Overview

By the end of this course, you will (1) assess and treat craniosacral imbalances using gentle, precise touch and (2) apply integrative techniques to support self-correction and healing. Led by Kelly Saxton, ATC, this course introduces the anatomy and physiology of the craniosacral system and guides learners through practical applications. You’ll explore techniques for listening to cranial rhythms, identifying restrictions, and promoting fluid motion and tissue release. Real-world demonstrations and case discussions emphasize how to incorporate craniosacral work into rehabilitation and performance programs. This course stands out for its accessible, clinically grounded approach—connecting subtle palpation skills with measurable functional outcomes in pain, posture, and stress reduction.

Syllabus

Introduction and Overview to CST

In this module, instructor Kelly Saxton introduces Integrative Craniosacral Therapy and explains what makes this modality unique in clinical practice. Students learn that craniosacral therapy is a slow, light-touch manual therapy focused on influencing the central nervous system by working with the cranial bones, fascia, membranes, and cerebrospinal fluid rhythm. The course traces the origins of the work from Dr. William Sutherland in the early 1900s to Dr. John Upledger’s later contributions, including research and clinical applications with athletes, military programs, and neurological conditions. Kelly emphasizes that craniosacral therapy is grounded in anatomy and physiology, not mysticism: practitioners use bone movement, fascial relationships, and neurological responses to guide treatment. This module prepares learners to feel subtle rhythmic motion, understand the connection between cranial structures and the rest of the body, and begin thinking beyond symptom-based treatment toward whole-system assessment.

CST Treatment

Module 2 focuses on treatment application and hands-on craniosacral methods. Students are guided through positioning, palpation, and techniques that influence structures such as the cranial membranes, ventricular system, dura mater, venous sinuses, and key cranial bones including the sphenoid, occiput, temporal bones, and hard palate. Kelly explains how to work with embryological sutures, the cranial base, TMJ, the hyoid system, and intraoral components that affect breathing, airway tension, and cervical mechanics. The module demonstrates how to sense different qualities of tissue—vascular, neural, fascial, or bony—and how to follow the system rather than force direction. Students learn how rhythm changes (“drop into the system”), subtle shifts, and intuitive tactile awareness guide treatment decisions. The module concludes with clinical reasoning strategies, patient communication, and ways to integrate craniosacral work with other modalities to become a more confident, perceptive, and effective therapist.

Course Summary and Exam

This final exam is designed to assess your understanding of the key concepts presented throughout the course. Please review all video lessons and written materials before beginning. A passing score of 70% or higher is required to successfully complete the course and earn your CE certificate. You may reference your notes during the exam. Once you pass, your certificate will be available for immediate download.