About The Institute of Gelotology
Our Mission
The Institute of Gelotology is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the study of laughter and its physiological and psychological effects on the human body. We bridge the gap between performing arts and behavioral science, using the stage as a living laboratory to explore how humor can mitigate anxiety and improve cognitive function.
The Intersection of Humor and Science
Our work focuses on how humor engages specific neurological pathways—specifically the ventromedial prefrontal cortex and the amygdala—to regulate emotional responses. While our research observes these effects on the brain, our data collection and analysis are performed by a multidisciplinary team of professionals dedicated to rigorous research protocols, including:
Licensed Clinicians: Therapists who integrate humor-informed care into active clinical practice.
Academic Researchers: PhDs and graduate students specializing in Cognitive Science, Psychology, and Social Work.
Practitioner-Researchers: Mental health professionals following evidence-based protocols to document the efficacy of humor as a therapeutic intervention.
Our Core Pillars
1. Workshops & Education
Our curriculum is designed to provide therapeutic value through structured performance art. Our offerings include:
Humor-Informed Care: Individual and group psychotherapy delivered by licensed clinicians using targeted humor intervention techniques.
Mindfulness Improv Comedy: Workshops designed to promote mindfulness, active listening, and emotional resilience, creating a safe space to practice adapting to uncertainty.
Comedic Narrative Storytelling: A process of self-reflection through cognitive reframing, empowering participants to destigmatize personal struggles through vulnerable storytelling.
Character Growth Sketch Comedy: Developing character arcs using emotional intelligence (EQ) to practice healthy communication and collaborative problem-solving.
Satirical Cinema Production: Guiding participants to produce short visual narratives that externalize personal challenges and critique societal stigmas, fostering agency and perspective-taking.
2. Showcases & Events
Our public showcases serve as vital data collection environments. We observe and survey audience responses to understand the immediate impact of satirical storytelling and performance on stress reduction and community connection.
3. Research & Publication
Data gathered from our participants is synthesized into formal research papers. These findings are published in the Journal of Applied Gelotology (JOAG), providing peer-reviewed insights into how laughter-based interventions can be integrated into modern mental health practices.
Our Leadership
Yamalieu Khuu, CEO & President: A multicultural mental health professional and comedy producer leading the intersection of clinical research and performance.
Alexander Tron, CFO & Treasurer: A reentry attorney and founder of Jest Comedy with a focus on the social impact of humor.
Abisha Uhl, Secretary & Chief of Records: A veteran community liaison and cinematic professional dedicated to satirical storytelling and documentation.