What to Expect

What to expect before, during, and after a Craniosacral Therapy session

Sessions typically last one hour. During that time, I will quietly and gently rest my hands on your head, neck, or other impacted areas. I will be listening to the subtle rhythms and tracking changes in your system. In this process, I will listen for your body’s expression of the order of priorities for this particular session.   It is important to note that while a single session can have noticeable effects, it often takes multiple sessions to achieve the results you are seeking.

During a craniosacral session, you might experience any of the following sensations:

  • Warmth in your face, spine or arms, legs.
  • Tingling in face or arms and legs.
  • Twitches or sometimes shaking in arms and legs, face or trunk.
  • Expansion of head/face or lengthening of neck.
  • Pains that come and go in any area.
  • Gurgling or other digestive noises.
  • Deep relaxation or sleepiness.
  • Movement of neck/head in one direction.
  • Seeing images or colors.
  • Emotions or memories (may be fleeting).

Testimonial

“I suffered from constant, severe headaches after being ill with mononucleosis last year. I saw a neurologist and chiropractor, had lots of tests like MRI’s, and was prescribed heavy-duty medications. Nothing helped, until I saw Margaret for craniosacral therapy. I felt some relief after the first session with Margaret. By the third session, the headaches were noticeably better and less frequent. This therapy has allowed me to return to my hobbies like horseback riding, and to be able to concentrate on my studies in school. I am able to live my life to the fullest without being in constant fear of my headaches.”

M.G. 

Are there any risks to CST?

CST is extremely safe and gentle, so can be used with all ages from newborns to elderly. There are very few absolute contraindications, though it is not recommended to use CST in cases of recent (unhealed) fractures or with active internal bleeding. These conditions can be ruled out by a physician, if suspected.

How long will it take to recover from a concussion?

Most people will be symptom-free within two weeks with proper rest. About 10% of persons with concussions suffer from pain or other problems like dizziness or difficulty concentrating for weeks or months after a concussion. This is called “post-concussion syndrome”. However, even when symptoms go away, there may still be residual effects and compensations happening internally. It is wise to treat these compensations with CST to achieve a more full recovery, and prevent later problems (pain, or learning problems, or serious disability such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy).

What other conditions besides concussion are treated by CCSPT?

Many physical ailments, especially those related to brain, spine and nervous system will benefit from CST. Sciatica (leg pain), back/neck pain and headaches (including migraines) are common complaints. Strain-counterstrain (SCS) is helpful to speed recovery from muscle strains or tendinitis. Muscle energy technique (MET) and functional indirect technique (FIT) are useful in resolving joint sprains, including back injuries and ankle sprains.

Somatic therapy including craniosacral therapy, Somatic Experiencing and Brainspotting are transformative for healing from trauma, and reducing anxiety and depression.

How many treatment sessions will I need?

It varies depending on severity and chronicity (how many months or years) of condition. Most people will feel a significant difference in six sessions; but may require treatment for longer periods for more full recovery.

How often do I need to come for treatment?

Usually once a week is recommended. In cases of acute pain or injury, it might be useful to do twice a week until pain or symptoms are more manageable. For somatic counseling 2-4x/month is a typical frequency. 

Will insurance cover my therapy visits?

CCSPT can provide an invoice to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement, or for tax purposes (e.g., HSA, flex spending). CCSPT is not contracted with any insurance companies. Visits may be covered as an out-of-network provider (physical therapy), under major medical insurance plans, and/or qualify as medical deductions. Insurance verification is the responsibility of the patient.

If you were in a recent auto accident, you will be able to be reimbursed for P.T. sessions. This will be expedited if you have Medpay under your auto insurance. CCSPT will provide you with an invoice/receipt for reimbursement purposes.

 

How much does a session cost?

$120/hour. CCSPT accepts cash, check or credit card for payment at time of visit.