CFT guidelines - Gillespie Approach–Craniosacral Fascial Therapy

Triple AAA Roadside Assistance Guide for the CFT Practitioner

I tend to be a left brained lover of details and science. This tendency can be a hindrance when doing CFT since I really need to be in my right brain and “listening” more than thinking. Creating the AAA mantra has helped me stay in the moment and not drift into a technical stupor blocking treatment.

AAA = Ask, Allow and Assist.

Ask

CFT practitioners “ask” their clients what they need, how they can help and where the “yes” is presenting. This is done not through words, but by strategic hand placement and intention.

Allow

By detaching from the outcome during treatment, placing ego on the bench and creating a safe environment for the client, CFT practitioners “Allow” movement that might present after asking. Maintaining therapeutic presence is essential for allowing.

Assist

If movement presents, then the practitioner has the privilege and responsibility of assisting the client in acquiring the necessary body position to release the strain pattern.

Sign up for Gillespie Approach Training Opportunities

Gillespie Approach Foundation Training is designed for students to work with children and adults.

2026 Dates:

  • January 22–24 | Melbourne, FL
  • March 19–21 | Greenville, SC
  • May 14–16 | Westfield, IN
  • June 25–27 | Bozeman, MT
  • August 6–8 | Boise, ID
  • October 1–3 | Olathe, KS
  • November 9–11 | Newtown Square, PA
  • November 12–14 | Newtown Square, PA

Gillespie Approach Infant Training is designed for students to work with infants.

2026 Dates:

  • January 25–27 | Melbourne, FL
  • March 22–24 | Greenville, SC
  • May 17–19 | Westfield, IN
  • June 28–30 | Bozeman, MT
  • August 9–11 | Boise, ID
  • October 4–6 | Olathe, KS
  • November 15–17 | Newtown Square, PA

New to Gillespie Approach–Craniosacral Fascial Therapy?

Read a collection of articles handpicked by Dr. Barry Gillespie to help you grasp core information and understand training and treatment options.

Talk About the Gillespie Approach With Our Community on the Gillespie Approach Forum

Catch Every Story! Get a Free E-book and Infographic With Your Email Newsletter Subscription

Explore Gillespie Approach–Craniosacral Fascial Therapy Articles Based on Hundreds of Health Conditions and Anatomical Regions

Enjoy Many Powerful Testimonials for Babies, Children and Adults

From fussy babies experiencing breakthroughs and children excelling in school to adults emerging triumphant over mystery health conditions, get inspired by these heartwarming and soul-stirring testimonials.

Watch the Latest Gillespie Approach Videos and Check the Archive

  Translate

Get the free email newsletter, infographic and e-book How Your Fussy Baby Can Become A Happy Baby