"Describing my Work" - the Contrast between Informed Touch and Protocols
When clients ask me about the uniqueness of my CranioSacral Therapy, I explain that it's not just about me being a different therapist. It's also about the depth of my approach. While many therapists follow protocols or procedures learned in school, my approach is more personalized and tailored to each individual's unique needs.
Protocols are great tools for learning. They break down sequencing and give you clear “if/then” structures. When you are back with clients, these protocols make recalling the new material more accessible. Without realizing it, the protocols can become the backbone of what we do. The ten-step protocol is an excellent example of this in CranioSacral therapy. Following an algorithm can lead to treating each client the same as other clients, triggering that specific “if/then” paradigm.
But my clients (and myself as the therapist) are not simplistic machines. We are complex beings affected by our distinct internal and external physical environments with unique spiritual & psychological propensities. I often say, “We are breathing, emoting, chemical beings seeking homeostasis at all costs.” As a therapist, I meet you as the whole person that you are in that moment. I do not reduce you to your symptoms, your stress, or anything else. CranioSacral Therapy has been my leading teacher in this holistic view and approach to bodywork. Whether I am doing CST or not, the principles of the body's intelligence to heal itself when all parts of the body are connected and communicating constantly guide me.
As a Upledger-based CranioSacral therapist, I bring years of training and experience in understanding the anatomy & physiology of the craniosacral system and its integration with the entire body. But my work doesn’t stop there. To support your holistic well-being, I also integrate Upledger-based Somato-Emotional Release (which incorporates dialoguing to access cellular memory of historical experiences to aid in present-day healing), Upledger-based Touching the Brain (which works with specific parts of the brain, and Healing from the Core (which blends presence & grounding energy work.) Combining these techniques allows each individual to be supported as a complete being, attending to the mind, body, and spirit/soul as they arise.
In addition to the above, I have training and experience in Myofascial Release (release restriction in the musculoskeletal system), Neuromuscular Technique (supports the peripheral nervous system), scar tissue mobilization (transforming scar tissue into healthy elastic tissue), and Manual Lymphatic Drainage (supports the immune system). I pull from this toolbox of skills whatever is necessary to help you in the present moment.