What Qualifications do I need to practice CranioSacral Therapy? There are Two Different Types of Answers. I get this question asked in two different contexts:
Firstly, when a person wants to check on how qualified I am to practice Craniosacral Therapy or to check on becoming a professional CranioSacral Therapist themselves.
Secondly, when a person wants to find out what they need to learn to either treat their own family and friends.
I'll start with the first aspect.
In order for a therapist to put CST-T (CranioSacral Therapist) after their name, they need to complete the following training as prescribed by the Upledger Institute (the awarding body):
Anatomy and Physiology (typically 6 months to 1 year)
CranioSacral Therapy 1 (210 hours including tuition, case-studies etc.)
CranioSacral Therapy 2 (180 hours including tuition, case-studies etc.)
CranioSacral Therapy Techniques Exam and Dissertation
On successful completion of the above, a therapist may use CST-T after their name. Further curriculum details may be found at
www.upledger.com
Other Qualifications. In practice, many CranioSacral Therapists already come from a therapy background such as Physiotherapy, Osteopathy, Physical Therapy, Reflexology, Massage etc. and so already have the necessary "feel" for the work.
Also, many therapists have taken many courses and workshops beyond the minimum requirement. I myself have completed:
Somato-Emotional Release 1
Somato-Emotional Release 2
Paediatrics
The Brain Speaks
... and look forward to advancing my abilities and knowledge in this fascinating and practical field.
Using CranioSacral Therapy on Your Family and Friends. To answer the second part of the question - many individuals want to know how they can become more familiar with CranioSacral Therapy for use with their family and friends.
Attend an Introduction to Cranisacral Therapy workshop (if available in your area) or go straight to "CranioSacral Therapy 1". This workshop will give you a very good grounding in the theory and techniques used in the therapy.
