How do I handle emotional releases during and after a Reiki treatment?
October 16, 2026
Should you fast before receiving a Reiki treatment?
October 18, 2026
When they need something you are not qualified to give. If a client needs to talk, refer them to a counsellor; unless you are one, do not give advice or tell people about themselves. If they have a medical condition, they should see a doctor. If they seem very depressed, give them a crisis line. You are a Reiki practitioner, and that is a great thing; you do not have to look after all of it.
Great question. You should refer on a client who needs to talk to somebody, because unless you actually are one, you are not a qualified counsellor, and you should not be handing out advice or telling clients about themselves when you do not know what you are doing. That is probably the biggest one.
If someone has a medical condition, they really should be seeing a doctor, and you can refer them on. If you feel a person might be very depressed and needs someone to talk to about that specifically, you can refer them to Lifeline.
There are lots of places you can refer people on to, and you really do not have to look after all of it, because you do not. You are a Reiki practitioner, and that is a great thing.
When this happens. Usually at the end of a treatment, when a relaxed client starts to talk, or in the intake conversation when they mention a symptom, a medication, or something that frightens you a little.
What is actually going on. A treatment can encourage a person to feel open. The kindest response is to receive it and pass it to someone trained to hold it, not to try to hold it yourself.
What to do. Keep a short list ready before you need it: a GP you trust, a counsellor or two, the local crisis line, a physiotherapist. Say, “You might like to talk to a professional about that” and offer suggestions how to connect with the relevant service.
When to get help. If a client mentions harming themselves, do not wait for the session to end: stay with them, give them the crisis line number, and if you believe they are in immediate danger, call emergency services. In Australia, Lifeline is 13 11 14.
You might also ask: How do I handle emotional releases during and after a Reiki treatment? · Should a Reiki practitioner have insurance? · Can you practise the system of Reiki in hospitals?
Boundaries, referrals and what a practitioner is and isn’t for are part of Shinpiden+.
More questions answered: Reiki Questions Answered.
