I have a Master of Science degree in Yoga Therapy, a postgraduate certificate in Ayurvedic Wellness Practices, and over 10 years of experience in the field of integrative mental health and yoga therapy. Integratively, I’ve worked with people experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, abuse, family conflict, stress and coping with life stressors, eating disorders, and low self-esteem, among others. I practice under the C-IAYT (Certified Yoga Therapist) credential through the International Association of Yoga Therapists.
Judy Thompson, MS
Judy Thompson has worked in yoga therapy and integrative mental health for over 10 years, offering a trauma-informed approach centered on choice, consent, and respect for each person’s pace. Her work invites people to relate to the body’s cues as useful information, supporting steadiness, self-trust, and nervous system regulation. She founded Sakala School of Integrative Teaching to provide integrative professional education that bridges neuroscience, contemplative philosophy, and trauma-informed methodology. Across programs, Sakala School emphasizes applied, body-based learning and trauma-aware facilitation skills designed for direct use in clinical, educational, and community settings.
Professional milieu
education background
Master of Science in Yoga Therapy
Bachelor of Science in Wellness & Alternative Medicine
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Ayurvedic Wellness Practices
Credentials & Certifications
Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT)
Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT 500)
Registered Yoga School Owner (RYS)
Meditation Teacher (iRest)
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Coaching
Sacred Flame Wisdom Tradition Healer Priestess (Jaguar Medicine Shamanism, Vedic Tantra, and Tibetan Buddhism)
Certificate of Applied Clinical Hypnosis with Psychological Treatment
Advanced Mindfulness-Art & Science of Self-Compassion
Tai Chi for Health and Wellness
Yoga & Mindfulness for Children
Lifeforce Yoga for Anxiety & Depression
Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
Reiki Master
Certified Jyotish Vedic Astrologer
Disability Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE)
Publications
Sakala Training Manual: 600+ pages
Sakala Yoga Teacher Card Deck: 100+ cards
48 Emotions, 48 Paths: Finding Balance with Emotions Using Dharana, a 48 Card Deck
Little Moments of Awe: A 36 Card Deck Using Tiny Wonders To Spark Connection, Joy, and Meaningful Exploration, a Card Deck for Kids
Quiet Rituals: A Pathway for Supporting the Nervous System Through Grief & Sorrow Following Dog Loss
Ground Beneath, Breath Above: A Card Deck Exploring Sensory Grounding and Connection, Designed to Guide Those Who Navigate Emotions Differently, particularly Alexithymia, Trauma Survivors, and Neurodiversity
Naldelon-The Systemic Response to Harm and Loss: Trauma-Aware Card Deck for Naming & Recognizing Systemic Harm