CHOOSING YOUR REIKI TEACHER 
by Barbara McKell RT CRA, KRM
 
It can be rather daunting when you decide to take Reiki Training. There is so much information out there on the internet and it soon becomes overwhelming if you want to be sure you are getting the proper training from a qualified teacher.
You want to know that you will not have to do any of your training over again to become a professional Reiki Practitioner.
Reiki is one of the fastest growing and most effective methods of natural healing that is being taught today. It is very easy to learn, but it still needs to be taught with integrity, knowledge and experience, so that students have every opportunity to become successful and confident Reiki Practitioners. There are many people teaching Reiki classes now. Some are highly qualified and may be just the right teacher for you. The relationship you develop with your Reiki teacher is an important one and can be helpful as you develop your Reiki practice. Be sure to find out if they offer ongoing support or a practice group after you have completed your training.
As well as completing all their Reiki training with a certified teacher, Registered Teachers with the Canadian Reiki Association have completed a practicum, are required to adhere to teaching standards and a code of ethics. As professionals they are accountable to the CRA and must maintain the standards in order to be a Registered Teacher in good standing with the CRA.  A CRA registered Teacher (RT CRA) can offer their students CEU's towards their CRA practicum.It is advisable to find a CRA registered teacher if you wish to become a member and receive professional designation. The CRA is the only recognized governing body for Reiki professionals in Canada. Finding a teacher through the CRA website is a good place to start if you are looking for a teacher in any province in Canada. www.reiki.ca
The International Center for Reiki Training founded by William Lee Rand has set high standards in the United states. They train quailified and knowledgable teachers who are kept up to date on all the lastest information. www.reiki.org
 
It is a good idea to ask your prospective teacher some questions before you decide to sign up for a class. They should be open and willing to answer all your questions and concerns.
Ask the Reiki Master if they personally use Reiki and how they incorporate it into their daily lives.  It is a good idea to find out how long have they have been working with Reiki. Ask about the training they have taken and how long they have been teaching. Do they teach all Levels of Usui Reiki?  An internet course is not going to give them the experience and knowledge to teach a class, so beware of the internet trained practitioner or teacher. This type of training does not offer any mentorship or hands on practice time with a trained teacher. Find out if they have regular classes and how often they teach. Taking your training with other students is the best way to learn Reiki. The comraderie and experience of working with other students adds to your understanding and confidence. Havign pracice time and learning with a group adds a special value to your training.It often creates long term friendships with like minded people who can acknowledge and support you on your Reiki path.
 
Usui Reiki originated in Japan. It is the foundation of the Reiki that is being accepted and used all over the world today. It is a good place for the new practitioner to start and if your interest grows you can pursue the more esoteric types of Reiki after you have a firm footing in the Usui system of Reiki.  Ask the prospective teacher about their lineage and if this training will initiate you into, or progress you within the Usui lineage? If not, then which lineage is it a part of?
Get  a course outline so you know what they will be covering in their classes? How many hours of class time is included? How much time is instructional, and how much is hands on practice?
Find out what the specific things you will be qualified to do after taking the training? How much is the course fee and what is included? Ask if  there a Reiki support group in your area or can they help you find one?
Be sure that the Reiki Teacher will openly support you in being a successful Reiki practitioner or teacher. A Reiki Master who withholds information or support  could be afraid you might compete with them then they will not give you the support you need.
A Reiki master who is truly walking their talk will understand that competition and fear based controlling behaviours are not part of being a congruent professional teacher.
Be aware of Reiki Teachers who insist that you must take all your training from them or insist you take an overwhelming multitude of levels of training and are not willing to acknowlege any previous training you have taken. 
Be sure that they have a positive respectful attitude toward other Reiki Practitioners and Teachers, regardless of lineage or affiliation.
Be aware of how you feel about the answers you receive an how you are being treated. Are they responding in a respectful manner that is supportive and empowering?
Above all… Listen to your heart and you will be guided to the right teacher.