How to choose a reiki practitioner: seven questions worth asking

Reiki is a Japanese practice in which a practitioner rests their hands lightly on or just above your body while you lie fully clothed. There is no licence for reiki in the United States. Anyone can call themselves a practitioner, so it is worth spending ten minutes choosing.

These are the questions we would ask before booking.

1. What level are you trained to?

Most training runs in three stages. Level 1 is for self-practice and friends. Level 2 adds distance reiki and is usually where people start seeing clients. Reiki Master (sometimes called Level 3, or Master Teacher) can teach others. A practitioner should be able to tell you who trained them and when, without hesitation.

2. Which style do you practise?

Usui reiki is the most common. You will also see Holy Fire, Jikiden, Karuna and others. None is "better"; the answer simply tells you how they learned and how a session might feel.

3. What happens in a session with you?

Ask how long it lasts, whether you lie on a table, whether they use touch or work just above the body, and whether they combine reiki with sound, crystals or massage. Good practitioners describe this plainly.

4. How do you handle touch and consent?

You should be asked before any touch, and told you can change your mind at any point. Hands should stay on neutral areas such as the head, shoulders, arms, knees and feet. If anything feels unclear, ask for hands-off work.

5. Do you offer distance sessions?

Many practitioners offer reiki remotely over a video call or at an agreed time. If that interests you, ask how they run it and what you do during the session.

6. What does it cost, and is there a package?

Prices vary widely by city and experience. Be wary of large upfront packages before your first session, or of anyone who says you need many sessions to "clear" something.

7. How do you work alongside medical care?

The right answer is some version of: "Reiki is complementary. Keep seeing your doctor." Walk away from anyone who suggests stopping medication or treatment.

Signs you’ve found a good fit

• They answer questions without getting defensive.
• They are clear about price and length before you arrive.
• They ask about anything you would like them to know, and check in during the session.
• You leave feeling looked after, not sold to.

Reiki is a relaxation and wellbeing practice, not a substitute for medical or mental-health care.