CST Today

Today, thanks to Still, Sutherland and Upledger, CST is practiced around the world. The most renowned school for CranioSacral Therapy is the Upledger institute in Palm Beach Gardens, FL.  The Upledger Institute is also involved in research, treatment, and outreach.  They have several unique patient programs including dolphin therapy and clinical intensives. The dolphin program takes place in Freeport, Grand Bahama Island, several times a year and offers patients with complex medical conditions an incredible journey to be treated by dolphins, along with a practitioner!  Clinical intensives include multiple sessions per day for several consecutive days, with at least two, sometimes up to five, therapists. 

CST practitioners are often massage therapists, doctors, physical and occupational therapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, dentists, speech pathologists, psychologists, counselors, nurses, etc.  To practice professionally in the US, a practitioner must carry a license in a healthcare field with their state's Department of Health.  Practitioners may practice under their original healthcare license but also have the the option to pursue certification with the Upledger Institute. There are currently two levels of certification offered by the Upledger Institute: Technique Certification, and Diplomate Certification. One must first achieve the techniques certification before applying for diplomate.  It is the dedicated therapist who pursues the technique certification and a unique and very talented individual who pursues the Diplomate, Each level certification may take years to complete and requires extensive knowledge in anatomy, osteopathy, neurology, psychology, and ethics.

Intensive Programs

The Intensive Programs of the Upledger Institute are unique, multi-disciplinary one week treatment programs designed to focus on particular issues such as autism, brain and spinal cord injuries, learning disabilities, etc. These programs, like all other Upledger Institute programs, use a mind-body-spirit approach to address the healthcare needs of the client.. While we have a core group of therapists assigned to this program, we additionally draw on the Institute’s diverse group of highly trained professionals to rotate through the programs and contribute their skills. These include physicians, physical therapists, massage therapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, doctors of oriental medicine, psychologists and counselors. Many of these professionals are cross trained in a variety of complementary therapies as well.  More...

The Graham Fund

The Graham Fund was established by Barbara Huntress Tresness to provide funds for children to receive Dolphin Assisted therapy through the Upledger  Institute International.