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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.
In 1996 Dr. Upledger initiated a pilot project designed to investigate the effects of CranioSacral Therapy applied in an aquatic environment in which dolphins were present. The healing capabilities of dolphins have long been speculated - particularly relating to the high ultrasonic frequencies they emit. This study was designed to experientially test the therapeutic benefits of dolphin-human interaction.
The test group consisted of seven children, ages 5-12 years, with diagnoses ranging from cerebral palsy to traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries and chronic pain. Each patient completed two four-hour treatment sessions that involved both in-water CranioSacral Therapy and dockside sessions. The positive response was significant and included reduction in pain, increased ease in breathing, greater general relaxation, reduction in hypertonicity, enhanced strength and flexibility, and more restful sleep.
Integrative Intentions is continuing a bioaquatic Intensive program in Freeport, Grand Bahamas Island. Current programs focus on working with participants in Dolphin-Assisted Therapy intensive programs and training therapists both in the dynamics of water-based healing and in dolphin-assisted therapy. The Dolphin-Assisted Therapy intensive programs are 4-day intensive programs featuring select teams of therapists working together to address the specific health concerns of each individual.
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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