SZN. 3 Ep. 3/ Incorporating Yoga Into Therapy

Lauren is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and graduated from UIC’s Jane Addams School of Social Work with a concentration in mental health. She’s passionate about working with adults and adolescents wanting to explore anxiety, gender identity, body image and self-esteem, racial and ethnic identity, and multicultural experiences. As a bicultural Latinx therapist, she’s attuned to the unique challenges and strengths that come with navigating the intersections of multiple identities. Understanding the impact of systems of oppression on well-being, her work centers around unlearning shame and promoting radical healing.

Mindfulness based techniques are also integral to her approach. She believes strengthening body awareness is an essential step towards a deeper self connection, managing stress, and cultivating inner peace. In line with this belief, she completed yoga teacher training at Room to Breathe Psychotherapy and Yoga, further enriching her ability to integrate somatic practices into therapy. 

Her clinical experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children both in non-profit agencies and school settings. She’s provided support to survivors of intimate partner violence and sexual assault and approached this work with empathy and sensitivity to address the unique needs of survivors.

---

Incorporating Yoga Into Therapy

By: Lauren Gestes, LCSW, CYT

In my work as a therapist, I’ve been honored to work with clients seeking support in

various areas of their life, which has allowed me to learn the benefits of approaching

mental wellness from multiple angles. In 2023, I participated in a psychologically

sensitive and trauma-informed yoga teacher training through Room to Breathe

Psychotherapy and Yoga in Chicago—this experience deepened my appreciation for

somatic healing and the harmonious integration of yoga and therapy. Below are some of

the benefits I’ve observed of incorporating yoga and mindfulness techniques in therapy

sessions.

Enhancing Mind-Body Connection

At the core of yoga is the principle of uniting the mind, body, and spirit. Western talk

therapy typically focuses on cognitive and emotional aspects, while yoga introduces

physical awareness and mindfulness. This combination helps clients develop a deeper

understanding of their bodies and emotions, encouraging a stronger mind-body

connection.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Through controlled breathing exercises (pranayama), meditation, and physical postures

(asanas), yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps reduce

stress levels. When integrated into therapy sessions, these techniques can provide

clients with tools to manage anxiety and stress more effectively, complementing talk

therapy interventions. These practices can be especially helpful in supporting clients in

regulating their nervous system at the beginning or end of therapy sessions.

Encouraging Mindfulness and Presence

One of yoga’s fundamental teachings is mindfulness: the practice of being fully present

in the moment. Practicing mindfulness through yoga and other somatic exercises can

help clients increase awareness of their thoughts and emotions from a nonjudgmental

perspective.

Providing a Safe Space for Autonomy

Trauma-informed yoga offers the opportunity for people to tune into their mental,

emotional, and physical needs and make choices for their body that feel safe and

comfortable in a given moment. Practicing bodily autonomy in a safe space can

encourage self-trust and empower clients to practice this in other areas of their life.

szn. 3

Ep. 3/

Incorporating Yoga Into Therapy