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The Mission of the Dr. John E. Upledger Foundation is to support the overall therapeutic philosophies and visions of TIME Innovator for the current millennium, Dr. John E. Upledger.
This includes: providing treatment for those in need; supporting and developing existing and new innovative therapeutic programs and research, in such areas as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Concussions, Autism, and Dolphin Assisted Therapy; supplying education to therapists either via need based or in exchange for participation in our Heal it Forward Network; and promoting community and general awareness of Dr. John E. Upledger; his life’s work, philosophies, therapeutic methods and therapies and the world wide network of practitioners who practice and promote his living legacy.
The Intensive Therapy Programs of the Upledger Institute are unique, multi-disciplinary one or two week treatment programs designed to focus on particular issues such as autism, brain and spinal cord injuries, concussions, learning disabilities, etc. These programs, like all other Upledger Institute programs, use a mind-body-spirit approach to address the health care needs of the community. While a core group of therapists are assigned to each program, the programs also draw on the Institute’s diverse group of highly trained professionals to rotate through the programs and contribute their skills. These include physicians, physical therapists, massage therapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, doctors of oriental medicine, psychologists and counselors. Many of these professionals are cross-trained in a variety of complementary therapies as well.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that may be experienced by anyone who has undergone a traumatic experience. Contrary to popular belief, PTSD is not purely a psychological problem; it has deep roots in physiological changes that accompany a trauma.
In 1993 The Upledger Foundation embarked on a pilot project to test the efficacy of CranioSacral Therapy and its offshoot SomatoEmotional Release in treating and restoring quality of life to those suffering from PTSD. Six Vietnam veterans classified with severe cases of PTSD were tested. By program's end, each showed significant improvement.
In a subsequent 1999 program, Dr. Upledger and a team of therapists led 22 Vietnam veterans in a groundbreaking study using a protocol co-designed with the West Palm Beach Veterans Administration Medical Center. A post-program report by an independent licensed psychologist confirmed that the veterans experienced fewer symptoms by the conclusion of the program, most notably related to obsessive/compulsive behaviors, depression, lack of motivation, feelings of alienation, and total number and severity of general symptoms. More than a 95 percent correlation was noted between the improvements and the CranioSacral Therapy sessions the veterans received.
It is a goal of the Foundation to implement this work on a broader basis by aiding others, who may be experiencing PTSD, such as victims of rape and spousal abuse, and children who have survived kidnapping, sexual abuse or other traumas.
Since these programs began, the Intensive Programs have utilized a wide variety of modalities, incorporating new therapies as they become available. In addition, families and/or caregivers receive psychological support and training in basic techniques which allow them to continue the work at home.
Thank you for your contribution.
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