Do You Need a License for Reiki in Delaware?

Delaware defines massage and bodywork as structured touch applied to the tissues by applying pressure with manual means, such as friction, gliding, rocking, tapping, kneading or stretching. Reiki touch with no pressure is probably outside that definition. The exemptions cover other licensees, occupations that need no certification acting within their training, and massage students, and Reiki is not named.

History matters here. A 2004 board regulation said Reiki, Polarity Therapy and Therapeutic Touch do not count as massage and bodywork. A 2007 amendment struck that list without giving a reason, and the current regulation does not list Reiki either way.

Yes. The massage law requires touch with pressure, so it does not reach hands-off or distance work. Delaware's medical practice act covers offering to diagnose or treat any disease, pain or condition by any means, methods or devices, so avoid medical claims. It exempts healing by spiritual means by accredited religious practitioners.

Partly. Delaware's definition of a massage and bodywork therapist covers anyone who practices massage and bodywork for a fee, monetary or otherwise. It also covers anyone who uses the listed titles, so using those titles is enough, paid or not.

Without a license you may not use any title or description of services that includes bodywork, massage, massage therapist, massage therapy, massage practitioner, massagist, masseur or masseuse, or otherwise suggest you are qualified to practice massage and bodywork. The word bodywork is restricted on its own. Avoid any claim to diagnose or treat a condition.

Write to the Delaware Board of Massage and Bodywork, describe exactly how you use touch, and ask whether the board treats it as massage and bodywork.