Trauma Informed Approaches
On the Yoga Mat and in the Office

The profession has identified for decades now the importance of “goodness of fit” between client and clinician, making the therapeutic alliance as one of the most important forces that influences positive treatment outcomes. The research into trauma, and its different types, has furthered this understanding and has realized that, “…trauma recovery happens in relationship…”, Judith Herman, MD. With the relationship as the central force of change and healing in the work, it is imperative that clinicians across treatment settings become familiar with the presentation of trauma in their respective settings. Clinicians improve therapeutic outcomes with all their clients from learning trauma sensitive techniques that enhance the client’s engagement, strengthen a healthy attachment style, and develop skills to use the body as a resource in their recovery.

The parallel process between how a clinician is supported to work with the client in a trauma informed and how the agency supports the clinician and the client to engage in the work will be explored. A specific focus on the agency’s supervisory style, the physical environment and the agency’s procedures and policies will be offered.