BIODYNAMIC CRANIOSACRAL FOUNDATION TRAINING
Our 14th 700-hour comprehensive, experiential series begins fall/winter, 2025
New location! Chatham, New York
Taught by Elsie White with guest instructors Sondra Loring, Pat Tschannen, Janis Gildin and others.
Meeting two consecutive days, Thursday-Friday, every 8 weeks.
Proof of negative Covid rapid test may be required each morning of class.
The beauty of studying craniosacral therapy slowly over time is that it allows participants ample opportunity to integrate and practice this meditative approach to bodywork. Each day’s format will include perceptual exercises, hands-on practice, lecture and discussion.
Over the course of three years, the training includes the study of embryo to adult anatomy, and gently addresses every system in the human body. We explore breath, heart, muscles and fascia, the nervous system, viscera, cranium and pelvis, as well as birth and trauma issues. In short...life!
The experience of Biodynamic craniosacral therapy can be deeply profound for both giver and receiver. The nervous system slows gently, seeking balance, facilitating our innate capacity for health and self-regulation. Unlike most forms of bodywork, Biodynamic craniosacral therapy addresses the body as a fluid entity--after all, 80 percent of our body is fluid--rather than focusing on one specific system.
Unique to this model of craniosacral therapy is reference to the incredible development of the human embryo as both historical guide and basis for health and fluidity at all ages.
Biodynamic craniosacral therapy is subtle yet expansive...still yet dynamic...quiet yet potentially life-changing. We synchronize with a slow tempo and a mindful presence. In this work "perception is developed as a fine art." The practitioner learns to engage with the inherent healing wisdom that exists naturally in every being.
"The space we created together as a group was an invaluable part of my experience with BCST. I also deeply appreciate your level of expertise and caring as a teacher and mentor. We are very lucky to have someone such as yourself in the healing arts community." --Kathleen Vroman, LMT
"The sequencing of the individual classes as well as the progression of the program are well thought out. The experiential meditations are fantastic. Truly, I loved it all…This course was phenomenal." --Kimberly Marks, LCSW
Students are given assigned readings in handouts, posted articles and textbooks, which are available here at the Turtle Back Bookstore. Brief session write-ups and/or journaling will be expected as the training proceeds. The 700 total hours represent a combination of classwork, practice sessions, reading/listening/video assignments and final projects.
BCST Certification is completely optional and requires two projects done during the last third of the training or within a year after graduation. BCST Certification from Turtle Back Craniosacral is recognized by the International School of Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy. Certified graduates can apply for RCST® status from the Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy Association of North America (BCTA/NA).
The first part of the Biodynamic Foundation Training is our four-day workshop Biodynamic Basics. If you missed Biodynamic Basics but have experienced a similar introductory course of study, you are welcome (with instructor's permission).
We are proud to offer this popular small group, in-depth training. It is the only one of its kind in upstate NY.
Class is limited to 12 committed students.
"Thanks so much to you for presenting these amazing BCST classes. I am so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such amazing work. I have learned so much and I love the people who come to the classes. So many different stories, everyone eager to heal themselves and others. Margery, you are such an inspiration. I had forgotten how interesting it really is to study the body and how everything fits together to connect us as human beings!" --Wendy Wood Ordway, CST, OTR/L, BCST
Foundation Training three-year curriculum
For detailed list of topics covered, click here.
Books required for the first year can be found at the top of the page in our bookstore. Click on the titles for easy online purchase.
Continuing Education Hours
This course is approved to provide 39 Continuing Education Hours per every three modules (234 CE Hours total) for both New York State-licensed and NCBTMB-certified massage therapists.
Prerequisite for the Foundation Training
Biodynamic Basics course or tutorials, or equivalent training as approved by instructor.
Please click here for details
Dates* & Hours
Thursday & Friday, 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
*Dates subject to change. Proof of negative Covid rapid test may be required each morning of class.
2023: Sept 21-22, Nov 16-17
2024: Jan 25-26, March 21-22, May 23-24, July 25-26, Sept 26-27, Nov 21-22
2025: Jan 23-24, March 20-21, May 22-23, July 24-25, Sept 25-26, Nov 20-21
2026: Jan 22-23, March 26-27, May 28-29
Location
Roots Holistic Wellness
25 Main Street
Chatham, NY 12037
To Register
Please complete our registration form here.
One-time $125 non-refundable* registration fee is required to secure your place.
(*If class must be cancelled due to public health restrictions, pre-paid fees will be returned.)
Scroll down for payment options.
Fees
Tuition for each two-day module is $275.
Note! Initial module, Sept 2023, must be paid in full (registration fee + tuition) no later than Sept 7, 2023.
• Non-refundable registration fee: $125
• Two-day class (paid at or within one week following prior class): $275
• Two-day class (paid 8 or more days after prior class): $290
Former Biodynamic Foundation students/grads: Re-take classes at half-price! (instructor permission required).
Cancellation policy
Ongoing classes: No credit or refunds given for days missed. All classes are recorded and available for viewing so students can stay current with both material and CE hours.
Payment
Checks may be made payable and mailed to:
Elsie White
3587 Rt 66
Valatie, NY 12184
OR pay with PayPal/credit card/debit card.
Please use this link: paypal.me/TurtleBackCranio