Do You Need a License for Reiki in Maine?

Yes. Maine's massage law does not apply to practitioners of other tissue work, and it names Reiki, polarity, rolfing, Trager, reflexology and Shiatsu. The one condition is that you do not use the titles massage therapist or massage practitioner. You may choose to become licensed if you wish.

This exemption dates from 1993 and has not changed since.

Yes. Maine defines massage therapy as scientific or skillful manipulation of soft tissue for therapeutic or remedial purposes, so sessions without touch and remote sessions fall outside it. Maine's complementary and alternative health care law also gives unlicensed practitioners a safe harbor from health care licensing laws if they follow its rules.

Yes. A massage therapist is someone who provides or offers massage therapy for a fee, monetary or otherwise, so barter counts. The disclosure rules in the complementary health care law apply when you advertise or charge a fee.

Never use the titles massage therapist or massage practitioner unless you are licensed. Under the complementary health care law you also may not perform surgery or puncture the skin, set fractures, use radiation, prescribe or give prescription drugs or devices, recommend stopping prescribed medication, perform chiropractic adjustment, or act or advertise in a way that implies you are a licensed health care professional.

Yes, if you advertise or charge a fee. Before services, give each client a written disclosure with your name, business address and phone number, a statement that you are not a licensed health care professional, the nature of your services, and your degrees, training, experience or credentials. Post a copy prominently where you give sessions.

Before the first session, get a signed written statement from the client confirming they received and understood the disclosure, and keep it for two years. The law does not define complementary health care or name Reiki, so following these steps is how you rely on its protection.

They can. Maine lets towns regulate massage, and you must follow any stricter local ordinance. The Town of Fairfield, for example, requires massage therapists to show a state license yearly and register their business. Ask your city or town whether its massage ordinance reaches bodywork.