Finding the Right Reiki Master: How to Choose a Practitioner and Understand the Healing Benefits
- Dr. Guadalupe Vanderhorst Rodriguez
- Oct 1
- 5 min read
By Dr. Guadalupe Vanderhorst Rodriguez, D.Ac, L.A.c, Reiki Master
Reiki is a gentle, holistic healing practice that’s been growing in popularity around the world. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, support your emotional well-being, or explore energy healing for the first time, Reiki can offer a peaceful path toward healing and balance. But like any health or wellness practice, working with the right practitioner makes all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll help you understand the many benefits of Reiki, how to find a qualified Reiki Master, and what to expect from your sessions. At the end, you’ll find resources to continue your journey into the healing world of Reiki.
What is Reiki?
Reiki (pronounced RAY-key) is a Japanese healing technique developed in the early 20th century by Mikao Usui.
The word “Reiki” comes from two Japanese words:
Rei – universal, spiritual wisdom
Ki – life force energy
Together, Reiki means “spiritually guided life force energy.” Practitioners use their hands to channel energy into the body to support healing, reduce stress, and balance the body’s energy systems.
Reiki is non-invasive, gentle, and does not require any physical manipulation. It’s used alongside traditional medicine or other therapies as a complementary healing method.
The Benefits of Working with a Reiki Practitioner
While Reiki can be practiced on yourself, many people find deeper healing when receiving Reiki from a trained practitioner.
Here are some of the most common benefits:
1. Stress Reduction & Deep Relaxation
Reiki sessions are incredibly calming. Most people report feeling deeply relaxed during and after a session. This relaxation response helps lower stress hormones, calm the mind, and allow the body to heal naturally.
2. Emotional Healing & Balance
Reiki works not just on the physical body but also on emotional and energetic levels. It can help release blocked emotions, support grief, ease anxiety, and foster emotional clarity.
3. Pain Management
While Reiki is not a replacement for medical care, many people report a reduction in physical pain or discomfort after sessions. It may help relieve tension, muscle pain, or chronic discomfort by improving energetic flow.
4. Enhanced Intuition & Inner Clarity
Reiki often helps people feel more connected to their inner voice and spiritual path. It can awaken or strengthen your intuition, helping you gain clarity on life decisions.
5. Energy Balancing
Reiki clears blocked energy and balances the flow of “Ki” or life force energy in your body. This can help restore harmony in your chakras and overall energy system.
How to Choose the Right Reiki Master
Just like choosing a therapist or doctor, finding the right Reiki practitioner is a personal journey.
Here’s how to make sure your practitioner is a good match:
1. Check Their Credentials and Training
A Reiki practitioner should have received training from a certified teacher.
Reiki training is typically divided into levels:
Reiki I – Introduction and self-healing
Reiki II – Distance healing and practitioner-level
Reiki Master/Teacher – Full attunement and ability to teach
Ask your practitioner where they trained, who their teacher was, and what level they’ve achieved.
Bonus Tip: Some Reiki Masters list their lineage, tracing their training back to the original founder, Mikao Usui. This shows a commitment to the integrity of the practice.
2. Read Testimonials and Reviews
What do other clients say about working with this practitioner? Look for consistent feedback about their professionalism, energy, environment, and the effects of their sessions.
3. Have a Conversation First
Reach out before you book. Many Reiki practitioners offer a free consultation.
Ask:
What is your approach to Reiki?
How do you structure your sessions?
Do you include other healing techniques (like crystals, sound healing, or breathwork)?
Getting to know them beforehand can help you feel more comfortable and connected.
4. Trust Your Intuition
Even if someone has excellent training, they might not be the right healer for you. Trust your gut. You should feel safe, calm, and respected in their presence.
What to Expect During a Reiki Session
If you’ve never had Reiki before, here’s what usually happens during a session:
You’ll relax fully clothed on a massage table or seated comfortably.
The practitioner will use gentle hand placements on or above your body.
You may feel warmth, tingling, deep peace, or simply rest.
A session may last 30 to 60 minutes.
Afterward, you may feel deeply relaxed, emotionally lighter, or more energized.
Drinking water and resting after your session is encouraged.
Final Thoughts: Reiki is a Journey
Reiki is a beautiful and gentle healing path that meets you exactly where you are. Whether you’re healing from trauma, navigating a health condition, or simply seeking a deeper connection with yourself, a compassionate Reiki Master can be a powerful guide.
Don’t rush the process of choosing someone. Take your time, do your research, and find a practitioner who resonates with your energy. The right Reiki Master will hold space for your transformation and help you unlock the healing power already within you.
Reiki Resources to Explore
Here are some helpful websites and books to deepen your knowledge and find Reiki practitioners:
Online Directories & Resources
International Center for Reiki Training (ICRT)
Reiki Membership Association
The Reiki Alliance
Northern New York Reiki Association – Regional support and learning
Books to Learn More
The Reiki Manual by Penelope Quest & Kathy Roberts
The Spirit of Reiki by William Lee Rand, Walter Lübeck & Frank Arjava Petter
Reiki for Life by Penelope Quest
Essential Reiki by Diane Stein
Podcasts & YouTube Channels
"The Importance of a Reiki Master Podcast by Dr. Guadalupe Vanderhorst Rodriguez, D.Ac, L.Ac, Reiki Master
“The Reiki Lifestyle Podcast” by Colleen Benelli
“Energy Healing Podcast” – Covers Reiki, Chakras, and more
YouTube Channels: "Reiki Healing Meditation", "Reiki with Lisa", "Divine White Light"
Ready to Try Reiki?
If you're located in Northern New York, consider visiting Kicotan Acupuncture, where Reiki is integrated with traditional healing wisdom. You can schedule a Reiki session, join a class, or learn how to become a practitioner yourself.
About the Author
Dr. Guadalupe Vanderhorst Rodriguez, D.Ac., is a Licensed Acupuncturist and Reiki Master with over 16 years of experience in holistic healing. She received her Reiki Master certification through the International Center for Reiki Training (ICRT), where she studied under the guidance of Carlos and Ana Gonzalez, esteemed Reiki Teachers known for their compassionate and heart-centered approach.
Dr. Rodriguez has dedicated her life to helping others heal—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Through her integrative practice, she blends the ancient wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine with the energy-balancing principles of Usui Reiki, offering deeply restorative sessions to clients from all walks of life.
In addition to providing individual Reiki treatments, Dr. Rodriguez is passionate about teaching Reiki to others. She has trained dozens of students, empowering them to use Reiki as a tool for self-care, professional practice, and spiritual growth.
Her holistic clinic, Kicotan Acupuncture, is based in Northern New York and serves as a sanctuary for wellness, where modern science meets ancestral healing wisdom. Whether you are new to Reiki or looking to deepen your practice, Dr. Rodriguez offers a compassionate presence and years of experience to support your journey.
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