Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you might want to know before your first visit.
Twenty answers to the questions we hear most often. Don't see yours? Get in touch, we'll get back to you within one business day.
About Craniosacral Therapy
- What is Craniosacral Therapy?
- Craniosacral Therapy (CST) is a hands-on, very gentle modality rooted in Osteopathic medicine. The practitioner uses extremely light touch, about the weight of a nickel, at the cranium, spine, and sacrum to release fascial restrictions and support the natural movement of cerebrospinal fluid around the central nervous system. The goal is to help your body's innate ability to regulate and heal.
- Does Craniosacral Therapy hurt?
- No. The touch in CST is one of the lightest of any manual therapy, roughly the weight of a nickel. Most clients describe it as deeply relaxing rather than painful or even particularly stimulating.
- How is Craniosacral Therapy different from massage?
- Massage works the muscle tissue with meaningful pressure; CST works the fascia and central nervous system with extremely light touch. They are complementary, not interchangeable. We have a full comparison page at Craniosacral vs. Massage.
- Who can benefit from CST?
- CST is appropriate for all ages, from newborns through seniors. Common reasons people seek CST include chronic pain, migraines, post-concussion symptoms, anxiety, insomnia, TMJ pain, recovery from physical or emotional trauma, pregnancy support, and pediatric concerns like reflux, colic, and torticollis.
Booking, pricing & insurance
- How much does a session cost?
- 60-minute Craniosacral Therapy sessions are $175. 60-minute Reiki + Craniosacral combination sessions are $200. Multi-session packages start at $525 for three sessions; we also offer 6-pack, 12-pack, and annual membership options.
- Do you accept insurance?
- Sessions are cash-pay. Many clients use HSA or FSA funds; we can provide a superbill on request. If insurance reimbursement is essential to you, please confirm coverage with your insurer before booking.
- Do you offer packages or memberships?
- Yes. Our Signature Ritual 3-pack is $525 for three bi-weekly sessions. We also offer a 6-pack ($840, 20% off), 12-pack ($1,680, 20% off), and an annual membership ($3,360, two sessions per month at 20% off). See the full package list for Westmont or Frankfort.
- Do you sell gift certificates?
- Yes, gift certificates are available through our Acuity catalog and make great gifts for a friend or family member who could use some restorative care. Contact us at info@thesunriseroom.com if you'd like help selecting one.
Before your session
- How do I prepare for my first Craniosacral session?
- Drink plenty of water in the hours before, wear comfortable loose-fitting clothing, and avoid eating a heavy meal in the hour beforehand. Arrive a few minutes early so you have time to settle. Our full first-session walkthrough lives at What to Expect.
- What should I wear?
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, soft pants and a t-shirt or sweater work well. Avoid anything tight at the neck, waist, or feet. You stay fully clothed throughout the session.
- Can I eat before my session?
- A light snack 60–90 minutes ahead is fine. Avoid a heavy meal immediately before, lying still on a treatment table after a big meal is uncomfortable for most people.
During the session
- What actually happens during a session?
- You lie face-up on a comfortable treatment table in a quiet room. Maura may guide you in a brief breath or short meditation to help you settle, then applies very light contact at the cranium, spine, sacrum, and key points to feel for restrictions and gently release them. Sessions are 60 minutes.
- Will I be undressed?
- No. You remain fully clothed throughout the session.
- Will I fall asleep?
- Many people do! Falling asleep on the table is common and welcomed. Some clients stay quietly awake; others drift between. Whatever happens is fine, your body is doing the work either way.
- Can I bring someone with me?
- For adult sessions, the session is just you and Maura, most clients prefer the quiet. For pediatric sessions, parents stay with their baby for the entire session. If you have a specific accommodation need, contact us beforehand and we'll make it work.
After your session
- How will I feel afterward?
- Most clients leave feeling calm, grounded, and noticeably lighter. Some feel mildly tired or a little "spacey" for an hour or two. Sometimes the biggest shift, better sleep, less pain, a quieter mind, shows up the next day rather than immediately after.
- Can I drive home?
- Most clients can drive home without issue. If you feel mildly disoriented or drowsy after the session, take a few quiet minutes before getting on the road.
- How often should I come in?
- It depends on what you are working with. Many clients notice meaningful change in a single session. For chronic concerns or nervous-system regulation, a bi-weekly series of three or more sessions is typical, which is exactly the structure of our Signature Ritual packages. Maura will give you a personalized recommendation after your first session.
- Is it safe during pregnancy?
- CST is widely used during pregnancy and is generally considered safe and supportive. Our Rock Me Slowly session is specifically designed for pregnancy and fertility. As with any therapy during pregnancy, please confirm with your OB or midwife before scheduling.
At our locations
- Where are you located?
- We see clients at two locations: the Center for Healing and Integration in Westmont (700 E Ogden Ave, Suite 304) and the Wholistic Wellness Center in Frankfort (20550 S LaGrange Rd, Suite 115).
- What are your hours?
- Westmont: Wednesdays & Thursdays, 8am–2pm. Frankfort: Tuesdays, 10am–4pm. Online booking shows real-time availability.
- Is there parking?
- Yes, free on-site parking is available at both locations. Both clinic spaces are inside larger wellness centers; enter through the main lobby and proceed to our suite (Westmont: Suite 304 · Frankfort: Suite 115).
Policies
- What is your cancellation policy?
- We kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment changes or cancellations. Cancellations made within the 24-hour window will incur a $50 fee, as this time has been reserved specifically for you.
- What if I arrive late?
- Sessions run on a schedule out of respect for the clients before and after you. If you arrive late, your session may need to end at its originally-scheduled time. If you know you'll be late, please call us as soon as you can.
- I'm sick, should I still come?
- Please reschedule for the safety of our other clients and Maura. We will waive the 24-hour cancellation fee for illness, just let us know as soon as you can. Call (630) 607-4447 or email info@thesunriseroom.com.
Still have a question?
We're happy to help you figure out whether Craniosacral Therapy is right for you.