251 Integrating Yoga Into Therapy | How to Tailor Practices To Each Client: Episode By Chris McDonald
Yoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
Release Date: 09/03/2025
Yoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this farewell episode of the 'Yoga in the Therapy Room' podcast, I reflect on my journey through podcasting over the last five years, with 257 episodes, countless guests, and a significant global impact. I discuss the meaningful connections, personal growth, and valuable lessons learned about integrating yoga into therapy. I will share five major lessons I learned from the importance of authentic connection among therapists, the holistic nature of yoga, the power of vulnerability, and the courage to begin without all the answers. This episode is a tribute to all the listeners, guests, and...
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this episode, we introduce a unique approach to therapy involving therapeutic boxing. Joined by licensed therapist and boxer Aaron Post, this episode explores how boxing can serve as a powerful tool for releasing tension, building confidence, and fostering body awareness. Aaron shares his journey into boxing and how he integrates it into therapeutic practices, especially for clients with trauma, ADHD, and autism. The discussion highlights the parallels between boxing and yoga, emphasizing movement, mindful breathing, and body awareness. Practical approaches to incorporating boxing into...
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this episode, we talk to Beena Patel, a physician assistant, holistic healer, and cancer survivor. Beena shares her personal journey with cancer at age 21 and how it led her to explore the limitations of traditional medicine. We discuss the importance of integrating the mind, body, and spirit for true healing, the benefits of individualized care, and how practices like yoga, Reiki, and somatic healing can bring about real transformation. The limitations of traditional medicine Nervous system regulation in healing Exploring healing and somatic practices The importance of pausing and...
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this episode, we go into how energy medicine can complement traditional talk therapy. Mary Grigsby, a seasoned therapist trained in both traditional and alternative healing modalities, discusses her approach to integrating energy medicine into psychotherapy. The conversation covers practical energy medicine techniques, the role of the body's energy systems in emotional regulation, and ethical considerations. Mary also demonstrates several simple energy medicine practices that listeners can try immediately. Ethical considerations and training Energy medicine techniques for trauma and...
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this episode, we discuss integrating yoga into therapeutic practices. Kaleigh, who combines traditional talk therapy with yoga, emphasizes the power of movement, breath, and mindfulness as therapeutic tools. We discuss how Kaleigh uses yoga to help trauma survivors reconnect with their bodies, the role of trauma-informed language, and practical strategies for incorporating yoga into therapy sessions. Kaleigh shares her journey of discovering yoga, its integration with EMDR and parts work, and offers a demonstration of a yoga practice aimed at grounding and releasing tension. ...
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this episode, we discuss the benefits of the Alexander technique (AT). We discuss how subtle shifts in posture and awareness can impact breathing, and explore the concept of air hunger, its effects on the nervous system, and why some breath practices might be unsafe for certain clients. Simon shares his personal journey with breathing issues, the transformative power of the Alexander technique, and practical strategies for therapists to integrate breath and somatic awareness into their sessions. They also go into the importance of gentle approaches and mindfulness in breathwork, especially...
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this episode, we discuss practical strategies for integrating yoga into therapy sessions in a personalized way. We will go over assessing clients' readiness and needs, matching techniques to specific moments, and using attunement to enhance the yoga experience. We also discuss the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship, monitoring clients' responses in real-time, and adapting practices accordingly. Connect With Me Instagram: Join the private Facebook Group:
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this episode, we discuss the significance of Trauma-Aware Yoga Therapy for women healing from trauma. We explore how traditional therapy can be complemented by reconnecting with the body, breath, and nervous system. Keri shares her journey into yoga therapy, her holistic approach integrating body, mind, spirit, and life, and her extensive experience supporting women through somatic practices. We also discuss the importance of personalized yoga therapy, being trauma-informed, and partnering with mental health professionals. Keri offers a soothing somatic yoga practice for listeners,...
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this encore episode, featuring a discussion with clinical mental health counselor Katelyn Jakobsen, we explore integrating sensory-motor psychotherapy into therapeutic practices, particularly for clients with chronic illness and self-esteem issues. We go into the importance of using the body in therapy for a holistic healing approach, contrasting traditional talk therapy with sensory-motor strategies and attuning to bodily sensations, movements, and posture to aid in trauma processing and improving mind-body awareness. Understanding Sensory Motor Psychotherapy Practical applications...
info_outlineYoga in the Therapy Room: Tips for integrating trauma informed yoga
In this episode, we discuss the practicalities and challenges of incorporating yoga into clinical therapy sessions. I share personal insights and lessons learned, focusing on ethical gray zones, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the importance of intentional practice. We address common fears and misconceptions, offer practical advice on documentation and informed consent, and emphasize the transformative impact of yoga on both therapists and clients. Connect With Me Instagram: Join the private Facebook Group:
info_outlineIn this episode, we discuss practical strategies for integrating yoga into therapy sessions in a personalized way. We will go over assessing clients' readiness and needs, matching techniques to specific moments, and using attunement to enhance the yoga experience. We also discuss the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship, monitoring clients' responses in real-time, and adapting practices accordingly.
How to build confidence and competence bringing yoga into the therapy room
Connect With Me
The Yoga in Therapy Collective
Yoga Basics: The Therapist's Guide to Integrating Trauma-Informed Yoga into Sessions
Instagram: @chris_mcdonald58
Join the private Facebook Group: Bringing Yoga Into the Therapy Room