The desire to win defines all competition. Poker is no different. Successful cash players know what optimal performance feels like. Hand for hand, they know how to command their A-game and get over the finish line more often because they've devoted countless hours getting better at it. In a word, they've trained for positive consistent results.
I'm Sasha. I know first hand that mindset work is the gift that delivers across our poker lives.
Poker is a beast of a game and for many, mental baggage happens—our history, a weak competitive skill set, how we deal with pressure. Mindset work starts with being aware of the "self-talk." Negative and punitive "inside voices" like to sabotage. They're often connected to a fear of failure, even a fear of success. Tilt, shame, self-hatred, criticism, and other states of mind can make us feel less in control, less composed, less capable.
When we focus our attention on how we feel, and what we're thinking, more is possible as we learn to perform at a higher potential. Treat mental-game work as strategic and tactical, like every other essential moving part of our poker education because in the end, we play against ourselves.
The mental game in live cash
Our thoughts determine our actions. Based on years of study with mindset legend Tommy Angelo, I take inspiration from Buddhist principles which can deliver less pain and more focus. Beyond "stay calm and do the best you can," actionable mental-game strategies are not just for elites.
Players at every level can learn to still the mind, consciously observe one's play, and slow the harder moments down so the lines we take ultimately serve us and protect bankroll. Should you want to move beyond casual play, we can fine tune how you grow your awareness in areas that include:
- Detachment and patience
- Session length and quitting
- Bankroll and VPIP
- Tilt and table talk
- ROI and downswings
- Mum poker and info wars
- Devices and paying close attention
Custom approach
Like snowflakes, no two players are alike. I thoroughly investigate your unique stress points so together we can understand how you might change your thinking, and uncover weaknesses in your play that are holding you back.
As a start, I can suggest behavioral changes that can shift how you're feeling, judging, and thinking about your play. Live cash is tribal, and players often imitate bad habits. A first step may be creating new structures—developing different frequency and betting strategies, for instance, that can bring an immediate and greater sense of control.
I've studied the game for over a decade, and can suggest materials including books, videos, articles, podcasts, and streams. As a start, you might explore "Zen and the Art of Poker," a masterwork in advanced mindset analysis.
Fees
Sessions are one hour and can be in person, on the phone, or via Zoom (recorded on request). I charge a competitive $100 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.
Credentials
I teach live-cash strategies for live NLHE. Privately and in major Strip casinos, I’ve played 1/2, 1/3, 2/5, and 5/5/25 games. I also play online. I remain a passionate advocate especially for women curious about poker, and invite you to explore my journey under "Cards."
Let's connect
If you have questions, first meet-and-greet consults are complimentary. 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!