Meet Joanna, the Heart Behind Root to Rise

My name is Joanna Tsotas, and for over a decade I have had the privilege of working closely with children, teens, and adults with a wide range of physical and cognitive disabilities. I have worked as a behavior technician in schools, clinics, and 1:1 interventions.

Over the years, I witnessed firsthand how powerful movement, nutrition, and daily routines can be, not just for physical health, but for confidence, emotional wellbeing, mental clarity, and self-trust. As I became a certified yoga and fitness coach, I felt called to bring these worlds together and create a more holistic, supportive approach to mindset.

My goal: To help individuals feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies, develop routines that feel manageable, and build a stronger connection between body and mind.

Connection does not happen all at once. It starts at the roots. With steady, consistent support, confidence and independence naturally rise.

I am a 200-hour certified yoga teacher, an adaptive fitness coach, and a certified behavior technician. I bring these practices together in an encouraging, non-clinical, and strength-based way, always honoring each person's pace, preferences, and individuality while celebrating wins and capabilities.

Why I do this work

I have seen how overwhelming healthy living can feel, especially for individuals who benefit from routine, predictability, and clear support. Too often, fitness and nutrition spaces move too fast, expect too much, or fail to adapt to different needs.

A space where:

  • Progress is gentle and achievable
  • Effort is celebrated
  • Routines are clear and supportive
  • Connection happens at a comfortable pace

My goal is not to push people to change who they are, but to help them build habits that make everyday life feel more manageable and empowering.

Joanna Tsotas

Each program starts with the person, not the plan. Every coaching relationship is adapted to individual abilities, preferences, sensory needs, and real-life goals. We focus on simple routines, repetition, and consistency, because that is where real confidence grows. There is no rushing. There is no perfection. There is steady progress.

A safe and respectful space

Trust matters in this work. Root to Rise Coaching is built on:

  • Clear boundaries and expectations
  • Consent and confidentiality
  • Respectful, affirming language
  • A judgment-free environment

Coaching is educational and lifestyle-based, and always remains within a non-clinical scope.

My approach

Supportive, not clinical
Structured, not rigid
Encouraging, not pressuring
Individualized, not one-size-fits-all

Working with teens, adults, and families

I work with:

  • Teens who benefit from gentle structure and encouragement
  • Young adults building independence and life skills
  • Adults seeking routine, accountability, and confidence
  • Parents and caregivers looking for safe, respectful support

I value collaboration and clear communication. When appropriate, parents and caregivers are welcomed as partners in the process, while always respecting the autonomy and dignity of the individual.

My areas of focus

My coaching centers on five core areas:

  • Movement:Accessible, confidence-building physical activity
  • Nourishment:Simple, realistic habits that respect sensory preferences
  • Routine:Daily structure that reduces stress and supports independence
  • Mindset:Emotional regulation, self-care, and stress management
  • Connection:Building community, friendship, and meaningful support networks

These pillars work together to support both physical and emotional wellbeing.

Let's take the first step together

If you are looking for a calm, supportive approach to building healthy routines, for yourself or for someone you care for, I would love to connect.

Let's talk