When you are looking for a surgeon, you can easily find out the medical school he or she attended and what hospitals the doctor is affiliated with. When it comes to finding a holistic practitioner, it can be a little harder to find someone with specialized knowledge. Here are a few questions to ask to make sure you are working with a true professional.

1. Can I use energy medicine instead of seeing a medical doctor or psychotherapist?

While mind/body techniques and energy healing both offer powerful benefits for a person’s well-being, they are not intended to replace traditional healthcare and treatment protocols. Rather, these methods are complementary modalities that enhance and support medical treatment. If a client has a physical injury or medical condition, then mind/body techniques and energy healing should be used in conjunction with traditional medicine.

A professionally trained healer will advise you to continue with the medical treatment for your physical injury or medical condition. If a healer suggests using his or her treatment instead of traditional medicine or psychotherapy, the best option would be to find another healer. However, many clients turn to energy medicine simply to create optimal health. In that situation, there is no need to work with a medical doctor or a psychotherapist.

2. Where did you receive your training?

Unlike medical doctors, there are no statewide exams required for many complementary healthcare options. There are, however, a number of nationally recognized programs so it’s best to only work with a practitioner with proven credentials. Ask where he or she was trained and if there are any links to information about the program. Then, do a little research online to see if the training is legitimate.

3. Can you offer any guarantees?

If the answer to this is yes, hang up and keep looking for another person to work with you on your healing journey. The human body is complex; therefore, no promises can be made. That’s true in both traditional medicine and in mind/body and energy healing techniques.

4. What is your pricing structure?

Any professional can quote you a specific charge for a specific service. Just as you wouldn’t trust a dentist who gives you a vague response to the cost for an office visit, you shouldn’t trust a holistic practitioner who doesn’t tell you the fees in advance.

As you ask these and any other questions, listen to the tone of voice. A true professional will welcome your inquiries and understand that you are seeking someone who has undergone advanced training. It’s definitely not a good sign if the person seems defensive or agitated at your questions. After all, it’s your body. You should be able to trust the person you will be working with and honest communication is one of the building blocks necessary for a trusting relationship.