
CRANIOSACRAL FOR SKEPTICS
about the course
See right-hand column for upcoming class and class format information -->
Craniosacral work is commonly taught using physiologic models for which there’s little scientific evidence. Practitioners often don’t agree on what they’re feeling in the same patient. And randomized trials don’t see a difference in outcomes between Craniosacral and gentle-touch modalities.
And yet, for many seasoned practitioners and patients, this work is experienced as uniquely beneficial. The way that Craniosacral touch manifests over the course of a session, the images that guide the touch, and the sense of very deep contact using minimal pressure -- these make for a compelling therapeutic encounter.
The tension between these realities leaves many practitioners with a real dilemma: How to deepen their skills and deliver good care without propagating the ideological flotsam. Can it be done?
I don’t know. But I know it is possible to delight in that challenge. To stay curious about what’s really driving our palpatory experience, and stay connected to our clinical intuition. That is the aim of this class. Real methods coupled with careful claims.
Can the methods of Craniosacral be taught without making anti-scientific claims? Can we hone our direct palpatory experience and also ask critical questions? Find out in this fun and profound tour of science, mindset, and introductory methods.
WE WILL COVER
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Historical/philosophical context in which Cranial Osteopathy and Craniosacral work evolved
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Unifying principles of Craniosacral work, and why it might be valuable
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Physiologic claims used in teaching Craniosacral, and why they’re often problematic
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Hands-on Experience: Focusing on the real & emergent sensory conversation.
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How to speak about meaningful intersubjective encounters without making unscientific claims.
NOTE: This class is *not* for those seeking to bolster their argumentation, for/against Craniosacral. (You can read a blog for that.) Intellectual humility is a must if we are going to get anywhere interesting.
continuing education certification
ONLINE OR IN-PERSON
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This 4-hour Continuing Education class is open to all healthcare practitioners licensed in Manual/Massage Therapy, and meets the WA state CE requirements for physical therapy and massage therapy.
NOTE: All virtual classes have a 'live' option, or can be viewed on your own time. All attendees will receive pre-class content, live class recording, supplementary materials, and a follow-up quiz for CE credit.
class format
Once registered, attendees will:
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receive pre-class videos via email to watch in preparation
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class (live or in-person) (10am-2pm)
attend class which includes the above lecture and a hands-on demo/practice session. A Zoom link will be provided for those joining online. A recording of the session will be provided at the end of class
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receive a follow-up quiz to grant you a Continuing Education Certificate for completion