Over the years Stephanie’s experience of her yoga practice has shifted and expanded. It has gone from a more sports focused practice to a personal movement meditation practice and now to something that is woven into her work with youth. Using case examples and opportunities for experiential learning, she will review ways she integrates yoga into the treatment of individuals who are suffering with symptoms of psychosis, anxiety, depression and PTSD. Discussion will include research findings on the benefits, risks, and barriers to using yoga with this population. Participants are asked to bring a hot drink so they can participate in a mindful drinking practice.
Stephanie Francois BSc, MSW, RSW, works with youth in a First Episode Psychosis Program as a clinician, mindfulness facilitator, yoga instructor and personal trainer. She creates opportunities for youth to explore and experience their true nature through innovative individual / group programming. Stephanie loves to weave in nature-based practices, photography, and yoga into her clinical work.