What does Certification Mean for a Craniosacral Therapist?

One of the major pioneers in the field of Craniosacral Therapy was  Dr. John Upledger.  He was a DO who decided to explore the Craniosacral System with much more depth and width, eventually teaching its gentle methods to practitioners all over the world.  For a directory of the many Upledger therapists, check out: www.upledger.com .  

When you decide that you want the best care from  Craniosacral Therapy, it is important that you take the time to check out credentials and also ask questions.  When you look at the Upledger site, look for a few things to give you information.

1.  Education and Credentials
2.  Certification
3.  Experience

When you look for a therapist in your area, you will find a list of names.  Look to the right and you can see how many classes the therapists have completed.  Basically,  the first class gives a general overview of the 10 step protocol.  At this point, most CST people have some of the fundamentals and can help get client some beneficial results.  The second class gets more detailed, and mouth work and sphenobasilar work are included in order to relieve some dysfunctional patterns that may not have been addressed with the basics.  There is a lot of physiology and anatomy taught in these classes and for a therapist to become proficient,  it is in her/his best interest to take the Certification.  In the Certification, the therapist passes a detailed written essay exam, a multiple choice test, and a Hands on Clinical Exam.  In order to pass, the therapist must know the material and have a thorough understanding of application to pass.  So it is in your best interest to find a therapist who is Certified.

The third and fourth classes prepare the therapist for emotional or spiritual dialogue that is initiated by the client.  We are not taught to be psychotherapists at the Upledger Institute, but instead to listen and mirror back, holding presence and compassion for our clients.  Other intuitive steps and techniques are also taught to enhance the cohesiveness of the Craniosacral system's functioning.  So if you are a client with a history of violence and/or trauma, this may be the best route for you.

When you are looking for a Craniosacral Therapist, ask them for how many years they have been working.  It takes many hours of therapy to gain a deeper connection to the work.  Each client's body is unique and each listening and melding takes that therapist to another level.

I hope that you find this page helpful.  Personally, I love Craniosacral Therapy,  and I'd like to see each client find the best therapist match possible.

Warmly,

Sharon Hartnett LMT
(740) 966-5153

www.columbus-craniosacral-structuralintegration.com