Looking for the best online yoga therapy training certification? In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of online yoga therapy training certification and help you choose the right program for you. We’ll also compare online training versus in-person training, highlighting the pros and cons of each. Plus, we’ll discuss the key components of a comprehensive online yoga therapy training certification and share success stories from graduates.
With the growing popularity of online learning, you can now pursue an online yoga therapy certification from the comfort of your home. Online yoga therapy certification programs offer flexible schedules and access to world-renowned yoga teachers and experts.
If you are a yoga teacher or a healthcare professional, these certifications will help you understand the mind-body connection and how to use yoga therapy to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. So, if you are ready to take the next step in your yoga journey, keep reading to discover the five best online yoga therapy certifications available today.
List of Therapy Programs
How Do I Become A Certified Yoga Therapist?
Practice, Practice, Practice
As obvious as it sounds, make sure you have a genuine interest in yoga before deciding to train as a yoga therapist. Yoga therapy is a very unique form of yoga, different from the other traditional forms such as Hatha, Vinyasa, Iyengar, or Bikram.
Some investigation might help:
- What inspires your interest in yoga therapy specifically?
- How much time and money are you prepared to put into your education?
- Who is your idea client?
- What type of setting do you want to teach?
The answers to these questions will help you become ready for what is ahead on your adventure.
Participate in Local Yoga Community
In addition to committing to a daily yoga practice, you should look for ways to become active within the yoga community in your area. Attending seminars and retreats, meeting other yoga practitioners in your area, and consulting with your yoga teacher or mentor are all great ways to get your feet wet.
Getting involved with the local yoga community may aid you on your path, as meeting others can be a great way to see if it fits what you had thought.
Obtain Your Yoga Teaching Certification.
To become a yoga therapist, you do not need a certification, but it’s a good idea. A Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School (RYS®) or a similar program with at least 200 hours of instruction will help you get your feet in the door initially as it can be tough to find a job without any experience.
Start Teaching Yoga
A minimum of one year of teaching experience in yoga is often required for admission to many of the yoga therapy training programs. Referrals, networking, and applying for jobs at yoga studios are just a few ways that you can start getting some experience.
Selecting the Appropriate Yoga Therapy Course
For those who have already completed at least 200 hours of teacher training from a Yoga Alliance-approved institution, you already know what to look for. Some thing to look out for are: the program’s style, how well the teacher is known, timing, career prospects for graduates, and whether or not the school will enable you to work in a clinical environment are all important considerations.
Get Certified as a Yoga Therapist
Yoga therapy programs vary in duration, but most last at least two years and include at least 800 hours of instruction. You will learn more about yoga’s history, philosophy, and therapeutic applications during this period. In addition to classroom instruction, you will get practical experience via supervised practicums and clinical rotations.
Learn the Skills to Become a Yoga Therapist
To practice yoga therapy professionally, you must first get certified. The International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) is the organization to contact for this. At least 800 hours of training are required for certification, including 150 hours of supervised clinical practice. You will also be required to demonstrate your understanding of yoga therapy concepts via a comprehensive test.
Best Online Yoga Therapy Certifications
1. Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy Foundations Program
The Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy Foundations Program is a comprehensive certification program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to work one-on-one with people for various conditions within the yoga therapy model. The program teaches anatomy, philosophy, and theory and how to apply this information and tools in a therapeutic setting. The course is structured to be completed in about one year with an option to continue into their Advanced Yoga Therapy Program offering C-IAYT.
The unique blended online and retreat/residential format allows for schedule flexibility so that people with various life situations can participate. The program includes 50 online lectures, live group Q&A’s, a community forum, and three retreats. Upon completion, graduates can assess clients and teach them self-healing techniques while maintaining full integrity. The program is taught by Brandt Passalacqua, a Yoga Therapist with almost two decades of experience in the field.
