CranioSacral Therapy (CST)

CranioSacral Therapy (CST) Career Guide

CranioSacral Therapy, uses gentle, light touch techniques to address imbalances in a patient’s nervous system and the physiological functions that they control. This technique focuses largely on the fluids and membranes of the spinal cord, brain, and the nervous system in general. Various forms of trauma including stress, tension, and injury can greatly restrict the movement of these tissues and fluids. CranioSacral Therapists evaluate the conditions of these systems and bring them back to equilibrium to stimulate the natural healing process.

History:

CranioSacral Therapy, closely related to Cranial Osteopathy, began its evolution in early 20th century. Created by Dr. William Sutherland, Cranial Osteopathy began as a branch of Osteopathic Medicine. During his research he began to have new revelations concerning the cranium, spine, sacrum, and their related physiological systems. His studies also led him to realize the presence of Qi, which he referred to as The Breath of Life. In the later part of the 20th century, Dr. John Upledger and a select group clinical researchers and professors to further investigate the findings of Dr. Sutherland and Cranial Osteopathy. He later developed and began teaching CranioSacral Therapy to students who did not hold degrees in Osteopathic Medicine. This form of treatment is widely popular today.

Typical Treatment:

A typical CranioSacral treatment begins with questions for the therapist to get acquainted with a patient’s medical history. Treatment is usually performed with patients fully clothed lying on a massage table. The practitioner uses light touch techniques to evaluate the movement of the CranioSacral system and works to release any blockages and restore balance in the system. Practitioners also incorporate forms of Energy Healing into the treatment using techniques like directed intentions and energy manipulation to further add to the treatment. The number of sessions needed depend on the condition of the patient and how they react to the treatment.

Conditions Treated:

Allergies
Anxiety
Depression
Dyslexia/ Dyscalculia
Neuralgia
Sinusitis
Blood Pressure Disorders
Stroke recovery
Nervous system disorders
Spinal/ Brain Injuries
Osteo-arthritis
Neuropathy
Autism
Vertigo
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Migraine Headaches

Benefits:

Releases deep seated fatigue
Supports rapid recovery from illness
Reduces Stress
Non Invasive
No known side effects

Side-Effects/Contra-Indications:

No known side effects/ contraindications
Use CranioSacral Therapy as a complement to primary/emergency medical care

Educations/Schools:

Students aspiring to learn CranioSacral Therapy can do so at institutions dedicated to teaching CST, through massage/ bodywork schools, and as continuing/ complementary education in various programs. These institutions often hold seminars all over the country to educate and certify aspiring students. Depending upon the institution chosen, there are various levels of classes and certification.

Degree/License offered: Certified CranioSacral Therapist

Length of study: Each level of CST can often be learned in a few days through weekend courses/ week long seminars. Total length of study will depend on one’s intended depth study and the institution holding the course.

Cost/Financial Aid:Each level can cost an average $300-$1000 depending on school. Discounts may apply for students and package courses. Payment plans may also be available.

Practitioner Training & Licensure:

CranioSacral Therapy is often grouped together with Massage Therapy/ Bodywork. Though students become certified as CranioSacral Therapists, having a prior license as Massage Therapist, Chiropractor, Acupuncturist, Medical Doctor, or another form of medical care certification, conventional or holistic, might be necessary to practice in your area. Some institutions require these credentials before being accepted into the course.

Average Salary/Hourly Rate:

Because CranioSacral Therapists often work under the larger discipline of Massage Therapy, their salary is often very similar. Their earnings can range from $16-$120/hour, or $29,000-$100,000/year. This largely depends on one’s experience, credentials, area of practice, and type of clientele. Those with established private practices will make significantly more than those who work at spas, wellness clinics, and doctor’s offices.