Yoga Therapy with

Paula J. Williams, MS, C-IAYT, RYT500

Yoga Therapy endeavors to alleviate any of the many and varied forms of suffering by empowering each client to make changes using the practices and philosophy of yoga. The Certified Yoga Therapist creates a safe, supportive environment for clients to share their personal stories. Collaboratively, they identify the most effective path forward to enhance the client’s mental, physical, and spiritual well-being, with the ultimate goal of promoting their overall health and vitality.

Yoga Therapy can address a wide range of physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health concerns, such as Migraine Disorder, persistent pain (low back, neck, shoulder), depression/anxiety, stress and burnout, neurological conditions (post-stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s), coping with cancer, managing symptoms from multiple diagnoses, and recovery from trauma. Yoga Therapy can serve as an adjunct to clinical care by assisting clients in developing self-compassion and adapting to their circumstances.

Paula is committed to staying abreast of the latest advancements in pain science, neuroscience, and studies involving yoga and yoga therapy. She believes that teaching clients about the physiological and psychological responses of their bodies and minds to pain signals and movement limitations can contribute to their optimal quality of life. Having experienced Migraine Disorder since the age of four, Paula possesses firsthand knowledge of the benefits of yoga practices and philosophy. She applied what she learned to her own body-mind during her trainings. The Yamas (how we interact with others) and Niyamas (personal discipline) helped her develop more kindness and compassion towards others as well as how to accept the present moment. Her anger and grief from the cancer deaths of her brother and father dissipated as she slowly changed her perspective on death. She practices gentle movement, meditation, and breathing during a migraine attack to dial down the pain response.

Paula spent several years using her Yoga Therapy skills with a small group of those recovering from stroke and traumatic brain injury. During this time she witnessed the remarkable progress these clients made through dedicated practice.

These are examples of how Yoga Therapy can enable individuals to lead productive and fulfilling lives, even amidst the challenges of pain. What has worked for her and others is only a small example of the tools she has in her toolbox to help you.

Certified Yoga Therapist Label