The Reason You're Not Getting Great Testimonials (And How to Fix It!)

Remember that moment when a client's eyes lit up after experiencing a powerful energetic shift? Or that heartfelt "thank you" email that arrived unexpectedly, describing how your work together created ripples of positive change in their life?

Those moments affirm why we do this sacred work. And yet, when it comes to capturing these experiences as testimonials for our practice, something often gets lost in translation.

I see you nodding. As energy practitioners, we feel more comfortable holding space than asking for praise. We'd rather focus on a client's journey than request they document it for our websites. I've been there too, watching beautiful transformations unfold, yet struggling to gather testimonials that truly reflect the depth of what happened in our sessions.

The good news? This isn't about your work. Your energy is powerful. The disconnect usually comes down to a few simple, fixable patterns in how we approach feedback. Let's explore them together, with grace and practical solutions.

You're Asking Too Broadly (or Perhaps Not at All)

Many of us simply ask, "Would you be willing to write a testimonial?" But that's like handing someone a blank canvas without brushes or paint. Even our most appreciative clients freeze, not because they don't want to help, but because they don't know where to begin.

Instead, try offering gentle guidance with questions that invite reflection:

• "What first brought you to explore energy healing?"
• "What shifts did you notice in your energy, mood, or discomfort levels today?"
• "Was there a particular moment or insight that felt meaningful to you?"
• "How has working with energy medicine been different than you expected?"

These questions help clients tell their unique story, which resonates far more deeply than generic praise ever could.

Heart-Centered Tip: Ask for feedback within a few days of a meaningful session while the experience is still vibrant in their awareness.

You Haven't Created a Comfortable System

Without a process, gathering testimonials becomes an afterthought; something we intend to do but rarely complete. As practitioners, we can bring the same intentionality to feedback that we bring to our healing work.

Consider these aligned approaches:

• Include a brief "reflection form" in your session follow-up emails
• Create a well-designed document with guiding questions and a permission statement
• Build a gentle check-in after milestone sessions (third or fifth session) specifically for feedback
• Mention in your welcome materials that you'll be inviting their reflections later, setting a comfortable expectation

If you work with clients in person, a simple handwritten note with a reflection sheet can feel personal and meaningful too, honoring their experience while inviting them to share it.

You're Not Guiding Clients About Safe Language

This is where our responsibility as ethical practitioners comes in. Many clients, in their enthusiasm, might use language like "You healed my anxiety" or "Your treatment cured my insomnia." While deeply touching, these statements could potentially create regulatory issues.

With loving clarity, we can guide clients toward safer expressions:

• Explain they can share how they felt, what they noticed, or what shifted for them
• Review testimonials before sharing them publicly
• Offer thoughtful editing for clarity or scope (with their permission)
• Always obtain written consent before sharing their words

Remember, even testimonials you didn't solicit become your responsibility once published. This is why proper liability insurance through organizations like EMPA is so essential—it protects the sacred work we do.

You're Waiting for the "Perfect" Story

Perhaps you're holding out for dramatic transformations before requesting feedback. But healing work often reveals itself in subtle, nuanced ways that are just as powerful:

• A client who simply sleeps better after years of restlessness
• Someone who notices they're responding differently to triggers
• A person who feels "inexplicably lighter" but can't pinpoint why

These quiet victories deserve celebration too. In fact, they often speak more authentically to new clients who are just beginning their healing journey.

What’s Next? The Path Forward

Building a collection of heartfelt testimonials happens one connection at a time. Start where you are:

1. Choose one question that feels aligned with your practice
2. Create a simple way to ask it
3. Invite feedback from at least one client this week
4. Express genuine gratitude for whatever they share

Your clients have already received your gift of presence and healing. Most are truly happy to help others find their way to your door—they just need a little guidance on how.

We're all part of the same healing community. The more we can authentically share the power of energy medicine through our clients' voices, the more people will discover this path.

As you nurture your practice with authentic testimonials, remember that EMPA offers specialized liability insurance for energy practitioners, along with resources, community, and guidance to support your professional journey. Because your work matters, and deserves protection.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not provide legal or medical advice. The examples are general, and coverage may vary by policy. Always refer to your insurance provider or policy language for specific details, as the policy terms take precedence. For legal concerns related to your practice, consult an attorney.