Begin by contacting the practitioners on your list and gathering information. Ask what training or other qualifications the Begin by contacting the practitioners on your list and gathering information. Ask what training or other qualifications the practitioner has. Ask about their education, additional training, licenses, and certifications. See if the practitioner's qualifications meet the standards for training and licensing for that profession in your area.  Ask if it's possible to have a brief consultation in person or by phone with the practitioner. This will give you a chance to speak with them directly and determine if they're the right therapist for you.  If you have a specific ailment or area of interest you want to focus on, ask the therapist if they specialize in that area and how frequently they treat clients with problems similar to yours. Ask if the practitioner believes the therapy can effectively address your complaint.  Ask whether there is a brochure or web site to tell you more about their practice. Ask about charges. How much do treatments cost? If you have insurance that covers massage and holistic healthcare, does the practitioner accept your insurance or participate in your insurer's network? Even with insurance, you may be responsible for a percentage of the cost.  Ask about the hours appointments are offered. How long is the wait for an appointment? Consider whether this will be convenient for your schedule. Ask about office location. If you are concerned, ask about public transportation and parking. If you need a building with an elevator or a wheelchair ramp, ask about them.  Ask what will be involved in the first visit, when you should arrive, and how long the session will last. Observe how comfortable you feel during these first interactions.  Once you have gathered the information, assess the answers and determine which practitioner was best able to respond to your questions and best suits your needs.