Niel Asher Education
Craniosacral Therapy Essentials: Theory and Application

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Niel Asher Education

Craniosacral Therapy Essentials: Theory and Application

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

5 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Intermediate level

Recommended experience

5 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • How to identify and release craniosacral restrictions through gentle palpation

  • How to integrate craniosacral methods into rehabilitation and performance care

Details to know

Shareable certificate

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Recently updated!

December 2025

Assessments

3 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Integrative Bodywork Techniques for Practitioners Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 3 modules in this course

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.

What's included

9 videos4 readings1 assignment1 discussion prompt

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.

What's included

11 videos1 reading1 assignment

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.

What's included

1 video1 assignment1 discussion prompt

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Niel Asher Education
Niel Asher Education
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