Unfolding Trauma through Movement
TCTSY (Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga) is an empirically-based, adjunct treatment for trauma such as relational trauma, PTSD & C-PTSD. It is not a replacement for therapy, rather an adjunct treatment.
What is TCTSY?
When an individual experiences trauma, it can disrupt their sense of self, the relationship with their body, their ability to make choices, and can affect interpersonal relationships. TCTSY provides an opportunity for safety so the participant can explore what it is like to reconnect to their body, notice what is happening in their body, and make choices based on what they notice in the present moment. Through choice making, participants can gain a sense of agency and empowerment. Core components of TCTSY are invitational language, non-coercion, interoception, choice making, and a shared authentic experience. The theory is based on Hatha Yoga, trauma theory, attachment theory, neuroscience, and intersectionality. Hatha yoga is used to create movement for healing through an embodied experience. It is a somatic approach to treatment based on the research by David Emerson and Bessel van Der Kolk. The facilitator guides participants through yoga movements and the breath while engaging in the practice with them. The participant is encouraged to take any forms that are useful to them. This practice will differ from traditional yoga classes.
To learn more visit: https://www.traumasensitiveyoga.com
Opportunity to Practice
-Being Present
-Making Choices
-Noticing body sensations
-Taking effective action
-Connect with self and others through the Shared Authentic Experience
Embodied Experience
Often in trauma, the person has to disconnect from their body to stay safe. Dissociation is a common example. The person that experienced trauma can also begin to have more awareness in their environment. TCTSY uses interoception to help the participant reconnect and befriend their body. The participant has an opportunity to make choices and take action based on what they may or may not notice.
TCTSY does not
-Offer physical or verbal assists
-Provide interpretations of the experiences
-Add judgment (right or wrong) to a participants experience
-Define the experience (comfortable, safe, relax)
-Engage in talk therapy or discuss the traumatic experiences
“Neuroscience research shows that the only way we can change the way we feel is by becoming aware of our inner experience and learning to befriend what is going on inside ourselves.”
— Bessel van der Kolk
What to expect next…
Contact Alexis Meyer through email: alexis@therapypaige.com or the contact tab to set up your free 15 minute consultation. During the consultation, you will discuss if TCTSY is right for you and discuss any important information that might be relevant to treatment.
Alexis Meyer has completed a 300-hour certification in TCTSY through the Center for Trauma and Embodiment at Justice Resource Institute. She is also a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200) through Yoga Alliance.
If TCTSY is right for you…
You will get the date, time, and address of the next group
Show up 5-10 minutes early if possible
No specific clothing is needed
Yoga mat can be provided or you can bring your own
No prior yoga experience/flexibility/strength required
Options
Private Sessions
TCTSY sessions can be provided privately where you can work one on one with the facilitator. This option can be helpful if you do not prefer the group setting, want more of a personalized experience, or have any other concerns about being in a group. This can also be integrated into individual therapy sessions.
Cost $90
Small Group
Small group sessions are provided in a 6 week or 8 week format. Group sizes vary from 5-7 people. The small group is a closed group, so once the group starts, no one else can join. This is done to create predictability and consistency.
Cost may vary $30-$40 per group session Sliding scale options available (pay as you can)
TCTSY in the Community
If you would like to bring TCTSY into your agency, hospital setting, treatment setting, school, or any other place you think TCTSY would be beneficial, please reach out. If your staff, clients, or patients have experienced psychological trauma, TCTSY could be helpful.
There is also availability for speaking engagements on the theory to mental health professionals and yoga instructors. Continuing education credits pending.
Cost varies and can be negotiated