Center for Chess Psychology
A chess game is a conversation of the mind.
Chess psychology creates a bridge between behavioral science and how a person plays chess.
- How can you improve your chess ability through an understanding of emotional patterns?
- What can your chess style teach you about how you think?
- How can we use chess to improve emotional regulation and development?
Whether you’re a player, family, club, or school, it’s time we answered those questions.
Allow me to go more in depthClassical game VS FM A. Dixit (2025). White to play. How would different emotions produce different ideas in the position?
Meet Aaron
It’s nice to meet you.
I’m Aaron Thompson, Executive Director of the Center for Chess Psychology. With an MA in Marriage & Family Therapy, a 2000+ USCF competitor’s rating, and a background as the former Director of Outreach at Chess in Slums Africa, I’ve spent my career at the intersection of culture, competitive chess, and psychological principles. Six distinct offerings have grown out of that experience, each one tailored to where you, your family, or your club actually are.
Six ways we can work together
See full details →Chess Psychology Coaching
One-on-one work connecting how you think with how you play.
Curriculum-Based Teaching
Chess-based lesson plans that teach emotional regulation and decision-making.
Presentation Engagements
Keynotes and talks on the mind behind the moves, for chess and non-chess audiences alike.
Group Sessions & Workshops
Hands-on workshops for teams of players working through the same mental blocks together.
Mental Health Consulting for Schools & Clubs
Advising administrators and club directors on building mentally healthy chess programs.
Parent Support & Guidance
Helping parents support a young player without taking over the game.
Global Partnerships
Working with federations, schools, and clubs worldwide
From scholastic clubs to national federations, the same principle holds everywhere the pieces move: the players who last are the ones who learn to manage themselves, not just the position.
Meet the partners