Dr. Kelley, RYT 500

Jessica Palmen, RYT 200

Yoga therapy is a self-empowering process, where the client, with the help of the Yoga therapist, implements a personalized and evolving Yoga practice, that not only addresses illness in a multi-dimensional manner, but also aims to alleviate suffering in a progressive, non-invasive and complementary manner.  Yoga therapy, derived from the Yoga tradition of Patanjali and the Ayurvedic system of health care refers to the adaptation and application of Yoga techniques and practices to help individuals facing physical and mental health challenges at any level manage their condition, reduce symptoms, restore balance, increase vitality, and improve attitude.

Depending upon the nature of the illness, Yoga therapy can not only be preventative or curative, but also serve as a means to manage the illness, or facilitate healing in the person at all levels.

At Kelley Counseling & Wellness, Yoga therapy sessions are provided by Dr. Kelley who is a certified and registered Yoga teacher and Jessica Palmen, RYT 200.  Between the two teachers, they focus on Trauma Sensitive Yoga, Yoga for 12 Step Recovery, Yin Yoga, and Vinyasa Yoga. Dr. Kelley can also integrate Art Therapy, Chakra Balancing and IFS work within the Yoga practice when it suits the client's process. The practice is tailored for your individual needs and Yoga treatment plans to implement in home practice can be provided upon your request. 

What is Trauma Sensitive Yoga?

Sessions may consist of multiple parts, where the teacher might use more traditional talk-therapy techniques.  Depending on what is going on in the client’s life or their needs at the time, this can help the client to set an intention to help guide the them through their practice.

​Although each session will be individualized to meet the needs of the client, we do incorporate a model called Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) where you can expect the following in a session:

1. The teacher will offer multiple modifications and use of invitational language - this is to promote a sense of empowerment, making each part of the practice completely optional and encouraging the client to choose for themselves. 

2. The teacher will invite the client to shift attention to present moment experience- By inviting clients to notice what they are experiencing during the practice, this can promote a connection with the body that is often disrupted as a result of trauma. 

3. The teacher will be doing the practice with you- This is to promote a shared, authentic experience and less of a power dynamic.  There will be no touch or assists in the practice.



Adapted from www.iayt.org