If you're a serious golfer in Southern California, you know that shaving strokes off your game isn't just about a perfect swing plane. It's about what happens between your ears. The best coaches in this region don't just fix your
The Rise of the Mental Game in Golf Instruction
Golf instruction in Southern California has evolved far beyond the traditional 'keep your head down' advice. Today's top coaches blend biomechanics with sports psychology, using tools like TrackMan and video analysis to break down every angle of your swing. But the real game-changer is the growing emphasis on mental performance. Coaches like Dr. Alison Curdt and Kaila Higgins are leading a shift where confidence, focus, and resilience are taught as deliberately as grip and stance. For golfers in SoCal, this means you can find a coach who doesn't just fix your slice—they help you handle the pressure of a $20 Nassau or a club championship.
How We Ranked These Coaches
We evaluated each coach on four criteria: credentials (PGA/LPGA certifications, awards, and education), pricing relative to market, specialization in mental game training, and accessibility (location, lesson formats, and flexibility). Coaches who offered a unique blend of technical and psychological instruction scored higher. We also considered their reputation among serious amateurs and competitive players in the Southern California golf community.
Here's a quick comparison of the five coaches. Use this table to see which one fits your needs and budget.
| Provider | Best For |
|---|---|
| Dr. Alison Curdt Golf Instruction | Golfers who want a world-class instructor with a psychology PhD |
| Urban Golf Performance | Serious amateurs and competitive players seeking a holistic performance system |
| Justin Hicks Golf (Hicks Golf) | Golfers who want video-based swing analysis and structured schools |
| Kaila Rose Higgins (Kailagolfs) | Golfers seeking integrated mental game coaching with flexible lesson locations |
| Leonia Kim Golf Instruction | Women golfers in LA looking for a skilled, approachable female instructor |
Deep Dive: The Best Golf Coaches in Southern California for Mental and Technical Growth
#1 Dr. Alison Curdt Golf Instruction
A screenshot of the Dr. Alison Curdt Golf Instruction website.
Dr. Alison Curdt is one of only two women in the world holding both PGA Master Professional and LPGA Master Professional titles. She also holds a doctorate in psychology, which means she doesn't just teach you where to put your hands—she teaches you how to handle pressure on the 18th hole. Based at Wood Ranch Golf Club in Simi Valley, she's been named a Golf Digest Top 50 Teacher in America. Her premium pricing reflects her elite credentials, but if you want a coach who understands the brain as well as the backswing, she's worth every penny. Source
#2 Urban Golf Performance
A screenshot of the Urban Golf Performance website.
Urban Golf Performance isn't just a coaching studio—it's a tour-level performance system. With locations across Southern California, they integrate coaching, fitness, recovery, and club fitting under one roof. Their results speak for themselves: they developed the PGA Tour U #1 in 2024 and the Korn Ferry Tour Rookie of the Year. If you're serious about taking your game to the next level, this is a one-stop shop that treats your body and your swing as a single system. Source
#3 Justin Hicks Golf (Hicks Golf)
A screenshot of the Justin Hicks Golf website.
Justin Hicks is a PGA Teaching Professional based in San Diego who made Golf Digest's 'America's 50 Best Teachers' list in 2013. His private lessons run $150 per hour and include video analysis—so you can see exactly what your swing is doing wrong. He also offers short game schools, half-day golf schools, and play-with-the-pro sessions. If you want a proven teacher who uses technology to accelerate your learning, Justin is a solid bet. Source
#4 Kaila Rose Higgins (Kailagolfs)
A screenshot of the Kaila Higgins Golf website.
Kaila Rose Higgins offers personalized golf coaching and mental training services across Southern California. Her lessons range from $150 to $250, and she emphasizes confidence-building and skill development for golfers of all levels. What sets her apart is her focus on the mental side of the game—she helps you overcome anxiety, stay focused, and trust your swing under pressure. She even offers traveling lessons, so she can meet you at your home course. If you're looking for a coach who treats the mind as seriously as the mechanics, Kaila is a great fit. Source
#5 Leonia Kim Golf Instruction
A screenshot of the Leonia Kim Golf Instruction website.
Leonia Kim is a PGA-certified golf instructor serving the Los Angeles area. Her private lessons are $170 per hour, with series discounts available, and she teaches all ages and skill levels. As a female-led coaching business in the same SoCal market, she offers a relatable and encouraging environment for women golfers. While she doesn't emphasize mental training as heavily as some others on this list, her technical instruction is solid and her pricing is competitive. Source
How to Choose the Right Golf Coach for You
Start by asking yourself what you need most. Are you struggling with the yips or tournament nerves? Look for a coach with a psychology background like Dr. Alison Curdt or Kaila Higgins. Do you want a full-system approach with fitness and club fitting? Urban Golf Performance is your best bet. If you prefer a traditional, tech-driven lesson with video analysis, Justin Hicks delivers. And if you're a woman golfer who wants a relatable female instructor in LA, Leonia Kim is a great choice. Always book a trial lesson first—most coaches offer single sessions. Pay attention to how well they communicate and whether their teaching style matches your learning style.
Automate Your Practice and Booking
Once you pick a coach, streamline your progress by using scheduling tools like Calendly or CoachNow to book lessons and track drills. Many coaches offer video upload platforms where you can send swing clips for remote feedback. Set up a recurring weekly lesson slot to build momentum. For mental training, use apps like Headspace or GolfPsych to reinforce what you learn in sessions. Automation isn't just for business—it can keep your practice consistent and your mind sharp.
Your Next Step on the Course
Southern California is a goldmine for golf instruction, especially if you want a coach who understands the mental side of the game. Whether you choose a master professional like Dr. Alison Curdt or a rising star like Kaila Higgins, the key is to commit to the process. Book a lesson, show up with an open mind, and watch your scores drop. The best investment you can make in your golf game is the one that trains both your swing and your mind.