Biographical similarities between spiritual healers and their clients in Germany - a qualitative study.
Anthropology & medicine January 1, 2015 Barbara Mh Stöckigt, Florian Besch, Florian Jeserich et al.
Spiritual healers in Germany are a diverse and growing group, but little is known about them. Based on interviews with 15 healers and 16 clients, the study identifies two paths to becoming a healer: the wounded healer type, who undergoes a crisis that prompts transformation, and the healer by interest type, who develops through curiosity and spiritual focus without crisis. Healing talent may be inborn, inherited, or developed through life experiences. Both healers and clients share biographical experiences of crisis, illness, and the importance of spirituality. A few individuals reported near-death experiences as an extreme crisis. Healing is grounded in a connection to transcendent reality, fostering an open, loving, and empathetic attitude.