What does Craniosacral Therapy do?
Many people describe Craniosacral Therapy as feeling like their body is being tuned. It is sometimes compared to smoothing the wrinkles out of a fabric: a gentle way of working with the tension and stress patterns the body holds. After a treatment you may notice a greater sense of stability, inner strength and body awareness. The treatment itself is gentle, and people often find the experience profound.
What happens during a treatment?
1. We talk
We begin by talking through any concerns you would like to address, although some people come simply to experience the deep relaxation craniosacral therapy can bring. I will ask about your health and wellbeing, and you are welcome to ask me questions too. Once we have agreed on the treatment, I will then explain the process.
2. You rest, fully clothed
You rest on a treatment couch, fully clothed. I place my hands on your body very gently. This is like listening for subtle rhythms, tensions and movements within the tissues. This can tell me which parts of your body are asking for attention. I then apply light touch, giving your body time to respond. This typically includes your head and spine, but may also include your shoulders, chest or abdomen. Sometimes my hands stay near a part of your body without touching it. As your body responds, I adapt my technique.
3. What you might feel
Although there is no physical manipulation, you may feel as though your body is being moved, stretched or released. You might notice warmth or coolness, gentle pressure or other sensations, often with a sense of settling. Sometimes it is useful to explore movement, and a gentle technique called tissue unwinding can help your body regain its normal, unrestricted mobility.I direct the treatment to the areas that need attention, but all parts of the body are related, so an issue in one area often calls for attention elsewhere. Craniosacral Therapy is a whole-person approach.
4. Your comfort comes first
I work in a way that is informed by an understanding of stress and trauma, so you stay in control of what happens throughout the session. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, please tell me straight away so I can respond. Your comfort and relaxation come first, and you never have to undergo anything you don’t like.
Who can have Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral Therapy is gentle, so it is suitable for people of any age. If you have a specific health concern, I will talk it through with you before we begin.
People come to Craniosacral Therapy for:
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deep relaxation
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a general sense of being “out of sorts”
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a greater sense of body awareness
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support during a demanding or stressful period
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support alongside other care while recovering from surgery or injury
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wellbeing during and after pregnancy
What people say about my work
“Dr. Hubert van Griensven is an excellent pain management physiotherapist. He takes the time to listen, explains everything clearly, and uses a very thoughtful, hands-on approach to treatment. I felt genuinely supported and noticed real improvement after working with him. He’s professional, knowledgeable, and easy to trust. Highly recommended."
Dr Hubert van Griensven
RCST | MCSP | DipAc | PhD | MSc (Pain)
Craniosacral Therapist, Physiotherapist, Pain Specialist
​I have spent much of my career working with persistent pain, and I bring the same careful, person-centred attention to every session. You are welcome to ask me anything before you book.
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Qualified as a physiotherapist in 1988
Former clinical specialist with the pain management team at Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Trust
PhD, and MSc in Pain
Registered Craniosacral Therapist
If you live with persistent pain, you may also be interested in:
Chronic Pain Therapy
If you come to me for persistent pain or stress, we spend time to discuss what you have been through. I can help you understand your pain and give you strategies to get your life back on track. We can agree on a treatment programme to normalise the way your system deals with pain.
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I can combine this treatment with Craniosacral Therapy, as appropriate, helping you to tune into the wisdom of your body, experience deep relaxation and reconnect with the happy and healthy parts of yourself.