Choosing a Reiki Teacher

• Beginning or advancing in the study and practice of Reiki is an exciting and important decision. The Vermont Reiki Association (VRA) is a resource to find teachers and information to help guide you. The VRA will be there as a network of support, community and opportunity as you continue on. 
• First, you will need to find a teacher. There is a listing on the VRA web page of qualified Reiki teachers that uphold our values and standards of practice. Each teacher is a little different from the other. Talk with some of them and get a feel for their personality, beliefs, and teaching style to see if you are compatible with one another. The most important thing is to feel confident and comfortable with your decision.
• Know what it is that motivates you to search out a Reiki Teacher. Express those intentions to the potential teacher so they will know what it is you are looking for from this experience. 
• Reiki is a practice that takes dedication and commitment.The teachings, experiences and insights unfold naturally and at a pace that is right for the individual. The traditional time between Level I and Level II is a minimum of 3 months, although you may find teachers who offer this training at shorter intervals. Some level III teacher programs are scheduled to take 6 months to a year to complete, while others may be much quicker. It is up to you to choose the pace that is best for you. You may also decide to simply enjoy the practice and tools offered at level I. 
• Having access to the appropriate level materials and continued support from your teacher after the initial training is an important consideration when choosing a course/teacher. Some Reiki teachers do not provide you with materials and it may be hard for you to remember everything you have learned. 
• Traditional Usui Reiki Ryoho teachers offer in person initiations (attunements) at each level of training. The initiation (attunement) connects the student to their own spiritual nature/energy(Reiki). This initial experience is important and is dependent upon the truthful, compassionate state of mind of the teacher. Continued practice of the whole system of Reiki including precepts, meditations, hands on healing, symbols/mantras and reiju will further deepen your understanding and experience. 

There are many lineages of Reiki in the world, each with its own connection to Mikao Usui the founder of the system of Reiki. One is not better than another, only different. It is important for you to find the path that will support you in discovering your own true nature. From this realization you can help others. 

Questions to ask when looking for a Reiki teacher or practitioner

• What training have you had? Do you have a certification?
• How long have you been practicing Reiki?
• Do you belong to a Reiki Association? 
• How do you incorporate Reiki into your own life? Do you have a personal practice?
• How long was your training?
• Who are your teachers?
• What lineage do you teach/practice?
• Were you attuned in person by your Reiki teacher? 
• How often do you offer classes?
• Will you provide books and course materials?
• How many hours in-person study does the course entail?
• Will there be experiential/hands on practice throughout the course?
• Do you provide support to students after the course?
• How much does the course cost?
• What qualifications are required to take Reiki Training? The answer to this is, there are none.
• Will I get a certificate upon completion of the course?
• May I take notes and/or tape record the class?
• Is there a Reiki support group in my area or can you help me establish one? The VRA has regional coordinators to support you!
• Will you support me in being a successful Reiki practitioner or teacher? The VRA will help you to succeed too!
• What is your attitude towards and relationship with other Reiki practitioners and teachers?​

​