Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, light-touch manual therapy that releases tensions and imbalances throughout the body while supporting the natural flow of cerebrospinal fluid within the head and spinal column. This soothing approach can ease physical pain, release emotional and physical stress, and promote deep relaxation. CST is also believed to help restore natural cranial mobility and alleviate restrictions in the head, neck, and nervous system.

We all know that regular movement keeps us healthier—people who stay active generally feel and function better than those who lead sedentary lives. Motion truly is life, and a lack of it leads to decline. This principle extends far beyond gross body movement. We easily recognize how the femur and tibia articulate at the knee or how the humerus and ulna move at the elbow. But consider the subtle, constant gliding within: your lungs articulate with your heart and diaphragm with every breath; your liver, stomach, and spleen slide smoothly beneath the diaphragm as you bend to tie your shoes. Every tissue and fluid in the body moves and glides upon one another in harmony.

At Carolina Psychiatry, we recognize that this freedom of motion is especially vital for the deep tissues and fluids that surround, protect, and nourish the brain and spinal cord. When these delicate systems are restricted, the central nervous system can become dysregulated. CST offers profound healing and regulating effects by gently restoring balance here. Yet its benefits extend far beyond the head and spine—CST can be applied anywhere in the body to release tensions, normalize function, and relieve pain.

Because CST uses such extremely gentle pressure, it is safe and beneficial for people of all ages, from infants to seniors.

ACCORDING TO THE CLEVELAND CLINIC, CST MAY HELP RELIEVE SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH:

ADD/ADHD
Anxiety and panic attacks
Autism
Brain and spinal cord trauma
Central nervous system disorders
Chronic (long-term) neck and back pain
Dyslexia
Fascial pain
Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
Learning disabilities
Migraines and headaches
Motor-coordination impairments
PTSD
Scoliosis
TMJ disorder

CST MAY ALSO SUPPORT TREATMENT FOR CONDITIONS SUCH AS:

Multi-symptom/Multi-system chronic illness related to brain and nervous system dysregulation
Trauma recovery, including trauma from whiplash
Mood disorders like anxiety and depression
Disturbed sleep cycles and insomnia
Irritable Bowel Syndrome – IBS
Constipation
Difficult pregnancies

WHAT TO EXPECT: PROCEDURE AND TECHNIQUE

When you arrive for your session, your practitioner will discuss your symptoms, health history, and any preexisting conditions.

You remain fully clothed during treatment (comfortable clothing is recommended). Sessions last 55 minutes. You’ll lie comfortably on your back on a therapy table to begin.

The practitioner will gently evaluate your body to identify where to start—often at the head, feet, or mid-body. Using just five grams of pressure (roughly the weight of a nickel), they will lightly hold areas like your feet, head, or sacrum to sense subtle rhythms and restrictions.

If needed, the practitioner may apply gentle holds, subtle repositioning, or tissue-release techniques—always supporting a limb or area—to help normalize cerebrospinal fluid flow and release deep tensions.

DURING TREATMENT, CLIENTS COMMONLY EXPERIENCE SENSATIONS SUCH AS:

Profound deep relaxation
Falling asleep, sometimes with vivid memories or colors emerging afterward
Sensing gentle pulsations or waves
A “pins and needles” or numbing feeling
Warmth, coolness, or other subtle temperature changes

This gentle yet powerful therapy invites your body to unwind at its deepest levels, often leaving you feeling renewed, balanced, and more at ease. Many clients report lasting improvements in pain, stress, and overall well-being after just a few sessions.

If you’re ready to experience the calming, restorative benefits of Craniosacral Therapy, contact Carolina Psychiatry today to schedule your appointment.