My Philosophy
At OYA Wellness, I believe life’s most transformative moments deserve to be honored with care, intention, and holistic support. These transitions—whether they involve unions, parenthood, or grief—shape our stories and offer opportunities for growth.
Life’s transitions can feel overwhelming, but I believe they’re also opportunities for profound growth. Whether you’re preparing for marriage, healing after a loss, or creating a family, these moments are chances to reconnect with yourself and your purpose.
I started OYA Wellness to create a space where women and couples can do just that—own their stories. “OYA” stands for Own Your Autobiography, and my mission is to help you transform from a passive observer of your life into an active, empowered participant. My approach is rooted in the belief that true well-being stems from the interconnectedness of mind, body, and the natural world. Through somatic practices, eco-psychology, and personalized care, I helpp empower my clients to move from passive observers to active authors of their lives.
About Me
Hi, I’m Shelby, the founder of OYA Wellness. For the past decade, I've had the privilege of supporting clients through life transitions.
My professional journey began in 2014, working as a physical therapist’s assistant, where I specialized in Pilates-based rehabilitation techniques. I quickly realized the transformative power of mind-body connection, and this insight inspired me to pursue a deeper understanding of holistic healing.
In 2020, I earned my M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Columbia University. This academic foundation gave me the tools to address life’s transitions in a holistic way, integrating somatic psychology, mind-body medicine, and eco psychology.
But my personal experiences have been just as formative. Navigating infertility due to PCOS and now embracing the joys and challenges of motherhood have given me a unique lens through which I support others. Losing my best friend at 28 taught me the importance of honoring grief and finding meaning in life’s most painful moments.
Today, OYA Wellness combines my professional and personal insights. These elements all come together to form OYA Wellness, where the art of narrative identity combines with other holistic practices, creating a space where clients can heal, grow, and own their life stories.
Education & Certifications
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M.A. Clinical Psychology & Education, Mind-Body Medicine; Columbia University, 2020
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B.A. Public Health & Public Relations; University of Southern California, 2014
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Comprehensive Mat Pilates Certification; Shepphard Method Alliance, 2014
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Complete Apparatus Pilates Certification; Synergy+ Physical Therapy, 2016
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Pre- and Post-Natal Pilates Certification (CPD certified), 2023
Specialties
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Pre and Postnatal Journeys
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Infertility & PCOS
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Women & Couples
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Weddings & Unions
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Loss of a Loved One
My Services
The OYA Method
I believe that true well-being arises from a holistic understanding of the mind, body, and environment. Drawing from a rich tapestry of experiences and education to offer personalized, compassionate care, I empower my clients to own their life stories and embark on a transformative path to healing, growth, and regeneration. My approach encompasses the following practices and therapies to support individuals on their path to well-being:
Mind-Body Practices and Somatic Therapies Through various mind-body practices and somatic therapies, I help individuals release tension, trauma, and emotional blocks, fostering emotional resilience and inner harmony.
Eco-Psychology and Nature-Based Healing: Nature has a profound impact on our well-being. Drawing from eco-psychology principles, I encourage the integration of nature-based healing practices, such as biomimicry and eco-therapy, to foster regeneration and a deeper connection with the natural world.
Narrative Identity Work: By integrating narrative identity work into the healing process, my clients cultivate a stronger sense of purpose, a clearer vision for the future, and a heightened capacity to navigate life's challenges with grace and self-assurance.
Navigating Grief & Loss
Finding meaning & healing after the loss of a loved one
Losing a loved one is deeply personal, and healing often feels elusive. My approach supports you to move forward with grace and resilience while finding a renewed sense of connection and meaning in your life.
Key areas:
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Compassionate support through life’s most difficult transitions
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Honoring your loss with tools for growth and resilience
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Transforming grief into a pathway for connection and renewal
Nurturing Parenthood Journeys
Support through infertility, pregnancy, and postpartum transitions
I offer tailored support for conception, infertility, and postpartum recovery. This includes the option to add pre/post-natal Pilates to restore the connection between the mind and body.
Key Areas:
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Empowering you through the challenges of conception and fertility
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Personalized care for pre- and post-natal physical and emotional well-being
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Cultivating strength, healing, and connection on your path to parenthood
Building Foundations for Partnership
Counseling and guidance for life’s most significant union
With nearly a decade of experience in wedding planning and counseling, I guide couples through the emotional and practical aspects of preparing for a lifetime of partnership.
Key Areas:
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Preparing emotionally and relationally for marriage or partnership
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Tools for communication, connection, and shared vision
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Celebrating your unique love story with intention
Movement Only Offerings ~
Pilates for Fitness:
Pilates for fitness is best suited for those looking to create a foundation for lasting well-being and improved quality of life who are not currently impacted by physical limitations due to an injury or condition.
*In person or virtual
Pre- and Post-Natal Pilates:
These specialized sessions provide support during pregnancy and aid in postpartum recovery, enhancing physical strength and emotional well-being.
*In person or virtual
Rehabilitative Pilates for the Mature:
As a comprehensive certified Pilates instructor who worked at as a Physical Therapist's Assistant, I have honed my ability to support the mature population through various stages of aging.
*Available for those 65+
Say Hello.
Thank you for your interest in OYA Wellness. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a free 20-minute introductory session, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Contact Information
Call or Text: 541-550-3151