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Scope of Practice

I, Jessica Dickson Buchalter AKA Jessa, as a yoga therapist, establish my scope of practice to provide safe, effective, and ethical yoga therapy services to my clients. This scope of practice statement outlines the principles and guidelines that govern my work:

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  1. Education and Qualifications:

    • I am RYT 500, PRYT, YACEP through Yoga Alliance and I am a C-IAYT Yoga Therapist-in-Training, completing extensive training in Yoga Therapy.

    • I continuously engage in professional development to deepen my knowledge and skills in yoga therapy techniques, philosophy, and research, including further training, workshops, and supervision.

    • I adhere to the professional code of ethics and ethical guidelines established by International Association of Yoga Therapists and by Jessa Buchalter Yoga LLC.

  2. Client Population:

    • I offer yoga therapy services to individuals and groups, working primarily with women and mothers as they navigate the challenges of postpartum on the physical, emotional and spiritual levels of being.

    • I am committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for clients of all backgrounds and abilities.

  3. Therapeutic Approach:

    • I integrate the principles and practices of yoga, including asana (postures), pranayama (breath-work), relaxation, meditation, mudra (energetic gestures and seals), bandha (energy locks), mantra (sacred sounds), mindfulness, bhavana (imagery), sankalpa (affirmation/ intention), yogic lifestyle, and dietary advice according to the yoga therapy framework, to support the holistic well-being of my clients.

    • I adapt and modify yoga practices to suit the individual needs, abilities, and limitations of each client, ensuring their comfort and safety.

    • I incorporate Jin Shin Jyutsu, an ancient Japanese healing art that utilizes gentle touch and the harmonizing of energy flows within the body, to promote holistic well-being.

    • I use the practice of Yoga Nidra Svadhyaya with somatic/nervous system reprocessing techniques to safely guide an inner inquiry of thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and patterns that may be influencing your life. This process of self-study helps to cultivate self-awareness, insight, and a deeper understanding of oneself.

  4. Assessment and Individualized Care:

    • I will conduct thorough assessments using qualitative and/or quantitative yoga therapy assessment tools to understand clients' physical, mental, and emotional health, considering their unique needs and goals.

    • I will develop a therapeutic plan and/or provide advice within the yoga therapy framework in accordance with the individual client’s needs, goals, learning style, life circumstances, and access to resources such as time and equipment.

    • I will use the assessment process to identify any risk factors or contraindications to ensure the safety and appropriateness of the yoga therapy interventions

    • I will respond to physical and emotional cues during sessions to ensure client well-being.

  5. Areas of Focus:

    • I specialize in [list specific areas of expertise or conditions], utilizing yoga therapy techniques to address physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being.

    • I maintain professional boundaries around touch, sexuality, and any other sensitive aspects, ensuring a safe and respectful therapeutic environment.

  6. Therapeutic Relationship and Communication:

    • Establishing and maintaining a professional and therapeutic relationship based on trust, respect, and confidentiality.

    • Engaging in active listening and effective communication to understand clients' needs and concerns.

    • Providing clear instructions and guidance during sessions to ensure client understanding and engagement in their healing journey.

  7. Collaboration and Referrals:

    • I collaborate with other healthcare professionals, when necessary, to provide comprehensive care for my clients.

    • I make referrals to specialists or healthcare providers outside of my scope of practice when additional support is required.

    • Maintain open and professional communication with other healthcare providers involved in the client's care.

  8. Professional Conduct:

    • I conduct myself with professionalism, integrity, and compassion in all interactions with clients, colleagues, and the community.

    • I engage in ongoing self-reflection, supervision, and professional development to enhance my competence and ensure the highest quality of care for my clients.

 

This scope of practice statement guides my work as a yoga therapist, ensuring that I adhere to ethical principles and provide effective and individualized yoga therapy services. I am dedicated to empowering my clients' well-being, honoring their unique journeys, and upholding the integrity of the yoga therapy profession.

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