Format Of The Course: The course is structured to be completed in approximately one year, but participants can move through the program slower, completing it when ready. The unique blended online and retreat/residential format allows for schedule flexibility so that people with various life situations can participate.
The main part of the program is delivered in 50 lectures online, which are available 24/7, enabling participants to take them at their convenience. Each class includes homework assignments to help participants integrate and fully understand the information. The community forum for all trainees is available for questions that arise at any time, and there are two weekly, live group Q&A sessions with the program founder and lead instructor, Brandt Passalacqua, that delve deeper into the material and provide mentorship.
Duration: Participants may begin and complete the Foundations Program at any time. To obtain certification, there are four requirements: completion of all 50 online lectures and coursework, attendance at three-weekend retreats or equivalent, completion of two papers outlining case studies, and an oral and written exam by the teacher.
Program Cost: The tuition for the Foundations Program is $2,995, plus three retreats. Payment plan options are available to provide financial flexibility for participants. The full tuition and payment plan details are available on their program website.
Medium and Instruction Materials: The program is delivered primarily online, with access to pre-recorded online content and live interactive sessions, of which there are several each week to choose from. The course curriculum includes anatomy, philosophy, theory, and how to apply this information and tools in a therapeutic setting. Participants will have a clear grasp of how human anatomy works and be able to apply it in a real-world setting. The course is designed for the application, and the teachings come from actual cases. The program is taught through a Koshic “lens” or framework. The Koshas are how yoga views the human experience.
Teachers And Instructors: The Breathing Deeply Yoga Therapy Program is taught by its founder, Brandt Passalacqua, a Yoga Therapist with almost two decades of experience in the field. Brandt has maintained a full-time yoga therapy practice where he has worked successfully with clients facing various conditions. His down-to-earth approach provides students with proven, real-world applications of ancient yoga therapy concepts.
In addition to Brandt, students work one-on-one with a Teaching Assistant throughout the course to ensure mastery of the coursework. Students are encouraged to open up, lean in, stretch their curiosity, engage in thoughtful conversations, and obtain answers consistently during live Q&A sessions with Brandt (three times weekly). Brandt is also consistently available for students outside the live sessions through the program’s community network, discussion forums, and live interactive retreats.
Student Review
This is the complete package. The online lectures are great, and you can go back as many times as you need. The on-line practices in meditation, pranayama, and chanting have really helped me deepen my practice. The retreats are a joy with great camaraderie (and delicious food).
Review by Carol Day Young from UK
Certification: Upon completing the program, participants receive certification as a Breathing, Deeply Yoga Therapist. The program’s goal is to train participants to be clear on how to work with any condition in a focused way that has full integrity. Participants will be able to assess any client and teach them techniques for self-healing.
2. Clinical Yoga Therapy By My Vinyasa Practice
Clinical Yoga Therapy Module 1, offered by My Vinyasa Practice, is an online yoga teacher training program combining 300 hours of yoga teacher training with 200 hours of clinical application and case studies. This program is designed for yoga practitioners who want to deepen their practice and enhance their teaching skills, focusing on clinical applications of yoga therapy. Upon completing this program, students receive their 300-hour yoga teacher training certification and Applied Yoga Certification, allowing them to teach at the 500-hour level and work alongside healthcare professionals.
Format Of The Course: The online training program provides flexible access to students to work at their own pace. All required texts are included in electronic format. Students receive access to pre-recorded video lectures, written content, recorded practices with Michelle, and a one-week pass to the online studio. Live weekend lectures (Saturdays and Sundays via Zoom) are also available for students who wish to attend. These lectures are recorded for those who cannot attend. In addition to these lectures, the program offers practice teaching opportunities and over 15 weekly office hours with lead trainers and the Peer Support Team. These office hours provide additional learning and an opportunity to ask questions about content.
Duration Of The Course: The duration of the Applied Yoga Training – Clinical Yoga Therapy Module 1 is not fixed. The program is online so students can complete the entire training at their own pace. Therefore, the duration of the program depends on how quickly the student wants to complete the course.
