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Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY)

Evidence-based, choice-based yoga for complex trauma, online and in training.

Trauma-sensitive yoga at ATEC, in short

Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is an evidence-based, adjunctive treatment for complex and developmental trauma. It uses simple yoga movements with a focus on choice, so you decide if and how you move. ATEC offers TCTSY practice online and runs TCTSY training.

  • Practise at home: the self-paced Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Intro Course is $49.95, with recorded practices over 6 sessions and 6-month access.
  • Train in TCTSY: the 20-Hour Foundational Training is hosted live on Zoom and costs $616 AUD inc. GST.
  • In Taiwan: in-person training in Taichung and Taipei, taught in Mandarin.
  • Private practice: 60-minute group or one-on-one sessions, online or in person. In-person one-on-one sessions are full at the moment, so register your interest.
  • Funding: self-managed NDIS participants can use TCTSY sessions as part of their plan, and ATEC is an NDIS-verified provider.
  • Who it may suit: people who have experienced complex trauma, and people in caring roles such as first responders, clinicians, teachers and support workers.

What is TCTSY?

Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is an evidence-based, adjunctive treatment for complex and developmental trauma. It uses simple hatha-style yoga movements, with a focus on choice.

  • Non-judgemental, safe space
  • Invitational language
  • You choose how and if you move
  • Self-paced online course and 20-hour training

Ways to practise and learn

  • Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Intro Course (self-paced, on demand)

    $49.95

    A self-paced introduction to TCTSY with recorded practices.

  • 20-Hour Foundational Training (English)

    Hosted live on Zoom. Learn the basics of TCTSY and how to apply it.

  • 20-Hour Foundational Training (Taiwan)

    In-person training in Taichung and Taipei, taught in Mandarin.

  • Private practice, group or one-on-one

    Online or in person, 60-minute sessions with time to debrief. ATEC is an NDIS-verified provider.

How TCTSY works

  1. Invitational language. Cues are offered as invitations. You decide for yourself if and how you take part.
  2. Choice making. You are in charge of your body, and choose the movements and shapes that are right for you.
  3. Shared authentic experience. The facilitator practises alongside you. You can stand, sit or lie down, and set up your space so you feel comfortable.

What you need to practise

  • An internet connection and Zoom
  • Enough space to reach your arms out and up
  • A chair with no wheels and, if you like, a yoga mat
  • Optional props: a pillow or bolster, and a towel or blanket

"No intervention that takes power away from the survivor can possibly foster her recovery, no matter how much it appears to be in her own best interests." Judith Herman

TCTSY FAQs

What is trauma-sensitive yoga?

Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) is an evidence-based, adjunctive treatment for complex and developmental trauma. It uses simple hatha-style yoga movements, with a focus on choice. Cues are offered as invitations, and you decide for yourself if and how you take part.

How much do TCTSY courses cost at ATEC?

The self-paced Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Intro Course is $49.95. The 20-Hour Foundational Training, hosted live on Zoom, is $616 AUD inc. GST. For private practice sessions, email enquiries@atec.vic.edu.au.

How is TCTSY different from regular yoga?

The focus is not on yoga shapes or stretches. Yoga forms are used as chances to make choices about moving or not moving your body. TCTSY may feel slower than a gym or studio class at first, and you can take your own options and pace at any time.

Who might TCTSY suit?

TCTSY has been validated for complex trauma, and it may suit anyone. It may help if you have experienced complex trauma, abuse, loss, physical injury or other adverse experiences, and it is popular with people in caring roles such as first responders, clinicians, teachers and support workers.

Are sessions online? Do I need my camera on?

Group sessions are on Zoom. You choose whether your camera is on or off. The facilitator is spotlighted during practice.

Is there talking involved?

There is no processing of trauma in sessions, so we ask that you have another support system in place.

Is this group therapy?

No. You will not be asked to share trauma history or process memories.

Can I leave during a practice?

Yes. You can leave at any time, or mute the sound and step away and come back later.

Can I practise in person in Melbourne?

We are not taking one-on-one in-person bookings at the moment, as we are at capacity. Register your interest and we will let you know.

Can I use my NDIS plan or VOCAT?

Possibly. Self-managed NDIS participants can use TCTSY sessions as part of their plan, and ATEC is an NDIS-verified provider. Some people have sessions approved through a Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal (VOCAT) application. Email enquiries@atec.vic.edu.au with your line item and budget.

I'm a therapist. Can I refer a client?

Yes, thank you. Email enquiries@atec.vic.edu.au and we will send you a referral form.

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