Frequently Asked Questions

What is therapeutic yoga?

Yoga therapy is an emerging profession with characteristics or benchmarks in various stages of actual development. Yoga therapy is about change and replacing bad habits with good habits. Yoga therapists are NOT physicians or primary care providers; the role of a yoga therapist is to partner with medical providers and utilize the practices of yoga, proper breathing, meditation, and prayer to reduce human suffering. The yoga therapist's role is not to handle acute medical problems or make medical diagnosis. Upon collaboration with healthcare providers, yoga therapists are trained to focus on rehabilitation, chronic problems, and prevention.

Yoga therapy is not about a particular position of the body. Yoga therapy is an understanding of why and what we are trying to accomplish by putting the body in that position. A therapeutic practice adds the process of breath, diet, ritual, visualization, meditation, positive self-talk, and prayer (faith).

Will I learn how to teach group yoga classes?

Yes, the difference is you'll be a better instructor! DSOYT encourages students to discover their own personal-style. Training includes an introduction to various styles and traditions - vinyasa, hatha, restorative, adaptive, vini-, anusara- and iyengar-based methods. Training includes learning postures, modifications, adjustments and counterposes, etc., to prepare the student for teaching group classes. However, DSOYT offers more in-depth study of anatomy, physiology, common injuries, chronic health conditions and behaviors. DSOYT training prepares the student to become a highly-qualified yoga specialist in group class settings with special populations and in personalized one-on-one arrangements.

In addition, participants who successfully complete the program will be well equipped to work with various medical specialists, chiropractors, osteopaths and physical therapists.

How does someone go about registering for training at DSOYT?

Due to the nature of training, class size is limited. DSOYT requires applicants to complete the application, references, and various documents, as necessary. DSOYT works on a "first application, first process" basis.

What do applicants need to qualify for the 200-hour therapeutic yoga instructor training?

Students must complete the application, as well as submit references and other various documents. We recommend applicants have some familiarity with the basics of yoga, whether a personal practice or in a fitness setting.

What do applicants need to qualify for the 300-hour therapeutic upgrade?

Students must have completed a minimum of 200 hours of yoga teacher training/certification or provide documentation supporting 200 hours+ of study under reputable, certified or registered yoga instructors. Therapeutic yoga is more in-depth; students may find themselves overwhelmed without adequate background knowledge, training, and experience. Applicants with a considerable medical or therapy-related background are eligible on a case-by-case basis. A mastering of basic human anatomy and kinesiology, as well as a strong asana practice is recommended.

How often is training?

Both programs meet once monthly. The hours are Fridays, 6pm - 10pm; Saturdays, 9am - 6pm; and Sundays, 9am - 6:30pm. These hours include scheduled breaks, lunch, and yoga class attendance.

Our 200-hour program students meet once a month for seven months. Our 300-hour program students meet once a month for 13 months.

How much does it cost?

Both training programs are very cost competitive with other programs. Trainings also include unlimited yoga at Divine Center of Yoga. Guest speakers and workshops are offered at an additional expense. Click here to view tuition fees.

What makes the DSOYT program different?

The DSOYT is an approved and regulated yoga training program. Although the process was difficult, we find it in our student's best interest, allowing them to receive the best training possible for their investment. We invite potential students to compare us to other training programs.

Things to ask:

• Is the program recognized by Yoga Alliance?

• Is the program operating legally in the State of Texas?

• How long has the training program been in existence? How many graduates?

• Who are the faculty members and what are their credentials?

• Ask for a course catalog and review their fees, tuition, refund and cancellation policies. Is there a refund and cancellation policy in writing?

• Does the program promise "certification" upon completion? ("Certification" is an illegal term in the State of Texas.)

• Does the program teach in "modules" whose hours may be accumulated and submitted to Yoga Alliance? (This is also illegal and NOT recognized by Yoga Alliance.)

Do all yoga training programs have to be approved and regulated in Texas?

Yes, Texas state law requires ALL career schools and colleges to be regulated. Operating without TWC approval is illegal and puts enrollees at risk of losing their time, money, and efforts without recourse.