Dr. Nicole Charles-Linen

Biography

Dr. Nicole Charles-Linen joined Duke Athletics in 2025 as Assistant Athletic Director for Mental Health & Performance. In this role, she leads the department's sport psychology and mental health services, supporting the well-being and performance of student-athletes across all 27 varsity programs. A licensed psychologist and Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC), Charles-Linen brings extensive experience in both clinical and performance psychology across collegiate, professional and international sport settings. Her prior roles include positions with the Denver Broncos and Texas Rangers, as well as clinical sport psychology roles at Auburn University and USA Track and Field. She has also worked in private practice and contracted roles supporting organizations and athletes across multiple levels. Charles-Linen earned her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) and Master of Psychology (Psy.M.) from Wright State University, where she also completed a Master of Business Administration with an interdisciplinary focus. She is a frequent presenter on topics including athlete mental health, performance mindset, DEI in sport and trauma-informed care. Her academic and professional background includes specialized training in correctional settings, group facilitation and community-based mental health outreach.