We recently connected with Lauren DeYoe and have shared our conversation below.
Lauren, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Over the past 12 years as an orthopedic physical therapist, my confidence and self-esteem have been shaped by both my professional experiences and personal journey. Initially, the process of working with diverse patients and successfully guiding them through their rehabilitation was a significant confidence booster. Seeing tangible improvements in my patients’ lives reaffirmed my skills and expertise, solidifying my belief in my abilities as a therapist.
However, about four years ago, I faced a period of burnout and stress that challenged my sense of self. I felt disconnected and unsure of who I was beyond my professional identity. It was then that I turned to Reiki as a means to address my mental health and well-being. Reiki became a transformative practice for me, allowing me to calm my mind, tune into my inner self, and rediscover what truly makes me happy.
Through Reiki, I learned the importance of self-care and mindfulness. This practice helped me create a balance between my professional and personal life, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of myself. By nurturing my mental and emotional health, I found a renewed sense of purpose and confidence that extended beyond my role as a physical therapist.
Today, my confidence and self-esteem are rooted in this holistic approach. I know that my well-being is just as important as the care I provide to my patients. This balance has not only made me a better therapist but also a more fulfilled and self-assured individual.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Combining Reiki with traditional physical therapy has been an incredibly special and exciting development in my practice. My personal experience with Reiki was transformative—it helped me navigate through burnout, stress, and a period of feeling lost. Recognizing its profound impact on my mental and emotional well-being, I began training in Reiki and am now a Reiki Master. This journey ignited a passion in me to share this powerful modality with my patients.
Integrating Reiki with physical therapy is special because it addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of healing. Traditional physical therapy focuses on the mechanical and structural components of the body, facilitating recovery through exercises, manual therapy, and other techniques. Adding Reiki brings an additional layer of healing by balancing the body’s energy, reducing stress, and promoting overall well-being. This holistic approach not only aids in physical recovery but also supports emotional and mental health, providing a comprehensive healing experience.
What makes this even more exciting is that I am currently the only physical therapist in Nashville, TN, offering this unique combination. It’s a pioneering approach in our community and it is incredibly rewarding to provide a service that truly nurtures the whole person.
I’m excited to announce that I will be launching a new online course this year called “Mindfulness for Chronic Pain.” This course is designed to provide individuals with effective techniques to manage and alleviate chronic pain through mindfulness practices.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three qualities and areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey were having a mentor, a passion for learning, and determination.
First, having a mentor was invaluable. My mentor provided guidance, support, and a wealth of experience that I could draw upon. They helped me navigate challenges and encouraged me to grow both professionally and personally. For those early in their journey, I recommend seeking out a mentor who inspires you and whose career path aligns with your goals. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and learn from their experiences.
Second, a passion for learning has been a cornerstone of my success. The fields of physical therapy and Reiki are constantly evolving, and staying curious and open to new knowledge has allowed me to stay at the forefront of my profession. For newcomers, embrace a mindset of lifelong learning. Attend workshops, read extensively, and stay updated with the latest research and techniques. This not only enhances your skills but also keeps you motivated and engaged.
Finally, determination has played a crucial role in my journey. The path wasn’t always easy, and there were times when I faced significant challenges. However, a steadfast determination to overcome obstacles and achieve my goals kept me moving forward. My advice for those starting out is to cultivate resilience and stay committed to your vision. Understand that setbacks are part of the process, but with determination, you can overcome them and continue to progress.

How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal patient is someone committed to their healing journey and open to integrating both traditional physical therapy and holistic practices like Reiki. They are typically dealing with chronic pain, stress, or a musculoskeletal condition and are looking for a comprehensive approach to their recovery.
Open-mindedness is crucial; they are willing to explore and embrace new modalities, understanding that healing can come from a combination of physical, emotional, and energetic treatments. Commitment is also important—they consistently participate in their physical therapy exercises and Reiki sessions. A proactive attitude helps, as they take an active role in their health and well-being, asking questions, seeking knowledge, and making lifestyle adjustments that support their recovery.
Patience is another key characteristic. Healing, especially with chronic conditions, takes time, and they understand that progress may be gradual, being patient with themselves throughout the process. Finally, they value a holistic perspective on health and are interested in treatments that address the mind, body, and spirit.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://reikipt.com
- Instagram: https://dr.lauren.deyoe
- Facebook: Reiki PT

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