Hi, I’m Dr. Isabelle Tay
I’m a psychologist, former professional athlete, and advocate for psychological wellbeing and athlete safety. I’ve spent my life exploring how people perform, thrive, and flourish under pressure — whether on the international stage, in the lab, or in daily life.
My mission is to improve how people understand and respond to stress, build resilience, and support mental health, making psychological science accessible so it can enhance wellbeing, safety, and performance.
My Journey
I began as a competitive dancesport athlete, competing in over 16 countries and winning 20 international titles, including the German Open and the Asian Continental Championships.
That journey led me to Stanford, where I earned a PhD in Developmental and Psychological Sciences. I developed psychological interventions showing how timely support can transform the way people perceive stress and challenges, boosting wellbeing.
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Recently, my story was featured in a TV documentary. Watch the replay below.
(English captions available).
What I Do
Behavioral Scientist
Stanford University | Universal Health
I focus on turning psychological research into practical tools that improve everyday wellbeing. I design data- and AI-powered approaches that make wellbeing support more personalized and accessible, while also working with my Stanford lab on a nationwide study to bring evidence-based programs into schools, aimed at boosting student wellbeing and academic success.
Speaker & Educator
I speak on psychological wellbeing, mental health, resilience, and safe sport, sharing insights from research and personal experience. I design curricula and interventions that are human-centered, practical, and evidence-based. As a passion, I also organize and host international events, including the World Games.
Education
PhD I Stanford University
Developmental & Psychological Sciences, 2023
MA I Stanford University
Psychology, 2022
BA I New York University
Psychology (Summa Cum Laude), 2017
Academic Awards
I’ve been recognized for my research and contributions to the field with awards including the Doris Aaronson Award for Outstanding Departmental Research and the John & Julia Lindsey Research Scholar at New York University.
My Values & Approach
CURIOSITY
& SCIENCE
Designing interventions and analyzing data to combine scientific rigor with real-world impact.
COLLABORATIOn
& LEADERSHIP
Developing policies, mentoring athletes, and leading international initiatives. Served as Safeguarding Officer and Medical Delegate for high-profile events such as the Olympic Games Paris 2024.
HEALTH
& WELLBEING
Helping individuals, teams, and communities thrive under stress.
CREATIVITY
&INNOVATION
Leveraging technology, design, and AI to deliver psychological support in ways that are engaging, personalized, and timely.
Connect With My Work
Explore my research, SPARK framework, safeguarding initiatives, innovation projects, and news features.