Practical · Confidential · Built for Pilots
Mental Fitness for the Flight Deck
Practical, confidential coaching and training for pilots, instructors, and flight schools navigating the pressure of flying.
*Counts pilots Shannon coached one-to-one ahead of a checkride. Individual results are not guaranteed.
What Brings You Here?
Pick the one that sounds most like you. Each option leads to a free tool or the right next step.
I'm anxious about my checkride.Checkride 101 →
Training is harder than I expected.Pre-Flight Stress Check-In →
I keep second-guessing myself.1:1 Coaching →
I'm stressed, tired, or running on empty.Career Pilot Mental Fitness Check →
I'm struggling as an instructor.CFI Burnout Barometer →
I'm responsible for a whole training program.Flight School Programs →
Support Built for Where You Are in Aviation
Student, Private & Career Pilots
Confidential 1:1 coaching for checkride nerves, second-guessing, stress, burnout, and career transitions.
- Single sessions, ongoing coaching, or monthly membership
- Dedicated Checkride Prep Session
- Free self-checks for students and career pilots
Flight Instructors
Support for instructors carrying their students' pressure on top of their own workload and career goals.
- CFI Burnout Barometer, free and confidential
- 1:1 coaching for instructors
- Instructor feedback and communication training
Programs, Departments & Associations
Stress-management, confidence, and performance training built into your pilot pipeline, from flight schools and university programs to corporate flight departments and associations.
- Workshops for students and instructors
- Monthly checkride readiness sessions
- Member webinars, live or virtual
Where Counseling Expertise Meets Aviation Reality
Founded by Shannon Torres (a private pilot, Master's-level counselor, and former Part 121 airline professional), Aviation Conversations combines clinical training with first-hand knowledge of the training environment pilots operate in.
Programs are confidential and not reported to the FAA, and individual conversations aren't shared with the school, so pilots have a safe channel to address stress and build confidence without risking their certificate or career. Shannon also serves as Director of Training, Pilot Peer Support for AeroPeer, and Aviation Conversations partners with FlightTraq to bring these tools directly into flight instructors' workflow.
What Pilots and Partners Say
Up until now, I've believed that I'm right on the edge of not succeeding, that I am not a very good pilot… I feel more confident and self-assured now, and I could not have done it without your help!
“I always feel more confident going into my rides after talking with you.”The morning she passed her multi-engine checkride
“I completed the Instrument Checkride for the second time and I was able to pass. I followed your advice and everything went well. I will forever be grateful.”
Edwin Garcia MelendezInstrument Rated Pilot
“My one-time coaching appointment with Shannon included clarifying questions, space and time to process emotions, and tools that were genuinely helpful for my aviation journey.”
Jenni L.CFII, Flight Instructor
“Aviation Conversations helps pilots navigate human-behavior challenges with a measurable impact on readiness and performance.”
Robert RockmakerPresident, FSAI (Flight School Association International)
See Where Things Stand in Under 5 Minutes
Free, confidential self-assessments built for pilots, students, and CFIs. No name or email required.
From the Flight Deck
Practical conversations about stress, confidence, performance, training, and the human side of aviation.
You Don't Have to Figure This Out Alone
Pilots and CFIs can book a free 15-minute discovery call. Flight schools and organizations can schedule an intro call about a program for their team.
This is coaching, not therapy or medical treatment: everything we discuss stays confidential and is not reported to the FAA, your employer, or your flight school, and it's not a substitute for care from a licensed mental health or medical professional.