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Katherine Cooley

Katherine

Cooley

Katherine Cooley

Adjunct Faculty

Department
Mind-Body Medicine
Institution
Saybrook University
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Biography

Dr. Katie Scanlon Cooley, PhD, is an adjunct faculty member in the College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences at Saybrook University. She holds a doctorate in Mind-Body Medicine and brings an interdisciplinary perspective integrating somatic theory, contemplative practice, and humanistic inquiry. Her research examines embodiment, chronic tension, and the reciprocal relationship between physiological experience and psychological life, with particular interest in how mind-body processes shape meaning-making, self-experience, and wellbeing.

In addition to her academic role, Dr. Cooley is the founder of Joy Yoga Project in Spokane, Washington, where she develops integrative movement-based and contemplative education grounded in Katonah Yoga® methodology. A former member of the United States National Rowing Team, she brings a lifelong engagement with exploring the lived body into her teaching, research, and applied practice.

Education History
Degree Institution Year
B.A. University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 1992
Ph.D. Saybrook University, Pasadena, CA 2025
Professional Memberships
Role Organization
International Coaching Federation
National Board of Health and Wellness Coaching
Yoga Alliance
Community Involvement
Role Organization
Board Member Akhila Health
Curriculum Vitae
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Research

Embodiment

Heuristic Inquiry and Heuristic Self-Search Inquiry

Somatic dimensions of self-perception and identity

Integrative and movement-based therapeutic approaches

Contemplative and experiential models of learning

Mind–body practices in health and wellbeing
Publications
Book

Katherine Cooley (2025). The Song In Our Bones: Embodiment, Meaning and the Mind-Body Practices of Katonah Yoga. Spokane, WA: Joy Yoga Project.

Journal

Bentley, T. G. K., D’Andrea-Penna, G., Rakic, M., Arce, N., LaFaille, M., Berman, R., Cooley, K., & Sprimont, P. (2023). Breathing Practices for Stress and Anxiety Reduction: Conceptual Framework of Implementation Guidelines Based on a Systematic Review of the Published Literature.. Brain Sciences, 13 (12), 1612.