Working with the Whole Person
IWT incorporates a layered and linked view of the whole person, including: physical structure, physiological (breath, digestion and the gut, circulation, hormones), Intellect (cognition, self-expression, sensory processing), preferences and values, subjective emotions, as well as a person’s faith or belief system, if desired. We offer practices such as: physical postures, bilateral integration, reflex integration, breathing practices (that affect blood pressure, heart rate, pain, anxiety and self-regulation), meditation: guided self-inquiry; vocalizations and sound; coaching on healthy lifestyle — all according to the person’s preferences.
Honoring Individual Nature
At IWT, we respect and appreciate the unique attributes of each person. We know that challenges and diagnoses manifest differently based on the individual’s particular blend of physical, emotional, and environmental factors — as well their own strengths, preferences and purpose in life. Treatment and intervention cannot be folded into a prescribed pathway or prescription. We support each body’s inherent wisdom for healing.
Nurturing Social Connection
It is all about relationship! At IWT we affirm that the effectiveness of therapeutic and individual efforts are noted when relationships begin improving. We establish a nurturing, supportive and accepting environment in all of our sessions. Humans are social beings and emotional connectedness is at the basis of much of our physical and emotional well-being. We recognize that a sense of belonging supports esteem and self-actualization. At IWT, we use techniques such as: individually-arranged social skills sessions, assertiveness training, dealing with feelings in the “choice moment”, as well as coaching kids on “other awareness”.
Intensive Treatment with Bodywork
“Gentle Touch Release”, is a specialized and carefully adapted version of body work for those whom traditional body work may be contraindicated. This facilitates working holistically, integratively and provides the support for the person to cultivate their own awareness and processing through methodical and gentle facilitation. Our intensive one-on-one sessions, allows for listening deeply, collaborative planning, and consulting with family or other providers. We customize each therapy session, while incorporating our range of therapies, and bringing it back to function to make a real difference in daily life. We offer practices such as: physical postures, bilateral integration, reflex integration, breathing practices (that affect blood pressure, heart rate, pain, anxiety and self-regulation), meditation: guided self-inquiry; vocalizations and sound; coaching on healthy lifestyle — all according to a person’s preferences and desires.
Taking the Therapy out of the Clinic
At IWT, we meet the person where the need or desire is. Although foundational concepts and strengthening may need to begin in the home or clinic, the true results and real therapeutic effects are developed in the natural settings. We have worked with very effectively: at the beach, in the park, at favorite restaurants or the library, while shopping or at the farmer’s market, in the classroom, at work setting, in music or art classes -– where ever the individual needs assistance in accessing their life goals and roles.
Returning to the Basics
Our IWT therapeutic principles return to the basics of meaningful and purposeful activities that help the person fully engage in the treatment. We use everyday activities, purposeful skills, art, music, dance and natural environments as therapeutic intervention to enhance: strength, endurance, balance, dexterity, sensory processing, neurological integration, social-emotional skills, cognition and executive functioning.
Cultivating Healthy Habits
At IWT, we are intimately familiar with the struggle in developing healthy habits. Yes, we all want to enhance our lives through wellness practices, but getting started and persisting is often difficult. We can assist in breaking down goals in to bite-sized pieces, how to progress, and how to ultimately support a life well-lived. We use concepts such as: rhythmicity, existing daily habits, visualization, and motivation to help the client achieve their personal goals.
Retraining the Brain
At IWT, we stand on current research that demonstrates how to use the mind to change the brain -– and body. The brain is actually “soft-wired” and can be changed by experience and the achievement of goals, dreams and life purpose. The brain can be “re-wired” to improve: mood, memory, relationships, and habits. We help unravel self-imposed limitations through research-based techniques such as: visualization, mindfulness, meditation, re-framing, facilitating focus and persistence, as well as specific activities to calm the nervous system,
Supporting as the Guide on the Side
The IWT philosophy acknowledges the inherent wisdom within the body and mind for enhancing healing and wellness. We train and educate on the foundations of identifying: priorities and values, mindfulness, sensory awareness and processing, awareness of patterns of thinking, using your brain to change your mind and body, movement and postural awareness, as well as gut responses and interoception (or the physiological sense). We view ourselves as “the guide on the side” to help truly empower the person in creating their own life well lived.