How to Price a Shamanism Practitioner

Shamanism is an ancient though sometimes controversial religion that purports to heal physical ailments like tumors, skin conditions and even asthma using the spirit world and herbal remedies. As it is an unregulated form of medical care, pinning down someone qualified and affordable can be challenging--but it can be done.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access

Understand the Healing Powers of Shamanism

1. Perform research on the religion of shamanism to better understand the options available. The Joseph Campbell Foundation provides excellent information on the religion (see Resources below).
2. Understand that shamanism practitioners have their own limits. There are some who will decide a patient is not treatable.
3. Set financial limits. Unlike regular health care, alternative medicine typically is not covered by insurance, so it is important to only commit to treatments you can financially handle.

Find a Shamanism Practitioner

4. Visit the Healing Arts Network (see Resources below). Online resources like these give you history and information on practicing shamans.
5. Click on 'Find Practitioners' and select 'Shamanism' from the homepage of the Healing Arts Network Web site. This will provide you with a list specific to each state and what types of shamanism a particular practitioner performs.
6. Make a list of the practitioners who are near your area. Include their contact information for future reference.
7. Contact your local health food store, meditation center or New Age store for additional recommendations.

Compare Prices

8. Get in touch with the practitioners you find acceptable. Ask them for their fees.
9. Remember that some shamans do not charge a fee for their services because it is against their principles. However, this is not the norm, so expect a fee when pricing.
10. Eliminate practitioners who you can't afford.
11. Choose from your remaining options. Request references from previous patients if you're undecided. Make your choice based on their level of satisfaction.

Tips & Warnings

• Check into your practitioner's qualifications if you are choosing your shaman based on training as well as price. It is important to know where your practitioner studied to better understand his spiritual beliefs, capabilities and healing practices.
• The price for a shamanic retreat can be quite high, especially if the group is headed to an exotic or luxurious destination.
• Seek help from an emergency room if you experience intense dizziness or acute pain.
• Pay attention to your instincts. True shamanism practitioners are not as tied to money as con artists and frauds. If someone is trying to charge an outrageous price for his or her service, move on.
• Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners are licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider and keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.