Thirty Years of Reiki in NEPA

Reflecting on 30 years of Reiki healing in Northeast Pennsylvania, Debbie shares her journey as an intuitive energy worker, the evolution of her practice, and the lives touched through decades of service. A heartfelt look at the power of Reiki, community, and spiritual growth.

ENERGY & HEALINGDIVINATION & INTUITION

Ambrea Rose

2/5/20253 min read

pink roses in close up photography
pink roses in close up photography

Thirty Years of Reiki in NEPA: A Journey of Healing and Growth

When I first began practicing Reiki in Northeast Pennsylvania over thirty years ago, very few people had even heard of it. Reiki was something whispered about in holistic circles, a quiet healing practice passed from teacher to student in intimate settings. At that time, energy healing was not as widely accepted as it is today. Many were skeptical, some were curious, and a few were ready to step onto the path.

Now, three decades later, I look around and feel nothing but awe. The landscape of healing in NEPA has transformed. Reiki has found its way into homes, wellness centers, and even some medical settings. I have had the honor of training many students, some of whom have gone on to open their own practices, sharing the gift of Reiki with even more people. To witness this growth—this collective embrace of energy healing—is nothing short of incredible.

What is Reiki?

For those unfamiliar, Reiki is a gentle yet powerful healing practice that works with universal life force energy. The word "Reiki" (pronounced ray-key) comes from Japanese:

  • "Rei" meaning universal or divine wisdom

  • "Ki" meaning life force energy

Everything in this world carries energy—our bodies, our emotions, our thoughts. Reiki is the practice of channeling this energy through the hands to promote healing, balance, and well-being. It is non-invasive, deeply relaxing, and supports the body’s natural ability to heal itself.

A Reiki session typically involves light touch (or no touch, depending on preference), where the practitioner channels energy into the client, helping to clear blockages, reduce stress, and bring harmony to the body, mind, and spirit. The effects can be profound, offering anything from deep relaxation to emotional release and physical healing.

How Do You Learn Reiki?

One of the most beautiful aspects of Reiki is that anyone can learn it. You do not have to be a special type of person or have any prior experience in healing work. Reiki is passed from teacher to student through a sacred process called attunement or initiation.

There are three traditional levels of Reiki training:

  1. Reiki Level I (Shoden) – The beginning level where you learn the foundations of Reiki, how to channel energy, and practice self-healing. After your attunement, you can use Reiki on yourself and others.

  2. Reiki Level II (Okuden) – This level deepens your practice, introducing sacred symbols that enhance energy flow and allow you to send Reiki across time and space (distance healing).

  3. Reiki Level III / Master Level (Shinpiden) – The highest level of Reiki, where students learn to attune others, deepen their spiritual practice, and truly integrate Reiki as a way of life.

Receiving an attunement is a powerful experience. It’s as if an inner light is switched on, allowing energy to flow in a new way. It is not just about learning a technique—it is a transformation, a shift in awareness, and an opening to something greater.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of attuning many students in NEPA. Some have gone on to become practitioners, teachers, or simply integrate Reiki into their daily lives. Each student’s journey is unique, but what remains constant is the deep and loving energy of Reiki itself.

Reiki in Northeast Pennsylvania: Then & Now

I remember the early days of practicing Reiki in Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and surrounding areas. Back then, energy healing was still unfamiliar to most people. When I spoke about Reiki, I was often met with puzzled looks. It took time, patience, and a lot of passion to share this work with the community.

Fast forward to today, and Reiki is thriving in NEPA. More people are opening their hearts to holistic healing. The number of Reiki practitioners has grown, and many of my own students have gone on to offer healing sessions in their own ways—some focusing on animals, others integrating Reiki into massage therapy, yoga, or counseling.

It is incredible to see so many people stepping into the role of healer, supporting their communities, and expanding the reach of Reiki. Healing work is no longer hidden or misunderstood—it is being embraced.

How to Experience Reiki for Yourself

Whether you are looking for personal healing or feel called to learn Reiki for yourself, there are many ways to experience its benefits:

  • Book a Reiki Session – If you are curious about Reiki, I invite you to schedule a session. Whether you choose a remote session, an in-home visit, or an in-person appointment in Dupont, Reiki can bring deep relaxation, healing, and balance.

  • Learn Reiki – If you feel drawn to this healing work, I offer Reiki training and attunements in NEPA. Whether you want to practice for yourself or share Reiki with others, I would love to guide you on this journey.

After 30 years, I am still just as passionate about Reiki as I was when I first began. Seeing the way this practice has grown, witnessing the new generation of practitioners stepping forward—it fills my heart with gratitude. If you feel called to explore Reiki, whether for healing or learning, know that you are stepping into something truly beautiful.

Reiki is for everyone. Healing is for everyone. And I am honored to continue sharing this work with the NEPA community and beyond.