Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY)

Information Page

Trauma Informed Yoga Brighton, Michigan

Thank you for your interest in Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY).

This page is designed to help you understand the approach, who it may support, and how to make a referral, if you are a mental health provider.

What is TCTSY

Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is a gentle, evidence-based form of trauma informed yoga designed to support individuals in reconnecting with their bodies through choice, awareness, and compassionate movement. Developed to complement trauma recovery and nervous system healing, TCTSY Trauma-Sensitive Yoga emphasizes personal agency rather than performance or achieving specific poses.

Unlike traditional yoga classes, the practice focus’s on invitation-based movement, present-moment awareness, and creating a predictable and supportive environment where participants can explore sensation and movement at their own pace.

Participants are always encouraged to make choices that feel right for their bodies.

Who This Practice May Support

TCTSY Trauma-Sensitive Yoga may be supportive for individuals experiencing:

  • Trauma and post-traumatic stress

  • Chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation

  • Anxiety or overwhelm

  • Burnout and compassion fatigue

  • Disconnection from the body

Many participants are:

  • Mental health professionals

  • Healthcare workers

  • Educators

  • Caregivers and advocates

What Makes TCTSY Different

An evidenced based practice

TCTSY sessions are:

  • Invitation-based (no commands or corrections)

  • Non-judgmental and non-evaluative

  • Predictable and consistent in structure

  • Focused on internal experience rather than external form

There is:

  • No physical adjustments

  • No requirement to share verbally

  • No expectation to perform or achieve

Session Format

Sessions may be offered:

  • Individually or in small groups

  • In-person or virtual

A typical session includes:

  • Brief orientation

  • Guided, choice-based movement

  • Time for rest and noticing

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is a research-based, evidence-supported trauma-aware yoga protocol developed to support individuals with complex trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

    • ‘Trauma Sensitive’ or ‘Trauma Informed Yoga’ is a broader term that may be part of any yoga class.

    TCTSY Trauma Sensitive Yoga differs from general trauma sensitive/trauma-informed yoga because it follows a specific protocol developed through clinical research and requires specialized facilitator training.

    • TCTSY Trauma Sensitive Yoga features a 300-hour certification and ongoing training is required by the Center for Trauma and Embodiment.

    • ‘Trauma Sensitive Yoga’ or ‘Trauma Informed Yoga’ training varies and ongoing trainings may or may not be required.

    • Questions to consider asking a yoga teacher or studio who is offering trauma sensitive/trauma informed yoga:

      • Do you hold a Yoga Therapy Certification or did you graduate from a International Association Yoga Therapy‑accredited program? Which one?

      • What specific training or courses do you have in nervous‑system regulation (hours, instructors, type of training)?

      • How do you work with clients who have trauma or dysregulation? What safety/consent practices do you use?

      • How do you coordinate with medical or mental‑health providers? When would you refer?

      • Can you share client outcomes or supervised case examples? Do you carry liability insurance for trauma based yoga?

    TCTSY Trauma Sensitive Yoga was developed by the Center for Trauma and Embodiment and is referenced by trauma researcher Bessel van der Kolk in the book The Body Keeps the Score.

    • You can verify the ongoing research behind TCTSY Trauma Sensitive Yoga and search for a TCTSY Facilitator on www.traumasensitiveyoga.com. Shawn has been a TCTSY Facilitator since 2023 and has over 20 years working with individuals with a history of trauma.

  • No. Trauma-Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is not psychotherapy and is not meant to replace therapy. TCTSY is an evidence-based, SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration) approved adjunctive treatment for trauma.

    It is often used as a complementary practice that can support the healing process alongside counseling, therapy, or other wellness practices.

    Many people attend TCTSY Trauma Sensitive Yoga while continuing to work with their therapist.

  • TCTSY may benefit anyone experiencing:

    • Stress or burnout

    • Trauma or PTSD symptoms

    • Anxiety or chronic overwhelm

    • Difficulty feeling present in the body

    • A desire for gentle movement and nervous system support

    You do not need a diagnosis or prior yoga experience to participate.

  • No. The focus is on movement, breath, and noticing body sensations in a supportive and choice-based environment.

    • All instruction is verbal—no hands-on adjustments

    • You have full choice in movement and rest

    • Accessible movements with rest, grounding, and a predictable structure

    • No experience or flexibility needed — yoga for everyone.

    • Feel more grounded and present in your body

    • Increase body awareness and self-regulation

    • Reduce stress and tension

    • Build a sense of empowerment and choice

  • Yes. TCTSY is designed to be accessible to beginners and experienced practitioners alike.

    Movements are slow and adaptable. You always have the option to rest, modify movements, or choose what feels supportive for your body.

  • Nothing is required for class. Mats, blankets, and blocks are all available to borrow. If you prefer your own, you are welcome to bring them.

    • You may want to bring a water bottle

    • You are welcome to wear any comfortable clothing that allows for movement

  • Nothing is required for class. You might choose to have any of the following available:

    • A yoga mat, towel, or blanket

    • A non-rolling chair, without armrests if possible

    • A water bottle may useful

    • You are welcome to wear any comfortable clothing that allows for movement

  • We are located in Brighton, Michigan in Livingston County. We offer Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY), both individual and group sessions. To find other locations you can search at www.traumasensitiveyoga.com.

    Our goal is to create a welcoming and supportive space for healing, stress reduction, and reconnection.

To refer a Individual:

  1. Share this page with your client

  2. Encourage them to reach out directly to explore fit

  3. With consent, collaboration with providers is welcome

Optional: Providers may contact us directly for general consultation or questions.

Referral Process

Our Approach

Our work is grounded in:

  • Trauma-informed care

  • Nervous system awareness

  • Choice, collaboration, and empowerment

We aim to create a space where individuals can explore connection to their bodies at their own pace, without pressure or expectation.

Contact & Collaboration

We welcome connection with referring providers.

  • Questions about fit

  • Case consultation (with written consent)

  • Collaborative care conversations

Learn more
Learn more

Good Fit for Referral

Individuals who may be a good fit:

  • Are curious about body-based healing

  • Can tolerate gentle internal awareness (with support)

  • Are seeking non-verbal or adjunctive approaches

When to Use Caution

TCTSY may not be appropriate as a standalone support for individuals who are:

  • In acute crisis

  • Experiencing active psychosis

  • Without any external support system

In these cases, additional stabilization and clinical care are recommended.

Note to Therapists-

TCTSY offers a gentle, body-based pathway for individuals to reconnect with themselves. For many, it becomes a meaningful complement to traditional therapeutic work.

We feel honored to have partnered with local agencies and therapists in supporting individuals on their healing journeys, and we genuinely look forward to connecting and working alongside you. Thank you for the work you do.

With care,

Shawn

Gentle Spirit Connection