Program Cost: The program costs $2800, which can be paid within 12 or 24 months. However, interested students can request other information on the program’s cost through the website.
Medium and Instruction Materials: The program is entirely online, and all the required texts are provided electronically. Students receive access to pre-recorded video lectures, written content, recorded practices with Michelle, and a one-week pass to the online studio. The program also offers practice teaching opportunities, guided meditations and scripts, worksheets (i.e. Modifications), podcast content, journal prompts, and skills practice. Upon completing the program, students maintain access to the training materials for life.
Teachers And Instructors: Michelle Young is the lead instructor for the Applied Yoga Training – Clinical Yoga Therapy Module 1. She is a Yoga Therapist serving private clients and clinical care teams. Michelle has studied Ashtanga Yoga privately with her teacher and independently for a decade.
She completed her 500-hour advanced training in Alignment-Based Vinyasa Yoga with Shanti Kelley. Michelle continues to deepen her practice through advanced studies in Yoga Therapy, Ayurveda, Spiritual Coaching, Metaphysics, and Tantra Yoga. She grew professionally as a Yoga Therapist serving behavioural health, eating recovery, and cardiac rehab. Michelle considers Richard Miller, Nischala Joy Devi, Leslie Kaminoff, and Monique Lonner, her most influential teachers.
Student Review
“The program provided me with fundamentals of yoga philosophy and asana and the confidence to teach. If you’ve had this dream [becoming a yoga teacher] then I encourage you to enroll as well – I am glad I did. Namaste.”
Review by Deb Stevens
In addition to Michelle, the program offers support from lead trainers and the Peer Support Team. The lead trainers provide additional learning and an opportunity to ask questions about content during weekly office hours. The Peer Support Team provides direct feedback and support to the students throughout the program.
Student’s Review: Many students who have completed the 200 Hour yoga teacher training program have provided positive feedback about their experience. Deb Stevens, who completed the program, stated that it gave her a strong foundation in yoga philosophy and asana and the confidence to teach. She encouraged others who have the same dream to enrol in the program.
Another student, Cydney Smith, found that the program was a great combination of yoga philosophy and asana, which helped to improve her practice and bring yoga principles into her daily life. She also noted that it helped her incorporate these principles into her classes.
Overall, students who have completed the program have praised the curriculum’s thoroughness and the instructors’ expertise.
Clinical Yoga Therapy Module 1, offered by My Vinyasa Practice, is an online yoga teacher training program combining 300 hours of yoga teacher training with 200 hours of clinical application and case studies. This program provides students with flexible access to learn independently and offers support from lead trainers and the Peer Support Team.
3. Applied Yoga Mobility Certification Program
The Applied Yoga Mobility Certification program is an advanced training course designed for yoga teachers and movement professionals who want to deepen their understanding of the body and learn new tools to work with pain and dysfunction. This program blends traditional yoga asanas with functional movement, creating a practice that can assess and treat most musculoskeletal conditions.
The program consists of 9 modules, covering every joint in the body, from hips and knees to breathwork and conscious relaxation. With this comprehensive education, participants will have the necessary knowledge to develop a system of assessment and framework to base their teaching and private lessons. The course content aims to provide participants with a more profound understanding of the body and a new set of tools to work with pain and dysfunction.
Course Curriculum: The Applied Yoga Mobility Certification program consists of two major sections: Intro to Applied Yoga Online Series and Sacroiliac Joint, Glute Strength, and Hamstring Length. The first section includes an introduction to Applied Yoga and a bonus Applied Yoga Integration eBook. The second section covers specific body areas, including the hips, knees, shoulders, and neck, as well as breathing patterns.
The Hip Mobility module teaches participants how to work with the hip joint, including supine hip circles, passive and active supine hamstring stretch, a hip distraction from Supta Pada 1-3, abduction, fire hydrants, and goddess pose. This module also covers 90:90 internal and external rotation, half-moon pose, and abduction strength.
