Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Sound Healing, Vibrational, and Sonotherapy Association (SHVSA)?

SHVSA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, regulating, and promoting the art of sound healing. We set educational standards, certify practitioners, teachers, and schools, and ensure ethical practices in the field.

2. What is sound healing?

Sound healing is a therapeutic practice that uses sound vibrations to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It involves instruments like Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, and tuning forks to create healing frequencies.

3. Who can join SHVSA?

SHVSA is open to anyone passionate about sound healing, including practitioners, teachers, schools, and individuals who wish to support the preservation and promotion of this art form.

4. How can I become a certified practitioner?

To become a licensed practitioner, you must complete our Level 1-4 courses at a SHVSA-certified school, pass the required exams, and meet the attendance requirements. After certification, you can practice according to the guidelines of your level.

5. What instruments are used in sound healing?

Sound healing commonly uses handmade Tibetan singing bowls, gongs, tuning forks, tingsha, bells, and other traditional instruments. Crystal bowls and machine-made bowls are not permitted in SHVSA-certified practices.

6. What are the requirements to become a certified teacher?

To become a certified teacher, you must first be a certified practitioner with at least one year of experience in the field. After gaining practical experience, you can apply to become a teacher by submitting your credentials and teaching experience for SHVSA's approval. Certified teachers can instruct others at the levels they are certified in.

7. How do I certify my school with SHVSA?

To certify your school, you must have a certified Level 4 lead teacher, adhere to SHVSA's code of conduct, submit a detailed manual, and pass the approval process. Certification must be renewed annually.

8. How do I maintain my certification?

To maintain your certification, you must adhere to the SHVSA code of conduct, follow ethical guidelines, update your curriculum to align with SHVSA standards, and keep your teaching manual current. Certification renewals occur annually.

9. What are the benefits of SHVSA certification?

SHVSA certification provides you with credibility, access to a network of professionals, marketing opportunities, and access to resources like workshops, advocacy, and community events. It also ensures you’re recognized for practicing or teaching sound healing to the highest standards.

10. What happens if a school or practitioner does not comply with SHVSA guidelines?

Non-compliance with SHVSA guidelines can lead to suspension or revocation of certification. We encourage reporting any misconduct or breaches of our code of conduct through our reporting form.

11. What is covered in the Level 1-4 courses?

The Level 1-4 courses cover foundational theories and practical skills in sound healing, including chakra healing, sound bath facilitation, use of traditional instruments, and more advanced therapies like tuning fork vibrational therapy.

12. What is the Master Course, and how can I enroll?

The Master Course is an advanced program available only to those who have completed Levels 1-4 and demonstrated expertise in the field. It dives deeper into the science and ancient teachings that form the foundation of sound healing practices. Enrollment is limited and by invitation.

13. How long does it take to complete each course?

The duration of each course varies depending on the school, but certification is based on attendance and passing the final exam, not the length of the course.

14. How can I become an authorized seller of sound healing equipment?

To become an authorized seller of sound healing equipment through SHVSA, you must adhere to our strict quality guidelines. This includes offering only handmade Tibetan Singing Bowls, high-quality gongs, precise tuning forks, and other certified sound healing tools. Apply through our website by submitting the required documentation and agreeing to our standards.

16. How can I stay informed about upcoming events?

You can stay informed by signing up for our newsletter, following us on social media, and regularly checking our in-person trainings and online events pages.

17. How do I register for SHVSA events or workshops?

Registration details for events and workshops are provided on our Events page. You can register online through the provided links.

18. What types of events does SHVSA organize?

SHVSA organizes a variety of events, including workshops, training sessions, conferences, and community gatherings. These events are designed to promote learning, networking, and the exchange of knowledge in the field of sound healing.

19. How can I report misconduct or unethical behavior?

If you witness any misconduct or non-compliance with SHVSA's guidelines, please fill out the report form available on our website. Provide as much detail as possible about the case. We appreciate your help in maintaining the integrity and ethical standards of the sound healing community.

20. What types of sound healing certifications does SHVSA offer?

SHVSA offers certifications at multiple levels: Level 1 for basic group sound baths, and healing for Chakras and Aura, Level 2 for therapies, and extensive group sound baths including Gong and Tibetan Bell healing, Level 3 for chanting, pranayama, breathwork, and stress and anxiety relief, and Level 4 for specialized vibrational therapy using Tuning Forks and more. Each level builds on the previous one, culminating in a Master Course for those who wish to further their expertise.

15. How can I contact SHVSA for support or inquiries?

You can reach us through our "Contact Us" page on the website, where you’ll find a form to submit your inquiries, you may also fill the form below. For immediate assistance, you can also email us at sound@shvsa.org. We are here to help with any questions or concerns you may have.

21. How do I renew my license or certification?

To renew your SHVSA license or certification will simply auto-renew every year post the payment confirmation. Remember, all certifications must be renewed annually, and maintaining your certification requires adherence to our Code of Conduct and Ethical Guidelines. Failure to renew will result in the expiration of your credentials.

Contact Us

Reach out to us for any inquiries regarding sound healing, courses, therapies, and curriculum development. We are here to help!