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Biography

Sports Psychologist | Academic Lecturer | Creative Arts and Holistic Healer Therapist

Welcome to my space dedicated to healing, personal growth, and holistic well-being. I am Gülay Yasemin Aldemir Thomas, and I bring a unique blend of academic excellence, creative arts, and therapeutic expertise to my work. With over two decades of experience in sports psychology and holistic healing, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals from ages 7 to 70, fostering resilience, health, and happiness through personalized practices.

My Educational Journey

My commitment to understanding the mind-body connection began with my academic studies in Turkey:

  • Bachelor’s Degree: Faculty of Physical Education and Sports Sciences, Marmara University, Turkey (1998-2003)

  • Master’s Degree: Sports Psychology, Marmara University, Turkey (2008-2010)

  • Doctorate: Sports Psychology, Marmara University, Turkey (2010-2013)

  • Postdoctoral Research: Visiting Scholar, University of Hawaii at Manoa, HI, USA (2017-2019)

These experiences reflect my dedication to advancing knowledge in sports sciences and psychology, leading to innovative therapeutic approaches and meaningful research.

My Professional Experience

Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to combine academic insights with hands-on expertise:

  • Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey (2007-2023)

    • Lecturer in Sports Psychology

    • Dance, Drama, and Yoga Instructor

    • Creative Arts Therapist

    • Conducted workshops and research in movement education, sports psychology, and educational psychology for children aged 5-11.

  • Founder & Director, Hawaii Holistic Healer (2020-Present)

    • Created a holistic healing academy merging sports, health, arts, and psychology.

    • Provide psychological performance consulting and creative arts therapy both online and in private sessions.

  • Edmonds College, WA, USA (2023-2024)

    • Academic English student, further enhancing my ability to connect with diverse audiences.

My Specialized Skills

My expertise spans multiple disciplines, creating a dynamic and impactful practice:

  • Working with Children: I specialize in game-based physical activity education for children aged 5-11.

  • Physical Activity and Game-Based Learning: I use engaging, interactive methods to enhance learning and development.

  • Educational Psychology: I focus on supporting mental health and growth through evidence-based practices.

My Holistic Philosophy

I believe in integrating sports, health, arts, and psychology to create a truly holistic healing experience. My approach is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses the innate ability to heal and grow. I am passionate about guiding clients through their healing journeys, helping them achieve balance, spiritual well-being, and personal development.

Therapeutic Services

I offer a range of services designed to nurture both body and soul:

  • One-on-one therapy sessions

  • Group workshops

  • Holistic healing programs

  • Online and in-person consultations

Let me guide you on a transformative journey of healing and self-discovery. Explore my unique blend of academic rigor and creative expression—a perfect harmony of mind, body, and spirit.

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