What is Yoga Therapy
An age-old Approach to Healing
What happens during a yoga therapy session?
Yoga Therapy approaches healing from an individualized perspective, and aims to improve physical, mental and emotional health. Yoga Therapists utilize Yogic tools such as Asana (physical movements), Pranayam (breath-control & training), Dhyana (meditation, chanting & mindfulness), and Sankalpa (affirmations). These ancient practices have been proven effective in clinical settings.
In sessions, clients will practice, learn and work through a protocol specifically designed for their individual needs and goals. A strong Yogic practice creates a holistic lifestyle and during sessions, clients will learn and practice while often taking home additional resources. Along with with audio/visual aids, clients may also take advantage of dietary and lifestyle recommendations based on Yogic principals that support their specific protocol.
A one-on-one practice, Yoga Therapy enables individuals to build a practice that blends into a lifestyle. Under the guidance of a trained therapist who actively seeks to understand the physical, mental, emotional, and environmental circumstances of their clients, individuals are empowered to take an active role in shaping their practice.
Yoga Therapy begins with a 90 minute intake session. During this time, clients can expect a detailed discussion regarding their health, lifestyle, home/work environments as well as their goals. Additionally, the therapist will discuss whether yoga therapy is likely to help the client, and provide an estimate of the number, frequency and duration of appointments. The Yoga therapist will also work with the client to schedule time for at home practice.
A typical Yoga Therapy session ranges from 50-90 minutes and includes:
A check-in to discuss progress of at home practices
A review to discuss any changes in mental and physical health, as well as any changes in environment or support structure.
Practice- working through techniques and tools to regularly revisit at home, between sessions. At home practice is supplemented with take-home materials including; printed sequences as well as audio and video aids.
What Types of Conditions Can Yoga Therapy Help With?
Yoga therapy can help with a variety of mental and physical health conditions. Some common conditions we work with include: anxiety disorders, PTSD, trauma, depression, addiction, eating disorders, obesity, autoimmune disease, heart disease, neurological disorders, and cancer support.
Some people seek relief from stress or difficult life transitions, while others look for help with managing illness, pain, or fatigue. Whatever the reasons for seeking yoga therapy, a trained yoga therapist can help develop a personalized approach to facilitate healing. A more complete list of conditions is located here.
In a yoga therapy setting, suffering is always self-diagnosed. The only requirement for working with a yoga therapist is a desire to feel better and a willingness to take action towards achieving that goal.
How much does yoga therapy cost?
Yoga therapy rates are usually in line with private talk therapy rates in your area. These rates typically range from $165 – $280+ depending on where you live. Most clients see a yoga therapist for 4 – 6 sessions, which is a total investment of about $600 – $1,200 to find ongoing relief. The limited duration of the work makes yoga therapy a very attractive investment in one’s health.
Do yoga therapists take insurance?
In the United States, health insurance does not currently cover yoga therapy. However, you can reimburse yourself for yoga therapy services from your health savings account (HSA) or flexible spending account (FSA) with a doctor’s letter of medical necessity.
How can I find a yoga therapist?
For help finding a local yoga therapist in Connecticut or via telehealth, contact Leela Yoga. We can help you set up a consultation to find out if yoga therapy is right for you.
What types of conditions Can yoga therapy help with?
Yoga Therapy is applied for various mental and physical health conditions, the most common are anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, addiction, cancer care, heart disease, neurological disorders, autoimmune conditions, and degenerative disease symptom management.
Yoga Therapy is also utilized in prenatal and postpartum care.
Some people seek relief from stress or difficult life transitions, while others look for help with managing illness, pain, or fatigue. Whatever the reasons for seeking yoga therapy, a trained yoga therapist can help develop a personalized approach to facilitate healing. A more complete list of conditions is located here.
In a yoga therapy setting, suffering is always self-diagnosed. The only requirement for working with a yoga therapist is a desire to feel better and a willingness to take action towards achieving that goal.