About Integrated Movement (Yoga) Therapy

This therapeutic approach combines yoga and mindful movement practices with psychotherapy to support emotional healing and body awareness.

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Integrated movement therapy, often incorporating yoga practices, recognizes the deep connection between physical sensation and emotional experience. This approach may help individuals who carry stress, tension, or unresolved emotions in their bodies. By combining traditional talk therapy with breathwork, gentle movement, and mindfulness practices, therapists support clients in developing greater body awareness and emotional regulation skills.

While our network of movement-informed therapists in Canada is still growing, First Session is committed to connecting you with practitioners who understand this embodied approach to healing. If integrated movement therapy resonates with you, we encourage you to explore our directory or consider related approaches such as somatic therapy or mindfulness-based therapies that may also support your wellness journey.

Karla Rivera

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
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Offers In-Person (Waterloo, ON)
Virtual Sessions in all provinces and territories.
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Karla Rivera

Karla Rivera

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
She/Her/Hers
$145/session
Nervous system regulation, Parenting, Spirituality, Self-esteem, Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Boundaries and boundary setting, Building Self-Care Routines, Intergenerational trauma, Mind-body connection, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Wellness Counselling, Mindfulness
Nervous system regulation, Parenting, Spirituality, Self-esteem, Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Boundaries and boundary setting, Building Self-Care Routines, Intergenerational trauma, Mind-body connection, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Wellness Counselling, Mindfulness
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Molly McBride

Registered Clinical Counsellor
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Offers In-Person (Chilliwack, BC)
Virtual Sessions in MB, NU, YT, NT, BC, SK, and NL.
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Molly McBride

Molly McBride

Registered Clinical Counsellor
$150/session
Nervous system regulation, Addiction, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Befriending the Nervous System, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Boundaries and boundary setting, Childhood trauma, Depression coping skills, Emotional regulation, Existential questions, Familial and social relationships, Life transitions, Meaning and purpose, Negative thinking and ruminating, OCD, PTSD, Self Destructive Behaviour, Spirituality, Trauma processing, Workplace stress
Nervous system regulation, Addiction, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Befriending the Nervous System, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Boundaries and boundary setting, Childhood trauma, Depression coping skills, Emotional regulation, Existential questions, Familial and social relationships, Life transitions, Meaning and purpose, Negative thinking and ruminating, OCD, PTSD, Self Destructive Behaviour, Spirituality, Trauma processing, Workplace stress
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What is integrated movement (yoga) therapy?

Integrated movement therapy combines elements of yoga and mindful movement with psychotherapy. Rather than treating mind and body separately, this approach recognizes that emotional experiences often manifest physically. Therapists trained in this modality may use breathwork, gentle postures, and body awareness exercises alongside conversation to support healing and self-regulation.

Who might benefit from movement-based therapy?

Movement-based therapy may be helpful for individuals experiencing anxiety, stress, trauma responses, or difficulty connecting with their emotions. It often appeals to those who find traditional talk therapy limiting or who notice that tension, pain, or discomfort in their body relates to their emotional state. This approach can also support anyone seeking greater mind-body integration.

Do I need yoga experience to try this therapy?

No prior yoga or movement experience is necessary. Integrated movement therapy is adapted to each individual's body and comfort level. The focus is on internal awareness and emotional processing rather than achieving specific postures or physical goals. Your therapist will guide you at a pace that feels safe and appropriate for you.

How is this different from taking a yoga class?

While yoga classes focus primarily on physical practice, integrated movement therapy uses movement as a therapeutic tool within a clinical relationship. Sessions include psychological support, emotional processing, and personalized guidance from a trained mental health professional. The movement component serves the broader goal of emotional healing rather than physical fitness.

What happens in an integrated movement therapy session?

Sessions typically blend conversation with experiential practices. You might begin by discussing current concerns, then engage in breathwork, gentle movement, or body awareness exercises. Your therapist may guide you to notice physical sensations connected to emotions. The balance between talking and movement varies based on your needs and preferences each session.

What if integrated movement therapists aren't available in my area?

Our network of movement-informed therapists is growing across Canada. If you don't find a match right away, consider exploring related approaches such as somatic experiencing, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, or therapists who incorporate body-based techniques into their practice. Many First Session therapists offer virtual sessions, expanding your options beyond your immediate location.