The Sacroiliac Joint, Glute Strength, and Hamstring Length module teaches participants how to work with the sacroiliac joint, glute strength, and hamstring length. This module covers triangle prep, warrior 2, side flank pose, bridge pose, locust pose, standing forward fold, one-legged forward bend, feet wide apart hamstring stretch, one-legged hamstring stretch on 3 planes, and seated wide-angle pose.
Format of the Program: The Applied Yoga Mobility Certification program is an online course accessed from any device. After enrolling, participants have lifetime access to the course material and can take it at their own pace. The course content consists of videos, quizzes, and a bonus Applied Yoga Integration eBook.
Continuing Education Hours: The Applied Yoga Mobility Certification program counts as 45 hours of CEUS continuing education and 10 hours for Yoga Alliance continuing education. This certification program is designed to help yoga teachers and movement professionals become the best in their field by providing the necessary knowledge and tools to work with pain and dysfunction.
Instructor: The Applied Yoga Mobility Certification program is led by Jory Serota, a pioneer in establishing the connections between yoga, physical therapy, personal training, and therapeutic movement. With over 20 years of experience in kinesiology and various movement disciplines, including being a competitive tennis player and collegiate ultimate frisbee player, Jory is a NeuroKinetic Therapy Instructor. He has trained thousands of yoga teachers and bodyworkers and is influential in shifting the movement and therapy paradigm. Jory combines a precise and direct approach to teaching with his kind and warm sense of humour.
Student Review
“Jory offers a depth of knowledge that can only come from direct experience and dedicated self-study. Without fail, every time I practice with him I walk away with new techniques to awaken my body and steady the mind. He naturally weaves together the integrity of all eight limbs of yoga and leads his classes with humor, focus and precision. Jory represents a powerful link in a chain of teachers going back centuries, and is himself, an embodiment of Yoga.”
Review by Kevin Courtney
Certification Process: To become certified, participants must complete each course section, including the quizzes. The quizzes cover the material learned in each section and serve as a way to assess participants’ understanding of the content. After completing the course and quizzes, participants will be fully certified in Applied Yoga Mobility.
The Applied Yoga Mobility Certification program is a unique and comprehensive advanced training program designed to help yoga teachers and movement professionals deepen their understanding of the body and learn new tools to manage pain and dysfunction.
4. Yoga Therapy Course By The Yoga Therapy Institute
The Yoga Therapy Institute offers a comprehensive and accredited online Yoga Therapy training program designed for individuals passionate about helping others improve their health and well-being through yoga. The program is open to everyone, regardless of location, and is tailored to meet the needs of students with various levels of yoga experience.
The program covers a range of biomedical modules, including the body systems from a biomedical perspective, psychology and trauma studies relevant to the work of a yoga therapist, practical yoga therapy approaches to disease and maintenance of health, case studies and clinical work, and the professional referral process. Students will learn all the knowledge, skills, and practical applications required to become effective and compassionate Yoga Therapists.
Format Of The Course: The Online Yoga Therapy training program is designed to be interactive and engaging, with live lectures conducted via Zoom and other accessible online platforms. The program includes live PowerPoint presentations, comprehensive student manuals, pre-recorded videos with Yoga Therapy practices relevant to each subject, Yoga Therapy research lectures, pre-recorded audios, student home study material, practical online group workshops, online tests, and examinations.
The program is designed to be flexible, with students able to complete the course at their own pace. The program also offers evening modules and accessibility for students with busy schedules or needing additional support.
Duration Of The Course: The Yoga Therapy Institute offers a range of courses, including a 625-hour and an IAYT-accredited 875-hour diploma and elective professional development workshops. The duration of each course varies depending on the program, with some courses taking as little as 100 hours to complete.
