Resources We Trust
After decades of working in Animal Reiki and supporting animals and their caregivers, we’ve come across a handful of people and programs that stand out—because they’re doing the work with integrity, clarity, and heart. Below is a short list of trusted resources we recommend, whether you're looking for intuitive guidance, specialized training, or practical support as a practitioner.
These aren’t affiliate links. We’re sharing them because we believe in them.
Animal Communication & Intuition
Thea Strom – Animal Communicator & Medium
Thea offers something rare: quiet confidence, deep ethics, and a genuine ability to connect across species and across the veil. In addition to tuning in to animals—both living and in spirit—Thea is also a gifted medium who can connect with your human loved ones who’ve passed. Whether you’re grieving, seeking clarity, or simply curious what your animal is trying to say, Thea’s work is intuitive, compassionate, and grounded.
theahealer.com
Dr. Cara Gubbins – Animal Communication Academy
Cara combines science and spirit in her approach to animal communication. Her courses are especially valuable for those who want to learn the skill themselves—offering a down-to-earth framework to access your own intuitive voice.
caragubbins.com/aca
Reiki & Energy Healing (for Humans)
Nicholas Pearson – The Luminous Pearl
Nicholas is widely respected for his deep knowledge of Reiki, both its roots and its real-world application. He’s an author, teacher, and practitioner who brings clarity to topics that often feel confusing or overcomplicated. If you want to strengthen your personal Reiki practice or better understand the history and energy behind it, Nicholas is one of the most trustworthy guides out there.
theluminouspearl.com
Training & Education
BrightHaven – Caregiver Academy
As a founding member of SARA, BrightHaven has been at the heart of our Animal Reiki community from the beginning. Their Caregiver Academy is our top recommendation for those caring for aging, ill, or transitioning animals. With a holistic approach rooted in decades of hands-on experience, their training offers both practical tools and spiritual wisdom to help you navigate this tender time with grace and presence.
brighthaven.org/2025/03/14/the-brighthaven-caregiver-academy
Compassion Consortium – Animal Chaplaincy Training
A groundbreaking program for those called to provide spiritual care for animals and their people. This training explores ethical grief support, interspecies ministry, and advocacy in a deeply respectful way—especially meaningful for those on a service path.
compassionconsortium.org/training
University of Vermont – Companion Animal Doula Certificate
This four-week online course prepares you to accompany animals and their families through end-of-life with grace, dignity, and calm. It’s a solid foundation for anyone wanting to deepen their service during this sacred time.
learn.uvm.edu/program/companion-animal-end-of-life-doula-professional-certificate-online
The Kerulos Center
If you want to understand the deeper psychology of trauma, sanctuary, and healing from the animals’ point of view, Kerulos is the place. Their programs are academically rigorous and soulfully expansive—a rare and needed combination.
kerulos.org
Business Support for Practitioners
Beauty & Bodywork Insurance
Professional liability insurance provides essential protection for animal reiki and animal communication practitioners against potential claims from clients or third parties. Beauty and Bodyworks Insurance (BBI) offers comprehensive coverage starting at just $9.99/month or $96/year for US residents, with $3,000,000 aggregate and $2,000,000 per occurrence limits and monthly payment options available. SARA members receive a $5 discount with a special membership code.
BBI's occurrence-based coverage includes fast online enrollment, seamless claim support from top-rated carriers, customizable policies with optional add-ons, unlimited additional insureds, and 24/7 policy access through your user dashboard. Their friendly, non-commissioned agents are available to answer questions and help tailor coverage specifically for your practice needs. For personalized assistance, contact their dedicated representative
Aaron Zhang at (385) 387-1016, who can answer all your questions about coverage options and enrollment.
Enrollment link here
Coverage Details for Reiki Liability Coverage Details