Not everyone knows what "mindset" means or why it counts.
Beyond poker's technical bells and whistles, as the game gets harder, a strong mental game becomes a real edge.
Across a live session, every action you take impacts “mind-fitness" including hands you open; how and when you bet; how often you put stacks in play; how much you talk; how long you're at a game; levels of aggression; bankroll; reaction to others.
Predictable leaks
As one of the few Vegas women grinding live cash, I’ve played against thousands of recreationals who sit my games from every level of play—from low-stakes NLHE to nosebleed games. In the end, losing isn't sexy.
Yet many recs share a lack of awareness because they don't study a complex game. Or they're used to casual home games. Or they're danced by a gamble demon and, ironically, chase the pain of losing. Bank accounts aside, these players are predictable and exploitable—they in too many hands, complain about bad beats, believe luck will save them, force their play, copy weak styles, limp to see cheap flops. Textbook.
Emotional intelligence
Your growth as a player starts with making thoughts, feelings, and behavior a priority as you study one of the most difficult people games ever invented. Moving beyond managing tilt, mental-game training is foundational because in the end, we compete against ourselves.
Ideally you advance through an athletic perspective. When you're fully present, and paying closer attention, you lay the groundwork for less pain, more joy, and new potential.
There’s nothing automatic about a strong mental game. These are muscles we grow. Sessions are the gym. Our mind does the reps and practice is all.
Mindset training in live cash
Based on years of training with mental-game legend Tommy Angelo, I take inspiration from Buddhist principles which can deliver less discomfort and more creativity. Beyond "stay calm and do the best you can," actionable mindset strategies are not just for poker's elite. Mindset is a peeled onion whose layers require time to explore and master.
There is a defined path to still the mind and slow the tougher moments so you feel more in control and take stronger lines. I help clients fine-tune performance in areas that include:
- Breath work and practicing presence
- Detachment and patience
- Session length and quitting
- Bankroll and VPIP
- Tilt and table talk
- Variance and downswings
- Mum poker and info wars
- Avoiding "compare and despair"
- Linking less pain and more joy to better ROI
A responsive approach
We'll investigate your stress points to find leaks that hold you back. A higher level of performance starts with a willingness to engage yourself, and the game, in thoughtful ways.
I've studied poker for over a decade, and can suggest training materials including books, videos, articles, podcasts, and streams. As a start, you might explore "Zen and the Art of Poker" and Jason Su's "The Joy of Poker"—two masterworks in advanced mindset work.
Fees
Sessions are one hour and can be in person, on the phone, or via Zoom (recorded on request). I charge a competitive $145 hourly rate for individual training as plug-and-play, meaning no contracts. As a bonus, if you're in Vegas, we can share a game so I can observe your play.
Credentials
I teach live-cash strategies for No Limit Hold'em. Privately and in major Strip poker rooms, I’ve played 1/3, 2/3, 2/5, 3/5, and 5/5/25 games. I've trained cash beginners, recs, and low-to-mid stakes grinders. I remain a passionate advocate for those curious about the game, especially women. I invite you to explore my journey under "Cards."
Let's connect
If you have questions, a first meet-and-greet is on me. Please reach out on the Contact page. For paid sessions, I will send a payment link once we book a time. I look forward to meeting you and sharing ideas about your poker ambitions!