaboration between Oberlin Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) and Oberlin Athletics, Delta Lodge Director of Athletics & Physical Education and Associate Vice President for Athletics Advancement Natalie Winkelfoos, has announced the appointment of John Harshbarger as the Psychologist and Director of Student-Athlete Wellness.
"I love what I do, and I am very excited to be joining Oberlin College Athletics as the Director of Student Athlete Wellness!" Harshbarger adds, "As a former athlete myself, I understand the unique challenges that our student-athletes face, and I am committed to putting my expertise to practice to uplift and celebrate our Crimson and Gold community!"
No stranger to Oberlin College, Harshbarger has worked at Oberlin for the last 21 years, where he has served as the Director and Staff Psychologist in CAPS within the Division of Student Affairs.
Harshbarger's background includes training in couples therapy, career counseling, family therapy, multicultural counseling, sex therapy, and interpersonal counseling. Additionally, his special interests include working with students who are experiencing depression, anxiety/stress, interpersonal difficulties, gender issues, family of origin issues, body image concerns, and alcohol and other drug concerns.
For student-athletes, Harshbarger will provide direct counseling and psychological support, including individual and group therapy, crisis response, and intake assessments. He will also collaborate closely with coaches to promote mental wellness and enhance competitive performance through targeted educational workshops, small-group sessions, and team consultations.
"John's thoughtful approach, familiarity with our campus community, and clinical expertise will help us support the whole student-athlete within our competitive pursuits, in the classroom, and beyond." Winkelfoos adds, "As a former volleyball player, John brings a team-oriented spirit, deep experience in clinical psychology, and a commitment to student well-being."
A counseling psychologist by trade and education, Harshbarger earned his PhD in Counseling Psychology from the Ohio State University in 1993. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of California, Davis in 1986.
Harshbarger will formally move to the Shanks Health and Wellness Center, just in time for the Fall season.
Fans can keep up with their favorite teams on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok, and watch all the home matches live online. The Crimson and Gold's home broadcasts can be accessed on TV through the official Oberlin College Sports Network app on Roku, Apple TV, and Amazon Fire TV.
