Craniosacral Therapy in Ottawa

Gentle, Nervous System–Focused Care

Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on treatment that focuses on the craniosacral system — the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord.

Using a light touch, the practitioner works with the bones of the skull, spine, and pelvis to help release areas of tension and support the body’s natural ability to restore balance within the nervous system.

At Verve Movement, Craniosacral Therapy is provided by a Registered Acupuncturist, integrating principles of both Eastern and Western approaches to support relaxation, mobility, and overall well-being.

What to Expect During Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy is performed with the client lying comfortably on a treatment table.

Your practitioner uses gentle hand placements to assess and work with subtle movement patterns in the body. The treatment is typically very relaxing and many clients report feeling deeply calm during and after a session.

Sessions may be used on their own or integrated with other treatments depending on the client’s goals and preferences.

Potential Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy may help support the body in managing:

• Stress and tension
• Headaches and migraines
• Jaw tension (TMJ discomfort)
• Neck and back tightness
• Nervous system regulation
• Sleep disturbances
• General relaxation and recovery

As with many manual therapies, experiences and outcomes can vary from person to person.

Who May Benefit from Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral Therapy may be appropriate for individuals looking for a gentle, calming treatment approach. It is often chosen by people who:

• Feel overwhelmed or stressed
• Experience chronic tension or headaches
• Are recovering from physical or emotional strain
• Want a subtle, nervous-system focused therapy

Your practitioner will discuss your goals and help determine whether Craniosacral Therapy is a suitable option for you.

Integrative Care

Verve Movement offers Craniosacral Therapy as part of a multidisciplinary approach to health and wellness. Depending on your needs, care may also include collaboration with practitioners providing:

• Acupuncture
• Registered Massage Therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Kinesiology
• Fascia Stretch Therapy

This collaborative approach allows us to support your health from multiple perspectives.

What to Expect During Your Session

  1. Your Craniosacral Therapy session will begin with a brief discussion about your goals, health history, and any areas of tension or discomfort you may be experiencing.

  2. During treatment, you will lie comfortably on a treatment table. The practitioner will use very gentle hand placements around the head, spine, pelvis, and other areas of the body. Light pressure is used to assess and work with subtle movement patterns within the body.

Many people find Craniosacral Therapy deeply relaxing. Sessions are typically calm and quiet, allowing the nervous system to settle and the body to release tension naturally.

Depending on your needs, Craniosacral Therapy may be used as a standalone approach or integrated with acupuncture and other treatments.

Book a Craniosacral Therapy Session in Ottawa

Enhance your recovery, relieve tension, and support nervous system balance with Craniosacral Therapy at Verve Movement.

This treatment may be incorporated as part of your acupuncture care and can complement other services offered at our clinic, including:

  • Acupuncture

  • Registered Massage Therapy

  • Physiotherapy

  • Fascia Stretch Therapy

  • Kinesiology

  • Chiropractic Care

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Craniosacral Therapy uses an extremely light touch. Most people describe the treatment as calming and deeply relaxing. Some people notice subtle sensations such as warmth, gentle movement, or a sense of release in certain areas of the body.

  • No. The technique uses very gentle pressure and is designed to be a comfortable and relaxing experience.

  • Session length depends on the appointment you book with your practitioner. Craniosacral techniques are often incorporated within acupuncture sessions.

  • Coverage depends on your extended health benefits. Because treatment is provided by a Registered Acupuncturist, it may be eligible for reimbursement under acupuncture benefits. We recommend checking with your insurance provider.