Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy is an approach where practitioners use their hands to release built up tensions within the body, associated with the craniosacral system (the liquids and membranes that support the functionality of the brain and spinal cord).


Craniosacral Therapy originates from osteopathic traditions in the United States and was first documented and developed by William Sutherland in the early 20th century. It was originally called cranial osteopathy.

In 1970, Osteopath Dr. John Upledger built upon the theory when he directly observed cerebrospinal fluid pulses and disturbances and determined that disease could occur when pulse flow was restricted. He increased the development, understanding, research, and recognition of cranial osteopathy.


Craniosacral Therapy practitioners use tiny movements with their hands to assess and adjust restrictions in the fascial tissues. The goal is to alter these restrictions and alter the optimal flow (pulses) of the cerebrospinal fluid.

Practitioners lightly lay their hands at key points of vibration of the cerebrospinal fluid or directly on points that show movement from those pulses. Treatment is achieved by lightly applying pressure through specific holding patterns to directly manipulate the fascial systems.

These systems contain the central nervous system and the cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment also focuses on altering the flow of the fluid pulses so that pulses gently stretch the fluid's fascial enclosures.

The release of fascial constriction allows the fluid pulses to freely travel through the chambers surrounding the brain and spinal cord where the cerebrospinal fluid circulates.

Explore This Practice For

Practitioners remove blockages of cerebrospinal fluid that can have numerous energetic and physiological effects, particularly to the ideal functioning of the nervous system. Craniosacral Therapy practitioners believe that they can correct this flow to address these conditions.


A level of training that includes every competency component needed to safely and appropriately apply the treatment.


An additional treatment that first requires the practitioners to be trained in an appropriate related discipline.