As CranioSacral Ireland launches its new name, identity, and website, we take a moment to honour the remarkable journey of the Irish Association of Craniosacral Therapists (IACST). From humble beginnings to becoming a nationally recognised voice for Craniosacral Therapy (CST), this story celebrates the pioneers, volunteers, and current committee whose vision and dedication continue to shape the growth and recognition of CST in Ireland.
Where It All Began
In the early 2000s, Craniosacral Therapy remained relatively unknown in Ireland. At that time, training and professional standards were primarily aligned with the Upledger Institute in the UK, following the pioneering work of Dr John Upledger.
In Ireland, courses were organised and run by Heath and Mike Wilson, whose professionalism and expertise quickly gained recognition. The Upledger Institute subsequently appointed them as Directors of Upledger Ireland. Under their leadership, the organisation flourished—gaining international recognition and attracting world-class instructors, all personally trained by Dr Upledger. This significantly elevated the standard of CST education in Ireland and helped shape a new generation of highly skilled practitioners.
The Vision for a Professional Body
At the same time, two influential Department of Health forums in 2000 signalled a growing national interest in recognising and supporting complementary therapies. These forums sparked a series of informal but powerful discussions among CST practitioners during trainings across the country.
Amid heartfelt conversations and quiet reflections, four pioneering therapists—Heath and Mike Wilson, Anne Cronin, and Paul O’Malley—saw the need for something deeper: a professional home for Craniosacral Therapy in Ireland.
They envisioned a space rooted in integrity and care—one that would uphold the highest standards, guide new therapists with clarity, and carve a credible path for CST within the broader healthcare landscape.
The Kitchen Table Moment – The Birth of IACST
This vision wasn’t born in a boardroom, but in the warm simplicity of Heath and Mike’s kitchen. Around that humble table, something profound unfolded. In a gesture both practical and symbolic, each placed £20 Irish pounds on the table—a modest sum that carried great purpose. And so, the Irish Association of Craniosacral Therapists (IACST) was born—its foundation laid not just in funding, but in courage, collaboration, and belief in something greater.
Mike and Heath Wilson, Anne Cronin and Paul O Malley
The First Committee and the Early Days
From the spark ignited at that kitchen table, action followed quickly. Joining the four founders were the late Mick Ward, Jean McDonald, and Robert Ennis—each bringing steadfast passion and commitment to the first committee.
Together, they laid the groundwork for a professional association that would advocate high standards in education, professional support, and community building. The early years were rich with dedication, challenge, and purpose—and their legacy still echoes today.
Establishing CST as a Standalone Therapy
In the early days, Craniosacral Therapy was often recognised only as an adjunct modality—practitioners typically required qualifications in other bodywork therapies before CST was acknowledged.
The founding members of IACST recognised the importance of establishing CST as a standalone, fully recognised therapy. To achieve this, they developed a robust professional framework, setting clear standards for training, ethical practice, and practitioner competence.
This framework remains central to CranioSacral Ireland today, ensuring that accredited schools and therapists continue to meet the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and quality of care. It has been instrumental in raising the profile of CST and building public trust across Ireland.
Standing on the Shoulders of Those Who Followed
While the foundation was laid by the early pioneers, the association’s strength has come from the many committees and volunteers who have carried the torch since. Today’s progress stands firmly on these past achievements.
We honour the resilience shown—navigating growing pains, evolving landscapes, and organisational change with integrity and perseverance. Their shared belief in the quiet power of presence, the innate wholeness within each person, and the body’s capacity to heal has continued to illuminate our path.
Strong relationships have been built with wider public health services, including midwives, the La Leche League, homebirth networks, and healthcare professionals. These connections have helped CST become more widely recognised and valued within everyday healthcare awareness.
The Current Committee: Carrying the Vision Forward
The transition to CranioSacral Ireland marks not only a change of name but a digital transformation and renewal of the association as a whole.
Over the past year, the current committee has undertaken an ambitious project to bring the organisation fully into the modern era. Their work ensures it is fit to serve today’s members and support the continued growth of Craniosacral Therapy in Ireland.
This transformation has included the creation of a clear, modern identity with our new name and brand; the design and launch of an entirely new website; and the implementation of an improved membership platform that now provides a more professional, seamless experience for members and the public alike. The committee has also reviewed and refreshed membership materials, helping members present their work with greater clarity and credibility.
Importantly, the committee is dedicated to increasing CST’s visibility and recognition across the public, medical, health, and regulatory systems. Their collective efforts are building a strong foundation for a vibrant and respected future for CST in Ireland.
Decades later, CranioSacral Ireland Chairperson Mairéad Lavan returned to sit with founders Mike and Heath at their kitchen table. The table may have changed, but the shared commitment to Craniosacral Therapy still holds strong.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
As we step into this new chapter as CranioSacral Ireland, we do so with deep gratitude—for our founders, for every committee member and volunteer who followed, and for the vibrant community of therapists across Ireland who continue to share this work with care, presence, and integrity.
Their vision built more than an organisation.
They built a community. A movement. A lasting legacy.
And it is with that same spirit and renewed purpose that we now move forward committed to advancing the profile of Craniosacral Therapy across Ireland and beyond, and to serving both our members and the public with professionalism, heart, and integrity.
We look forward to continuing this journey with all of you.
IACST founding members Paul O Malley, Heath and Mike Wilson reunite at recent Upledger Ireland training.