Q: I’ve never done Yoga before, is Yoga for me?

A: Prior experience with yoga is not required, nor is any particular state of physical health.  Some of our clients are unable to stand or walk while others are experienced yogis.

 

Q: What is the difference between Yoga and “Yoga Therapy”?

A: Yoga Therapists generally work one-on-one or with small therapeutic groups to evaluate an individual's imbalances and to determine how these imbalances contribute to a person's overall well-being.  They then work with the individual using some of the tools of yoga including breath, meditation and asana to bring the individual back into balance or optimal health.

"Yoga" taught in group classes utilizes breath, meditation and asana in specific sequences in an attempt to fulfill a particular goal or intention deemed appropriate for the current students.

 

Q: I’ve been told to avoid certain activities, is Yoga/ Yoga Therapy safe for me?

A: It probably is.  Our therapist has 25+ years in treating a variety of physical and physiological impairments and is very comfortable with her knowledge of contraindications. However, you may wish to, or be asked to, have your physician fill out a Medical Release Form if you have concerns.

 

Q: What is the difference between traditional medical treatment (including Physical Therapy) and Yoga Therapy?

A: The biggest difference is that in the "medical model", we seek to treat a specific illness or injury ("you are sick"); in the yoga therapy model, we seek to see the individual and recognize, evaluate and address the many factors contributing to that person's well-being at any given time ("your body is sick"). 

The second biggest difference is that yoga therapists do not seek to "prescribe" or "treat".  Yoga therapy is a more interactive process.  Your healing comes from your increased awareness, your willingness to change and your actions - you find YOUR way to heal yourself.

 

Q: What kind of training or certifications do Yoga Therapists have?

A: Currently there are no specific standards or licensure for yoga therapists.  Our therapist has a Masters of Physical Therapy and Masters in Public Health as well as completion of a 200-hour Yoga Alliance certified Yoga Instructor program and extensive training with the Professional Yoga Therapy School (a school which exclusively educates licensed health care professionals to be master clinicians of medical yoga therapy through evidence-based, adaptive yoga therapy CE programs).

 

Q: I’ve been told to avoid certain activities, is Yoga/ Yoga Therapy safe for me?

A: It probably is.  Our therapist has 25+ years in treating a variety of physical and physiological impairments and is very comfortable with her knowledge of contraindications. However, you may wish to, or be asked to, have your physician fill out a Medical Release Form if you have concerns.

 

Q: How many times will I need to come?

A:  This very much depends on you and our assessment.  During the first session, we will agree upon a plan which may include 1 or more private sessions, participation in a small therapeutic group or a larger non-therapeutic group or you may choose to work with the personalized home program without further personalized instruction.

 

Q: How much does a private session cost?

A:  Please see our page on “Our services" and select the session type you are interested in for payment information.

 

Q: Will my insurance pay for private session?

A:  Currently we do not submit documentation for insurance payment.  In some cases, insurance will allow you to be reimbursed for care provided by a licensed physical therapist with a doctor's referral (contact your insurance company).  If you have a diagnosed condition, your care may be tax deductible.

 

Q: Do I need a Doctor or Provider Prescription of referral?

A:  No, but we will accept referrals from your physician or other health care provider should you wish to discuss this with him or her first.  In addition, we will be glad to provide him or her with professional copies of your evaluation and progress notes.

 

Q: What do I need to bring to my first appointment?

 A:  No special equipment is required; we will provide any necessary equipment or props.  Please bring your completed Intake Form which can be downloaded on the website and be prepared with any questions you may have. Clients often find it helpful to bring a digital camera or tape recorder for improved learning but this is not required.