The way holistic practitioners work has changed.
Today, many healers offer their services across borders. As remote sessions become more common, the question naturally arises:
Can I be covered by a U.S-based insurance program like EMPA if I live or practice in another country?
We’ve received this question from practitioners all over the world—from Australia to Canada to the UK. Some are just starting out and want to get things right from the beginning. Others are already working with international clients and are now asking if their coverage actually applies.
In this article, we’ll clarify whether EMPA covers international or travel-based practice, explain why our policy is U.S.-specific, and offer guidance on what to do if you’re working across borders.
Whether you’re seeing clients online, teaching overseas, or practicing while abroad, you’ll learn what’s covered and what steps to take to protect your work.
Why EMPA’s Coverage Isn’t Available Internationally for Non-USA Residents
EMPA’s insurance policy is specifically designed for practitioners who live and work in the United States.
Insurance policies must conform to the regulations, laws and legal systems of the countries they are written in.
Because EMPA’s policy is written under U.S. law, they can’t extend protection to practitioners or claims outside that system.
In short, if you don’t reside in the U.S., EMPA’s coverage cannot apply.
This ensures every policy we issue is legally sound and fully enforceable to provide you with the best protection possible.
Can You Get Coverage if You Visit the U.S. for a Retreat or Workshop as an International Practitioner?
Some international practitioners visit the U.S. to offer sessions, host retreats, or participate in events—and want to know if EMPA can cover them while they’re here.
The answer is no (though we wish we could!). Even if you’re temporarily working in the U.S., EMPA cannot provide coverage unless you legally reside here. Our policy is only available to U.S.-based practitioners.
If you're planning to offer services while visiting the U.S., here’s what to consider:
- Check with your local insurer: Some providers in your home country may offer international extensions or short-term coverage abroad.
- Confirm jurisdictional coverage: Ask how your policy would handle a claim or suit made while you were practicing in the U.S.
- Speak with the event host: If you’re attending a retreat or workshop, the organizer may offer temporary coverage or allow you to be added to their policy.
Practicing internationally—even for a short time—requires more than just good intentions. Make sure your insurance is built for where you’ll be working.
What If You’re a U.S. Practitioner Traveling Abroad to Work?
If you’re a U.S.-based practitioner and planning to travel internationally—whether for a retreat, client sessions, or teaching—EMPA’s coverage can still apply, with an important condition:
Your professional liability coverage follows you anywhere in the world, provided the suit is brought in the United States.
This protection is designed for short-term business travel. If you’re living or practicing abroad long-term, or setting up a permanent practice overseas, your EMPA policy would not provide coverage.
It’s also important to note that general liability coverage does not extend outside the United States. If you’re renting a space, hosting an event, or working in environments where someone could be physically injured, or damage to property could occur, the general liability coverage would not apply while abroad.
Before offering services overseas, consider:
- Where you’ll be working and for how long
- Whether you need event-specific or venue-related protection abroad
- Having clear client documentation that reflects your scope and jurisdiction
Working internationally can be a powerful way to expand your practice—but it’s worth making sure your coverage travels with you in the ways that matter most.
💡Events are exciting—but they come with added responsibility. Get the clarity you need in Insurance Coverage for Energy Healers: Events, Workshops, and Speaking Engagements.
What Else to Consider If You’re Practicing Energy Healing Outside the U.S.
If you live outside the United States and need long-term professional liability insurance, the next best step is to find a provider in your country who:
- Understands the kind of work you do
- Offers coverage where you live and practice
- Can defend claims in your local legal system
- Provides cross-border protection if you work internationally or in multiple countries
If you're unsure, ask direct questions. A trustworthy insurer will give you clear answers (even if that means pointing you somewhere else).
If you've been practicing without coverage, or with a policy that doesn’t actually apply to your situation—that’s okay, it’s not too late to find a fit! Many practitioners discover this only when they take the time to ask the right questions, like you’re doing now.
If you're based outside the U.S., or working internationally, we may not be the right fit. But we’re always glad to help point you in the right direction.
Good coverage doesn’t just protect your work. It honors it!
Ann Darmstetter
Ann is proud to be part of an organization that leads the way in promoting safe practice for energy healers and holistic professionals. She believes in the power of alternative health and is passionate about ensuring practitioners have the resources and protection they need to thrive. Being part of EMPA allows her to contribute to a mission that goes beyond insurance—it’s about empowering practitioners to build safe, ethical, and well-run practices that serve their communities with integrity. She also provides direct support to members, answering questions about policies, coverage details, and how EMPA can best protect their practice. Her role is all about making the insurance process smooth, clear, and hassle-free, so members can focus on their work with confidence.