Medium and Instruction Materials: All lectures and materials are conducted online, with students able to access the program from anywhere in the world. The program uses various instructional materials, including live lectures, pre-recorded videos, audio, and comprehensive student manuals. Students will also have access to online tests and examinations and practical online group workshops to reinforce their learning.
Teachers And Instructors: The Yoga Therapy Institute has a dedicated and highly experienced teaching faculty led by Montserrat G. Mukherjee, one of Europe’s first C-IAYT Yoga Therapists. With over 20 years of hands-on experience, Montserrat has worked with clients worldwide suffering from a wide range of health conditions. The program also works with an exceptional team of expert collaborators and professionals to provide students with the best possible education and support.
Student Reviews: The program has received excellent feedback from students worldwide. Students have praised the program for its comprehensive and interactive lectures, additional supporting materials, and practical online group workshops. Many students have also commented on the supportive and collaborative environment of the program, where they can learn and connect with others from around the world. Here are a few examples of student reviews:
- “Thank you for this wonderful and inspiring week. I loved it in every sense.” E. Hoving, The Netherlands
- “Absolutely buzzing. This course was amazing. Just wish I could do all of them right now!” L. Jennings, Dubai
- “Thank you for this amazing energy, and it gives me more energy and excitement to learn more and connect with others who are evolving in the same area!” D. Wegman, The Netherlands
- “Lovely people, thank you all and especially Montserrat and Marleen. There are no words to describe this week and my feelings.” B. Dezillie, New Zealand
- “Thanks, everyone, for this very enriching experience, for all we learned and shared in this module! S. Teisseire-Klause, United States
Certification: The Yoga Therapy Institute offers an IAYT-accredited 625-hour diploma and an 875-hour diploma, as well as professional development workshops. Upon successfully completing the required coursework and assessments, students are awarded a diploma recognized by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT), the accrediting body for yoga therapy education.
Overall, the Yoga Therapy Institute’s online Yoga Therapy training program offers a comprehensive and flexible approach to learning yoga therapy from anywhere in the world. The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and practical applications required to be effective and compassionate yoga therapists.
The online format allows students to learn at their own pace and on their schedule while still receiving the support and guidance of experienced teachers and instructors. With its IAYT accreditation and positive student reviews, the Yoga Therapy Institute is a great choice for anyone looking to become a certified yoga therapist.
5. Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy
Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy is a holistic and integrative approach to yoga therapy that combines physical yoga with deep personal inquiry. It was founded by Michael Lee over 35 years ago and is an established pioneer in the field. The PRYT Method has been regarded internationally since 1986 and is grounded in the uniquely codified Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy Method.
The world-class yoga therapy certifications offered by Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy are for people serious about integrating yoga therapy into their current profession or becoming certified yoga therapists. The program is IAYT accredited and provides standardized training expected from a professional-level yoga therapy program, with the benefit of developing proficiency in the PRYT Method.
To become a PRYT Certified yoga therapist and qualify for C-IAYT, students must take all four semesters of the training program, which adds up to 900 hours. However, students can choose to commit to a six-month, one-year, or two-year program depending on their readiness and professional goals.
Foundations in Yoga Therapy & PRYT Method (Semester 1): This semester is the foundation of the yoga therapy certification program. If your goal is to become a yoga therapist, this is where your journey begins. If you wish to add yoga therapy skills to your current professional work, you can take this semester with no obligation to continue.
Upon completion of Semester 1, students earn PRYT Certified Level 1 status. The semester includes one 8-day in-person intensive, all webinars, practicum, and mentoring. Tuition for Semester 1 is $6000, and payment options are available.
Yoga Therapy Concentrated Training & Practicum (Semester 2): This semester is designed to provide concentrated training in yoga therapy and practicum to apply the learned skills. Students can earn PRYT Certified Level 2 status upon completing semesters 1 & 2, which takes one year.
In addition, the program also includes a 300-hour yoga teacher certificate to your 200-hour certificate for those who wish to register with Yoga Alliance. The semester includes one 8-day in-person intensive, all webinars, practicum, and mentoring. Tuition for Semester 2 is $6,000, and payment options are available.
