| Spa Wellness Articles :: Program Descriptions & Career Overviews :: Craniosacral Studies • Craniosacral Programs |
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| Craniosacral Studies • Craniosacral Programs |
| by Robyn Tellefsen |
Craniosacral therapy is a system of gentle touch designed to enhance the functioning of the membranes, tissues, fluids, and bones surrounding or associated with the brain and spinal cord. Craniosacral therapists subtly manipulate the bones of the face, head, vertebral column, and the membranes beneath the skull, allowing free movement by the cerebrospinal fluid and balancing energy fields. Craniosacral therapy is most commonly used to treat headaches, ear infections, TMJ-related jaw pain, strokes, autism, and more.
What You'll Learn
In a craniosacral program, you'll learn how to approach and interact with the craniosacral system, understanding how it relates to the rest of the body. You will enhance your understanding of fascial intelligence and gain the ability to do a diaphragm-by-diaphragm release over the whole body. You will also learn basic cranial lifts and neck-releasing techniques, and you will give and receive practice sessions to master all the craniosacral techniques you learn.
Degree Types
Because it involves fairly delicate manipulations of the spine and skull, continuing education, certification, and postgraduate craniosacral programs are generally restricted to licensed health professionals who wish to add this therapy to their practice. Some craniosacral courses and certificate programs may be open to students currently enrolled in a professional health program.
Career Paths
Those trained in craniosacral therapy typically use their skills in professional bodywork, including Acupuncture, chiropractics, Massage therapy, occupational therapy, osteopathy, physical therapy, Polarity Therapy, Structural integration, and traditional medicine.
Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistic, employment for massage therapists, including craniosacral therapists, is expected to increase 20 percent from 2006 to 2016, faster than average for all occupations. Median wage and salary hourly earnings of massage therapists were $16.06 in May 2006; the highest 10 percent earned more than $33.83.
Licensing and Accreditation Information
Programs that incorporate craniosacral therapy training may be accredited by the Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (http://www.comta.org) or the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (http://www.accsct.org), both of which are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Institutions may also be approved as craniosacral continuing education providers by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork (http://www.ncbtmb.com).
Visit the American Massage Therapy Association (http://www.amtamassage.org) to learn about the state licensing boards that regulate massage therapy and bodywork, which can include craniosacral therapy.
About the author:

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| Schools that offer Massage |
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