What is CFT?

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS CRANIOSACRAL FASCIAL THERAPY (CFT)?

Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) is the work of Dr. Barry Gillespie. It originated from the cranial osteopathic principles of Dr. William Sutherland, the myofascial release work of John Barnes, P.T., and Dr. Gillespie's background as a periodontist. It is based on Gillespie's theory that the craniosacral and fascial systems are not separate but one interconnected system.

CFT techniques are designed to gently unwind accumulated fascial strain, allowing optimal mobility and therefore better brain function. When the Craniosacral Fascial system is loose and open, there is optimal flow of cerebrospinal fluid to help nourish the body and cleanse toxins. 

WHAT IS THE CRANIOSACRAL FASCIAL SYSTEM?

The Craniosacral Fascial System originates in the body's core around the brain and spinal cord, and extends through the fascial web. Fascia is the body’s connective tissue. It is an all-encompassing web found throughout the body that structurally supports and protects the entire body as a whole. It is a transport system that helps nourish and detoxify the body.

A healthy system allows for the free flow of cerebrospinal fluid from the brain, down the spine and into the fascia. Strain anywhere in that system may affect brain function and mobility. Our brains must expand and contract, and any restrictions or damage to this motion, such as those due to difficult birth or head injury, can greatly affect our health and wellbeing.  

WHAT IS A TREATMENT LIKE?

A CFT session is done fully clothed on a massage table (sometimes floor for children). I encourage my clients to wear comfortable yoga type clothing. The session begins with an intake and assessment of brain motion. Then, according to the areas that present themselves as constrained, we will gently unwind the fascial strain to open the system. The treatment consists of a gentle touch to release tightness and toxins. At times, you may feel some stretching or there may be a more active "unwind" motion.

HOW MANY CFT SESSIONS WILL IT TAKE?

We all have layers of fascial strain that can be unwound to release physical/emotional pain and trauma from the body. I usually suggest planning for 4-6 sessions to begin the healing process. Many clients find great relief after just one or two sessions but deep healing can take more time, especially if there have been many injuries or traumas to the body. CFT is a modality that can provide relief to the body and nervous system regulation at any time.

HOW IS CFT DIFFERENT THAN CST?

Craniosacral Fascial Therapy (CFT) often gets confused with Craniosacral Therapy (CST). There is a subtle but significant difference between the two. Both are great modalities but this is how they are different:

  • CST only works on 2 systems. The cranial and the sacral system

  • CFT works those 2 systems PLUS the entire Fascial system - CFT is a whole body approach; In CST no one mentions the clinical importance of the body’s fascial web.

  • CFT is a combination of myofascial release (John Barnes’ MFR) and CST. It’s a blend of two modalities.

  • CFT can release tension inside the mouth with intraoral/dental techniques

What Could Benefit From CFT?

  • INFANTS

    Birth or labor issues

    Tongue / Lip Ties

    Torticollis (head tilt)

    Reflux / Colic

    Excessive Fussiness

    Latching/Nursing difficulties

    Sleep struggles

    Constipation

    Painful or Excessive Gas

    Head asymmetry/ Flat spots

    Earaches

    Difficulties reaching developmental milestones

  • CHILDREN

    Asthma

    Earaches

    Digestive Issues/ Pain

    Concussions

    ADHD/ADD

    Learning disorders

    Sinus conditions

    Anxiety

    Bedwetting

    Headaches

    Scoliosis

    Tongue / Lip Ties

    Speech

  • ADULTS

    Headaches/Migraines

    Back/Neck pain

    Digestive Issues

    TMJ

    Hip or Pelvic pains

    Sinus conditions

    Anxiety / Depression

    Limited range of motion

    Visual Strain / Eyesight

    Concussion

    Scars (Surgeries, C-Section)

    Tongue / Lip Ties

    Stiffness or tension in body

  • TETHERED ORAL TISSUES

    Tongue, Lip, or Buccal Ties

    Migraines

    TMJ

    Jaw clenching or grinding

    Head and neck tightness

    High palate

    Limited range of motion

    Sleep Apnea / Snoring

    Mouth Breathing

    Speech or Eating Issues

    …and more

Session Rates

60 Min. CFT Session

Adult sessions performed in-office. Infant/Child sessions can be done at client’s home or in-office. Multiple children can receive treatment during this time.

$75-$100 | Get started
*Ask me about discount packages for multiple sessions

30 Min. CFT Session

Existing clients only'; In-office only unless agreed upon otherwise.

$50 | Get started

Travel Fee

$25 for in-home visits that are located >25 minutes and <45 minutes from zip code 21286

If cost of a session is a true barrier in your ability to pursue optimizing your health through CFT sessions, please let me know. I value this work immensely and understand how costly things can become when pursuing alternative treatment options that aren’t covered by insurance. I offer sliding scale/donation-based services and will work with you to determine what is financially possible for you.

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