Semester 3 & 4 Details: Semesters 3 & 4 program includes four courses: Life Mentoring, Group Facilitator Training, Basics of Ayurveda, and Yoga Therapy for Couples. The program requires previous certification as either a PRYT600 or MHP500 certificate holder. The tuition for the program is outlined on their website, and the program format and schedule are designed to provide flexibility and accommodate the student’s needs.
Yoga Therapy Essentials is an entry-level experiential program that Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy offers. It is designed to give participants a taste of what they will learn in the full IAYT Accredited Yoga Therapy Certification. This program teaches students how to skillfully guide a process that brings clients into a state of self-awareness and inner presence, into the well of wisdom inside themselves.
The program is packed full of valuable tools that can be used immediately. Students gain introductory knowledge of what yoga therapy is and how it can be used to facilitate growth and healing. This somatic method uses present-centred embodied awareness established through yoga postures, hands-on assistance, and therapeutic dialogue.
The program is suitable for anyone who wants to gain greater insight into the mind-body connection, including yoga therapists, yoga teachers, mental health professionals, physical therapists, physicians, nurses, occupational therapists, and massage therapists.
Course Content: The Yoga Therapy Essentials program includes 16 hours of immersive webinars, a free download of the book “Bridge from Body to Soul” by Michael Lee, a private individualized yoga therapy session outside of class time, and a daily inspiration practice for learning outside of class time.
Participants will learn how to use yoga and meditation for healing and transformation. They will be taught how to access the power of yoga to bring clients into a state of self-awareness and inner presence. The course content includes hands-on and verbal techniques to help clients process mental or physical ailments through their bodies. Students will also learn how to expand their client’s comfort zones by playing the edge.
Tuition and Prerequisites: The tuition for the Yoga Therapy Essentials program is $375. The program offers 16 credits for IAYT and Yoga Alliance continuing education, and it may also be available for MFTs, psychologists, social workers, (chemical dependency) counsellors, and nurses. Previous yoga experience is recommended as a prerequisite for this program.
Certification: Yoga Therapy Essentials does not lead to certification as a yoga therapist. However, it is a valuable entry-level program for anyone pursuing the full IAYT Accredited Yoga Therapy Certification.
Courses for Current Students: Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy offers a range of courses for current students, including a program for PRYT600 and MHP500 certificate holders who wish to add C-IAYT to their credentials. The courses are 100% online through April 2023 due to COVID, making them accessible to students worldwide. The program provides students with support, structure, inspiration, and Sangha to help them achieve their goals and expand their scope.
Expand Your Scope and Build Your Career: The 12-month program is designed to help students build their careers and execute their vision for the right livelihood. Students will learn about life mentoring, group facilitator training, the basics of Ayurveda, and yoga therapy for couples. By completing this program, students can add C-IAYT to their credentials, which can help them expand their scope and build their careers.
Cohort-Based Learning Community: The program offers cohort-based learning, which means students will be part of a learning community (Sangha) and have access to more content, guest teachers, and consistent support. This approach to learning creates a supportive environment that encourages students to connect with each other and their teachers. Additionally, the program offers career building, right livelihood business planning, and additional course credit support.
Faculty: The Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy faculty includes experienced professionals with expertise in various areas, including yoga therapy, Ayurveda, and group facilitation. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to their teaching, allowing students to learn from some of the best in the field.
Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy offers current students courses catering to various interests and career goals. The 12-month program for PRYT600 and MHP500 certificate holders is an excellent opportunity for students to expand their scope and build their careers. The individual courses available provide students with specialized knowledge and skills in specific areas, and the cohort-based learning community creates a supportive environment that encourages students to connect with each other and their teachers.
What Is The Difference Between a Yoga Instructor And a Yoga Therapist?
