Frequently Asked Questions
what style of yoga do you teach?
I use a therapeutic, person-centered behavioral health model incorporating theory and practices of yoga and yoga's sister science, Ayurveda. My specific training draws from the knowledge bases of physical therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, perinatal health, and trauma sensitive care. I am a member of the International Association of Yoga Therapy, and of the Yoga Alliance Registry.
what does c-iayt mean and who can hold this designation?
C-IAYT is an International Association of Yoga Therapy Certified Yoga Therapist. It means a minimum of 850 hours of training compared with the standard 200-hour yoga programs, and at least 100 hours of supervision in private practice. The International Association of Yoga Therapy has a stict code of ethics, and requires those who have been Certified to complete annual Continuing Education hours. All of this additional training takes time and means that any yoga therapist who is also C-IAYT also has had thousands of teaching hours. Over the course of my life, I have completed two 200-hour level trainings, a 350-hour training, multiple 20-hour trainings and teaching immersions, a 24-month Pilates apprenticeship, and continue my education. As a child I was an initiate of Surat Shabd Yoga and learned a meditation practice around age 6.
What makes an iayt yoga therapy certification program distinct from other programs?
My Yoga Therapy Professional training program at DAYA Foundation was unique in many ways. This two year Yoga Therapy training program included one year of Adaptive Yoga protocol (case studies, research, hands-on training working with hip/knee replacement, post/pre-operative modifications, MS, Parkinson’s, perinatal health, disc issues, repetitive stress/joint issues). The following year was yoga philosophy, Ayurveda, and Interpersonal Neurobiology with mental health protocol (case studies, research, hands-on training with addiction, eating disorders, anxiety/depression).
Our teachers also trained us to advocate for yoga therapy as an accessible, cost-effective, Biopsychosocial model of complementary care. I give presentations on my work often.
do you have a specialty or focus?
Most private clients and I work together long term on specific health issues. Since stress is a prime factor in health, the practices of self-acceptance, resilience, and self-awareness are strong themes. My success rates with clients diagnosed with frozen shoulder, generalized anxiety disorder, and pelvic floor issues are the highest.
What are your protocols in a session?
I look at humans through yoga philosophy. A layered model of “self”, the Kosha model, from ancient yogic texts. We are not just bodies and brains, we are complex beings affected by our life stage, the seasons, daily routines or lack thereof, conditioning, culture. No matter what the presenting concern, I assess through this lens.
Initial intake and assessments include a holistic look at each individual through the lens of ayurvedic principles dincharya, the gunas, and the doshas. During sessions I draw heavily from yoga’s philosophical models the Koshas, five states of mind, and the kleshas, as described in the Upanishads and the Sutras. Custom aftercare including documentation (audio, photo, video, and notes), designed using both Ayurveda and yoga philosophy, is given after each group or private session. For complex symptoms, I often request permission to speak with my client’s health care providers, or mental health professionals. My goal is to work seamlessly with the client’s care team. To stay within my scope of practice, I rely on my robust list of providers in various specialties, and make referrals often.
what are the goals of yoga therapy?
eliminate, manage or reduce symptoms that cause suffering
improve function
help to prevent the occurrence or recurrence of underlying causes of illness
move toward improved health and well being
help to change your relationship to and identification with your condition
WhY Take A Private Lesson?
One teacher, one student is the traditional method of learning yoga. Individualized instruction ensures you get the information you need in a safe, non-intimidating environment.
what is the difference between a yoga teacher and a yoga therapist?
Read this article by Gary Kraftsow. To read more about the neuroscience behind yoga therapy read this.
i've taken my 200-hr teacher training, what's next?
Yoga instructors need access to resources, referrals, and support at any stage in their career. I provide Teacher Training modules, and Continuing Education for Registered Yoga Teachers.
I don't live in Portland, can we still work together?
Yes! We can meet anywhere via video-conference or phone. Requirements: a webcam or computer with a built-in camera, a reliable, speedy connection; Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, or Google Hangout.
confidentiality agreement
Fawn is committed to maintaining respectful relationships with all students. She recognizes that you may engage her support for matters that are personal and considered confidential. Information shared with Fawn during your lessons is considered confidential. You may give written permission for Fawn to speak to your doctor, physical therapist, or other health care provider. As a yoga therapist, Fawn does not work under HIPPA, yet she is willing to sign one for your other healthcare providers. This gives them permission to speak to Fawn. If you are working with Fawn, she will not identify you as a private client when you are taking public yoga classes. Fawn will also maintain your confidentiality in her communication with other students and practitioners in the community.