Module 1 Intro: Counterstrain and the Cranial Scan - Spring 2025 (Portland, OR)

Module 1 is the foundational first step in the Counterstrain Mastery Program. It is a required course for all modules in the Mastery Program. The primary goal in Mod 1 is to introduce the entire cranial scan and impart clinical mastery of this phenomenal diagnostic tool.

In most cases the entire 40 hour program is dedicated to the cranial scan. First step is to make sure that each student is not only aware of what we are palpating for, but also to ensure that they are palpating in the right location. This requires a survey of cranial surface anatomy, bony landmarks and sutures. 

We will cover the common pitfalls associated with scanning each system and how to best avoid getting sucked in to treating false positives. In addition, the concept of "preparing the cranium" to yield accurate results will be explored in depth. Detailed treatment sequences to clear false positives from the scan will be demonstrated, followed with plenty of time for lab practice and even practice using the treatment sequences in a clinical application setting. This is often where short-term practice in the 3-day courses falls short in giving practitioners adequate exposure to how this technique is actually used in the clinic. 

Students will be required to demonstrate competency using the scan in each and every system. They will also be required to demonstrate surface anatomy and segmental palpation competency for the entire body. This includes spinous processes, para-vertebral levels, rib tubercles and bony landmarks of the entire rib cage, pelvis and the cranium.