While yoga instructors and therapists use yoga to improve their client’s health and well-being, the two roles have some key differences.
A yoga instructor primarily focuses on teaching yoga postures and breathing techniques in a group class setting. They may also incorporate meditation and mindfulness practices, but their primary goal is to guide their students through a traditional yoga practice.
On the other hand, a yoga therapist is trained to use yoga practices to address specific health concerns or conditions in an individual or small group setting. They work with clients one-on-one to develop personalized yoga practices tailored to their unique needs and goals.
Another key difference is in their training and certification. Yoga instructors typically complete a 200-hour or 500-hour teacher training program through a Yoga Alliance Registered Yoga School (RYS®), focusing on the foundations of yoga philosophy, anatomy, and teaching methodology.
In contrast, yoga therapists undergo specialized training beyond their yoga teacher certification, typically completing an 800-hour or 1000-hour program in yoga therapy. This additional training provides them with a deeper understanding of the therapeutic benefits of yoga and how to adapt yoga practices to meet the specific needs of their clients.
Regarding their scope of practice, yoga instructors are generally limited to teaching yoga classes and providing guidance on healthy lifestyle habits. On the other hand, yoga therapists may work with clients with specific health concerns such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, or other medical conditions.
Can Yoga Therapy Be Done Online?
Yes, yoga therapy can be done online. With the increasing popularity of virtual learning, many yoga therapy programs now offer online courses and training sessions. Online yoga therapy can provide flexibility and convenience for the therapist and the client.
Through online sessions, clients can receive personalized therapy sessions from the comfort of their own homes, regardless of their location. Clients can also access a wider range of qualified therapists who may not be available locally.
Online yoga therapy can also benefit therapists by eliminating geographical barriers and allowing them to work with clients worldwide. Online sessions can also provide therapists with more flexible work hours and reduced overhead costs compared to traditional in-person therapy sessions.
How Does Online Yoga Therapy Training Work?
Online yoga therapy training is becoming increasingly popular due to the convenience and accessibility it offers to individuals who want to become certified yoga therapists. Here is a breakdown of how online yoga therapy training works:
Find a Reputable Online Yoga Therapy Program
The first step is to find a reputable online yoga therapy program that meets your needs. Researching and ensuring that the program is accredited and meets the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) standards is important.
Register and Pay for the Program
Once you have selected a program, you must register and pay for the program. Many online yoga therapy programs have flexible payment plans and schedules to make it easier for individuals to fit their training into their busy lives.
Attend Live Webinars and Recorded Lectures
Online yoga therapy programs typically offer live webinars and recorded lectures to help you learn the material. You can access these lectures and webinars at your convenience and work independently.
Complete Assignments and Exams
Like in-person yoga therapy training, online programs require completing assignments and exams to demonstrate your understanding of the material. These assignments and exams are typically submitted online and graded by the instructor.
Participate in Virtual Practicum and Mentorship Programs
Many programs offer virtual practicum and mentorship programs to give you hands-on experience. You will work with real clients under the guidance of a mentor and receive feedback on your sessions.
Graduation and Certification
After completing the program requirements, you will graduate and receive your certification as a yoga therapist. The IAYT recognizes this certification and can qualify you for registration with the Yoga Alliance as a Registered Yoga Therapist (RYT).
How To Choose An Online Yoga Therapy Certification Course?
Here are some questions to ask when selecting an online yoga therapy program:
Are the online yoga schools community-based?
One of the benefits of in-person yoga classes is the sense of community that develops between students and teachers. When choosing an online yoga therapy certification course, ensuring the school fosters a sense of community is important. Look for programs that offer virtual meetups, discussion boards, and other opportunities for students to connect and their teachers.
Is the online yoga school responsive?
Before signing up for a yoga therapy certification course, contact the school and ask questions. It may be a red flag if they are slow to respond or unhelpful. You want to make sure you choose a program responsive to your needs and concerns, both during the enrollment process and throughout your training.
