About THE Lab
At PiVT Lab, everything we do is rooted in relationship because real growth happens in connection. Whether you’re an individual or a team, we offer evidence-based support from trained clinicians and former athletes to help you build the skills for performance, emotional wellness, leadership, and more.
Meet the Team
MADDIE BLYER, MA.ED, LPC
My pivot began after a series of back injuries ended my collegiate basketball career and my physical, mental, and social health went down the gutter. I became acutely aware of the stress of major transitions, the cost of always doing what I thought I “should” do, and the lack of proactive and preventative healthcare. This experience lit a fire in me.
After rethinking my path, I secured a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in addition to my bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science. I worked in a private therapy practice and as a lead counselor at the Cleveland Clinic, where I implemented behavioral healthcare in sports-camp settings to help families and individuals thrive. It became clear to me that we can utilize our mind, our body, and our relationships to improve our health and lives at large.
Life and work blend really beautifully for me. You can find me in a gym, somewhere near water, or at a coffee shop. When I am not “working,” I am probably walking my dog (a 90 pounder named Nugget) and embracing the magic powers of chips and guac. Oh, and here’s a pic from that one time I met Jason Sudeikis.
Mikayla Dearing, MA
With dual training in school counseling and clinical mental health, Mikayla combines a decade of coaching experience with a deep understanding of athlete development. She has coached across multiple sports in various Stark County schools and — as a former collegiate soccer and track athlete — has firsthand experience on the specific stressors of team and individual sports.
Her approach is rooted in curiosity and practical action, helping athletes uncover what drives them, work through challenges at the source, and build personalized strategies for growth. She doesn’t believe in one-size-fits-all… she believes in helping athletes thrive on their own terms.
“Outside of work, I love exploring new places, soaking up the sun by the pool, and recharging with family dinners. Being an aunt brings me so much joy and my golden retriever, Finley, is my constant companion. Whether it's staying active or dreaming up my next adventure, I'm always chasing the balance between purpose and play.”
LINDSEY GAUT, BA
Lindsey is our resident hoops guru (in addition to her role as an early childhood education and intervention specialist). She has a history of basketball success— from her time on court at Fairless High School to her collegiate career at Ashland University. As a varsity coach, she earned District IV Division II Coach of the Year honors and, as a Special Olympics coach for the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities, she continues to impact lives through coaching.
With a deep belief in the importance of mental health, Lindsey effortlessly incorporates mindset training into her on-court work with athletes. She enjoys consulting with coaches and running sessions with teams. She works individually and in-tandem with Maddie for on-court training intensives and consultations.
“Outside of coaching, I’m in the classroom teaching, and when summer rolls around, I soak up every minute with my family and my dog, Murphy. I love to travel, attend church, and be an aunt to 7 amazing little humans.”
Ready to get clarity on what works for your TEAM?
Fill out the form below and someone from our team will be in touch with you soon.