Energy Therapy
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What are energy therapies?
Energy therapies are gentle touch therapies in which providers use their hands to support healing and wellness by balancing your child’s energy system. Examples of energy therapies are Reiki, Healing Touch, Therapeutic Touch and Brennan Healing Science. These techniques share the idea that there is energy that we cannot see in and around our bodies. This energy can be shifted and balanced to create harmony, promote relaxation and aide in healing
How does energy therapy work?
We don’t fully understand how energy therapy works. Practitioners believe that stress, pain and illness can alter the body’s flow of energy, causing an imbalance in one or more areas of the system. Too much or too little energy in an area of the body can interrupt the flow of energy resulting in physical symptoms. Energy therapy providers hope to restore your child’s healthy energy flow by opening, connecting, and balancing their energy system.
How is energy therapy performed?
Energy therapy will be performed in a gentle and safe manner. An energy therapy practitioner will place their hands on, or several inches above, your child’s body in series of locations to shift the balance and energy flow.
What will energy therapy feel like?
Most children experience little to no pain. Your child may feel warmth, cold, tingling, or they may see colors. Most children describe getting energy therapy as pleasant.
Who will perform my child’s energy therapy treatment?
Your child’s treatment will be done by a provider who has completed training in energy therapy, as well as training in pediatrics.
How many treatment sessions are needed?
The number of treatments depends on symptoms and energy flow.
How long will the treatment last?
The session will last anywhere from 15-60 minutes, based on you or your child’s needs.
Is energy therapy safe?
Energy therapy is safe when performed by properly trained providers. Serious side effects are very rare. The energy therapy at CHOP is closely managed to ensure your child’s safety, and our energy therapists are skilled in caring for children.
Does energy therapy have side effects?
Most children feel relaxed and calm after a session. There can be overwhelming feelings afterward as energy is released. If that happens, please speak with your or your child’s healthcare provider for advice on how to handle these feelings.
Does energy therapy replace traditional medicine?
No. Energy therapy is not a substitute for medical diagnosis and treatment. Our staff can advise on ways to include energy therapy in your child’s treatment plan. Please talk to you medical provider about whether energy therapy should be considered for your child.
Additional resources
- Integrative Medicine - Primary Care Perspectives Podcast