Who are the teachers?
Look for programs that employ experienced and knowledgeable teachers with a background in yoga therapy. Check out their bios and credentials to ensure they have the expertise to guide you through your training.
How are lessons delivered?
Online yoga therapy certification courses may be delivered in various formats, including live video calls, pre-recorded videos, written materials, and more. Consider which formats work best for you and look for programs that offer a variety of delivery methods to suit different learning styles.
What are the credentials?
Ensure the program is accredited and recognized by the relevant professional organizations. Look for programs accredited by the Yoga Alliance, the International Association of Yoga Therapists, or other reputable organizations.
What do past students have to say?
Finally, read reviews and testimonials from past students to get a sense of their experience with the program. Look for feedback on the quality of the training, the support provided by the teachers, and the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for a career in yoga therapy.
Choosing the right online yoga therapy certification course requires some research and due diligence, but with the right questions and considerations, you can find a program that meets your needs and sets you on the path to a fulfilling career as a yoga therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much does a yoga therapist make?
According to recent data from PayScale, the average salary for a yoga therapist is around $60,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on location, years of experience, and the type of organization or setting where the therapist is employed. The 25th percentile for yoga therapist salaries is $46,000, while the 75th percentile is $84,000.
2. How long does it take to complete an online yoga therapy certification program?
The duration of an online yoga therapy certification program can vary depending on the specific program and the level of certification being pursued. Some programs may be completed in as little as six months, while others may take several years. Researching different programs to find one that fits your schedule and goals is important.
3. Is IAYT allowing online yoga therapy certification training?
The International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) has approved several online yoga therapy certification programs. However, it is important to ensure that the program you are considering meets IAYT’s standards for education and training.
4. Can you practice as a Yoga Therapist with an online yoga therapy certification?
Yes, you can practice as a yoga therapist with an online yoga therapy certification if the program meets the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT) standards. However, it is important to note that some states or countries may have specific licensing or certification requirements for healthcare practitioners, so it is important to research the regulations in your area.
5. What is the highest level of yoga therapy training?
The highest level of yoga therapy training is typically the Certified Yoga Therapist (C-IAYT) designation, awarded by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT). This certification requires the completion of a rigorous education and training program and a certain number of hours of hands-on experience working with clients.
6. How to become IAYT certified online?
To become IAYT certified online, you must complete a yoga therapy certification program approved by the International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT). After completing the program, you can apply for certification through IAYT and must meet their education, training, and experience standards. Researching different programs to find one that meets IAYT’s standards and fits your goals and schedule is important.
7. Is yoga therapy training worth it?
Yes, yoga therapy training is worth it for those interested in a career in yoga therapy or who wish to deepen their knowledge of the mind-body connection. Yoga therapy can be a powerful tool for healing and transformation, and proper training can provide the skills and knowledge necessary to guide clients in this process effectively.
8. Is Online Yoga Certification Worth It?
Yes, online yoga certification can be worth it. Online programs provide flexibility and convenience, allowing students to complete the coursework on schedule. Many reputable organizations offer online yoga certification programs that industry professionals recognize. The quality of the program, the institution’s credibility, and the instructor’s reputation are all important factors to consider when choosing an online program.
Final Discussion
Online yoga therapy certifications are a great option for those looking to become a certified yoga therapist from the comfort of their own home. The flexibility and accessibility of online programs make it easier for individuals to balance their professional and personal lives while pursuing their passion for helping others.
Before selecting a program, it is important to research and compares available options, considering factors such as accreditation, curriculum, faculty, and tuition. The five programs mentioned in this article are excellent choices for anyone pursuing a career in yoga therapy.
Whether you are a yoga teacher, healthcare professional, or someone who wants to deepen their knowledge and practice of yoga, obtaining an online yoga therapy certification can be a life-changing experience. With the right training and dedication, you can learn how to use the power of yoga to help others heal and transform their lives.
