We provide Craniosacral Therapy for clients throughout Western Massachusetts, including the Pioneer Valley, as well as the Hudson Valley of New York, Southern Vermont, and Southern New Hampshire.

Northampton, Massachusetts (Main Practice)
43 Center Street, Suite 201
Northampton, MA 01060

Philmont, New York (Secondary Practice)
7 Maple Avenue
Philmont, NY 12565

We also offer in-home CranioSacral Therapy by appointment for clients who are unable to travel. Please contact us to discuss availability and scheduling.

John Rollinson, DEu, CST-D, is fully certified in Craniosacral Therapy through the Upledger Institute and specializes in Craniosacral Therapy and SomatoEmotional Release® - holistic therapies that promote health and well-being by restoring balance within the nervous system and supporting the body’s innate healing processes.

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Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a hands-on holistic therapy that works with the membranes and connective tissues surrounding the brain, spinal cord, and sacrum. Using a light touch - about the pressure of the weight of a nickel - the practitioner taps into the nervous system and encourages the body’s natural ability to release tension and restore balance on physical, mental, and emotional levels. CST has its roots in the tradition of osteopathic medicine. Sessions are performed while you remain fully clothed.

Many people describe CST as deeply relaxing, while others notice subtle physical or emotional shifts during or after treatment. Often, the most meaningful changes continue to unfold in the days that follow as the body integrates the work.

Though gentle in approach, CST can be remarkably effective in easing pain and discomfort, including low back pain, neck pain, joint pain, and headaches. It can also help reduce anxiety, support emotional well-being by calming the nervous system, and benefit children experiencing behavioral or emotional regulation challenges - all while enhancing the body’s innate capacity to heal.

My approach focuses on the whole person - not just a collection of symptoms. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or looking for support during times of stress, CST can become a trusted part of your journey toward greater health and vitality. One of my specialties is supporting recovery following motor vehicle accidents (MVAs).

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By helping the body release patterns of tension and restriction, Craniosacral Therapy helps support the healthy functioning of the central nervous system, encourages the body’s innate healing capacity and promotes overall health and well-being.

People seek CST for a wide range of of concerns, here are just a few:

• Stress and tension

• Headaches and migraines

• Neck and back pain

• Recovery from injuries, including motor vehicle accidents

• Chronic pain and fatigue

• Jaw tension (TMJ dysfunction)

• Anxiety and emotional stress

• Behavioral and emotional regulation challenges in children

• General relaxation and wellness

Because every person is unique, each treatment is tailored to the individual. Some people experience immediate relief and deep relaxation, while for others, subtle changes continue to unfold in the days following a session.

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Visit our contacts page for rates and insurance information.

There is no set number of sessions. Your needs will depend on your health history, goals, and how your body responds to treatment.

Some people experience noticeable changes after a single session, while others benefit from a series of treatments. Many clients notice meaningful improvements after three or four sessions, and some choose ongoing care as part of their wellness routine.

Together, we'll discuss your goals and determine a treatment plan that feels right for you.

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SomatoEmotional Release (SER) is an advanced CranioSacral Therapy approach that recognizes the close relationship between the body, emotions, and lived experiences.

Although emotional awareness or memories may naturally arise during a session, SER is not psychotherapy. The focus remains on supporting the body's release of tension and restriction rather than analyzing thoughts or providing psychological treatment.

Unlike psychotherapy, SER does not involve diagnosis, counseling, or advice. Instead, the practitioner follows the body's responses, creating a safe and supportive environment in which clients can notice and process whatever naturally emerges.

Each person's experience is different. Some people experience only physical relaxation, while others gain new insights into long-standing patterns. The goal is not to direct the process, but to support your body's innate wisdom and capacity for healing at a pace that feels right for you.

Yes. Every Craniosacral Therapy session is unique, and each person experiences it differently.

Some people notice deep relaxation, warmth, gentle movement, or subtle sensations during treatment. Others simply rest quietly or even fall asleep. Not feeling much during your session does not mean that nothing is happening.

Because CST works with your body’s natural healing processes, it is common for the effects of a session to continue unfolding over the following days. Many people notice improvements in how they feel physically, mentally, or emotionally as their body integrates the treatment.

As with any therapy, each person’s response is unique, and healing occurs at its own pace.

Occasionally, as we work to release long-held patterns of tension and restriction, you may become more aware of areas that previously felt tight, numb, or had simply gone unnoticed. Sometimes, old injuries or patterns of strain may temporarily come back into your awareness as your body adjusts.

This is referred to as tissue memory: the body can retain patterns that stem from past injuries or experiences. Any temporary soreness or discomfort following a session is typically mild and resolves within a day or two.

If you experience significant, worsening, or persistent pain after your session, please contact us and consult your healthcare provider if appropriate.

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Our general office hours are:

• Monday–Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Thursday: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Appointments outside these hours may be available by arrangement. Please contact us if you require a different appointment time.

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