What is CFT?

Founded by Dr. Barry Gillespie, Craniosacral Fascial Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive form of bodywork that focuses on releasing restrictions in the facia and supporting the natural movement within the craniosacral system. Through slow, intentional touch, soft head holds, and gentle body unwinding, CFT helps improve mobility, nervous system regulation, and overall wellness.

CFT is a full-body fascial approach, combining Craniosacral Therapy of Dr. William Upledger and Myofascial Release of John F. Barnes, PT, along with dental techniques (when the body calls for it) developed from Dr. Gillespie's own experience as a periodontist.

The craniosacral fascial system originates in the body's core around the brain and spinal cord, and extends through the fascial web; a complex system of connective tissue that permeates the entire body.. A healthy system allows for the free flow of cerebrospinal fluid from the brain, down the spine, to the sacrum, and into the fascia throughout the body.

Our brain has an inherent motion of expansion and contraction which optimizes the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Trauma, both physical and emotional, can restrict or damage this motion, which can then greatly affect our health and wellbeing.

The CFT techniques, which are performed while you are fully-clothed, are designed to gently unwind and release accumulated fascial strain. The practitioner begins by observing tension in the cranium by gently placing their hands under your head. Unwinding of the fascia may begin by slow, side to side movements of the head and neck. As this occurs, your body will tell your practitioner where they need to go, she will then follow the restrictions. She may pick up and move your limbs and/or digits in specific ways, allowing the body to further release tension.

This allows for greater cerebrospinal fluid mobility and better brain function. When the craniosacral fascial system is loose and open, there is free-flow of cerebrospinal fluid to help nourish and create an environment the body needs to detoxify and self-heal more effectively.

What is the difference between CFT and standard craniosacral therapy?

CFT: Gillespie Approach: treats the body as an interconnected web. It targets the craniosacral system and the fascial system simultaneously. The philosophy is that brain and spinal cord tension cannot be fully freed without releasing the body's connective tissue (fascia). In other words, CFT releases full-body fascial strain, allowing the craniosacral system to function optimally.

Craniosacral Therapy (CST): Upledger/Biodynamic: treats the central nervous system. It focuses almost exclusively on the 22 cranial bones, the sacrum, the meninges, and the cerebrospinal fluid.

CFT: Gillespie Approach: uses a blend of light pressure and active myofascial release. The therapist follows "fascial twists" and encourages the client's body to actively move, stretch, and unwind during the session to break up deep physical restrictions.

Craniosacral Therapy (CST): Upledger/Biodynamic: Uses an exceptionally light, passive touch-traditionally weighing only 5 grams (the weight of a nickel). The client lies completely still while the therapist evaluates and monitors the subtle rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid.

What causes restrictions/strain in the craniosacral fascial system?

*Trauma During Birth

*Chemical Toxicity

*Falls/Accidents/Injuries

*Surgeries

*Concussions

*Tongue Ties

*Dental Procedures: Expanders/Braces/etc...

*Emotional Trauma

*Nervous System Dysregulation

*Intubation

*Body Piercings

*Tattoos

*Traumatic Sports Play

What physical conditions may
IMPROVE with CFT?

*Headaches/Migraines

*Muscle Spasms/Pain

*Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

*Fibromyalgia

*Balance Difficulties/Vertigo

*Breathing Difficulties

*TMJD

*Foot Neuropathy

*Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

*Frozen Shoulder

*GERD

*Thyroid dysfunction

*IBS

*Pelvic Fascial Restriction

*Plantar Fasciitis

*Runny Nose/Allergies/Common Cold

*Vagus Nerve Dysfunction

*Double Vision

*Idiopathic Hypertension

*Constipation

*Autoimmune Difficulties

*and Many, more!

What emotional/mental conditions may IMPROVE with CFT?

*Nervous System Dysregulation

*Anger

*Anxiety

*ADHD

*Brain Fog

*Cognitive Dysfunction

*Depression

*Emotional Trauma

*Postpartum Depression

*Irritability

*Memory Loss

*Mood Swings

*Night Terrors

*Nervousness

*OCD

*Panic Attacks

*PTSD

*Sleep Disorders

*and More!

How To Prepare for Your CFT Appointment

*If you have longer hair, please leave it down

*Wear comfortable clothes

leggings, loose shorts/pants, loose top, tank top

(no jeans, no skirts/dresses, no belts, nothing restrictive)

*Remove all jewelry

including rings, bracelets, earrings, anklets, toe rings etc...

*Avoid caffeine/stimulants

6 hours prior to appointment

*Come with an Open Mind

You may have a specific area that hurts, but that may not be where the

fascial restriction(s) are

*Remember to Relax

CFT will work best if you allow your body to soften

I am so honored and excited for you to experience this beautiful service. While the physical shifts are meaningful and important, I am especially looking forward to the emotional support and sense of inner calm it may bring you. May this be a gentle invitation for your body, mind and spirit to reconnect and feel deeply supported.