Craniosacral Programs with Lauren Christman
The Therapeutic Training Center is pleased to host the Craniosacral programs and classes currently taught by Lauren Christman, LMT, CCST, CBSI/ATSI. These programs offer practitioners the opportunity to build a foundation in craniosacral therapy — as a complete and distinct method of manual therapy — and to go beyond that foundation in personalized ways. Coursework in classical craniosacral therapy (biomechanical) as well as biodynamic methods are woven together in the Core Series. From there, students can choose to include visceral, neural and myofascial methods — all taught from the same guiding principles and with the same teaching team. These programs, originally developed by Ursula Popp, LAc, VCST, are based on the philosophy and methods of A. T. Still, William Sutherland, John Upledger, Rollin Becker and Hugh Milne. Since taking over the program in 2017, Lauren has further developed the curriculum, drawing on the work of Ida Rolf, Tom Myers, and Jean-Pierre Barral.
About Craniosacral: Craniosacral therapy has evolved from roots in manual osteopathy into a method to a gentle, effective mode of treatment for people of all ages and conditions. Using our clarity of attention and depth of listening, we support and guide the body toward balance. Treatment focuses on the fluid body, which bridges the physical, emotional or spiritual dimensions. Craniosacral is centered in stillness and witnessing the unfolding patterns of health, first through the fluid body (the “Tide”) and then further into the dense body.
"I find the most marvelous thing to be the intelligence of the "Tide" expressing itself in the patient as I treat. The process of healing that occurs under my palpatory gaze amazes me. If anyone wants to be inspired in their quest for health, they should have the opportunity to look at how the body heals itself." ~ Paul Lee, DO
Perceiving and working with this intelligence requires a foundation in structural anatomy, particularly of the cranial bones, membranes and central nervous system. This is coupled with a thorough appreciation of the functional nervous system: sympathetic and parasympathetic responses to safety, stress and overwhelm. Together, structure and function are expressions of our health and intelligence as human beings.
Engaging and freeing the body's self-healing capacity is the goal of craniosacral treatment methods. These methods are gentle – usually accomplished with light touch – and keenly directed – using on-going assessment and simple interventions to invite change. Each session is a creative dance with the integrated body-heart-mind of the client.
About These Craniosacral Programs: These programs integrate the biomechanical and biodynamic branches of craniosacral therapy. Students learn a variety of perceptual skills, assessment methods, foundational anatomy and physiology, assessment methods for local and systemic imbalances, and treatment approaches for each of the three ‘tides’. Additionally, students are encouraged and supported in deepening their self-understanding and self-care practices – fostering the personal maturity and presence that this subtle work requires.
Lauren Christman's Biography: To read Lauren's biography, please click HERE.
Craniosacral Classes and Programs
Registration and class details are provided in individual class descriptions and programs.
- Craniosacral Introductory Workshop - 21 hours
- Core Series (8-10 month program) - 140 hours
- Certification (18-24 month program) - 230 hours
- Elective Classes - 21 hours
Next Core Series and Certification programs will begin November 5, 2025.
- "Lauren is a strong example of a great teacher. Her ability to combine a rigorous intellectual approach with gentleness, warmth, nurturance and safety was amazing. She brought a tremendous amount to this group with her ability to give space to everyone so that we all felt able to be who we were and learn in our own style and pace without feeling 'less than.'" ~ Fiona Palmer, UK
- "Craniosacral is teaching me to grow my comfort zone, to trust and believe in myself. It’s also teaching me to slow down, be still and just listen, not just in my practice, but in my personal life as well. My entire practice has shifted and grown roots as a result of craniosacral therapy and the Core Series." ~ Jen C (graduate)
- "I feel like the program has not only taken my practice to a whole different level. I'm also in a whole different, a better place, better able to give and receive. I'm more mindful of my clients and their needs. Lauren is an amazingly gifted, talented teacher. She is not only nurturing and warm, but provides a safe, fun environment that is conducive to learning. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. ~ Nancy H (graduate)
- "Lauren goes very deep with her explanations to questions. She really takes her time with her answers, and she approaches the answer from different angles (making sure everyone understands). I love that about her." ~ Brigitta B (graduate)
- "Lauren Christman graduated from my program in 2003, has assisted me in many classes, and was very instrumental in supporting my program when I started on my own (after I left the Milne Institute). Having her step into my program in 2017 and continuing it could not be more fortunate. I am very grateful and excited to know that she will continue what I started, crafting it with her own unique signature." ~ Ursula Popp LAc, VCST (founder)
