Frequently Asked Questions
A: The International Board of Healing (IBOH) is an independent credentialing organization for holistic, intuitive, and integrative practitioners. We evaluate practitioners against professional and ethical standards and award the Holistic Healer Certified (HHC) designation to qualified candidates.
A: HHC stands for Holistic Healer Certified. It is a professional credential that signals to clients and the public that you have been reviewed by an independent board, that you operate under a published Code of Ethics, and that your standing can be verified through our public directory.
A: Any practitioner who has completed training in a holistic, integrative, or intuitive healing modality and is actively practicing (or preparing to practice) with clients. There is no geographic restriction — we credential practitioners worldwide.
A: The HHC is intentionally modality-agnostic. We credential practitioners across the full spectrum of holistic practice, including but not limited to: Reiki, energy healing, intuitive guidance, somatic bodywork, herbalism, sound healing, breathwork, holistic nutrition, meditation facilitation, aromatherapy, crystal healing, hypnotherapy, spiritual counseling, EFT/tapping, reflexology, and many more.
A: The initial board review and certification fee is $350 USD. This includes the complete review process, all credential materials (digital certificate, Board-Certified seal, post-nominal letters), and your first year listed in the IBOH Practitioner Directory.
A: Most applications are reviewed within 10–15 business days of submission.
A: No. The HHC is a professional designation issued by an independent credentialing organization. It is not a government license and does not authorize the practice of medicine, psychology, or any other regulated profession. It is a credential that demonstrates your commitment to professional and ethical standards within holistic practice.
A: No formal degree is required. We evaluate practitioners based on their holistic training, demonstrated experience, scope of practice, and commitment to ethical standards.
A: If your application doesn't meet our current standards, you'll receive specific feedback and guidance. You're welcome to reapply after addressing any noted areas. Candidates not approved are eligible for a partial refund.
A: Yes. To maintain active status, the HHC designation requires annual renewal. Renewal fees and requirements will be communicated well before your renewal date.
A: Yes. All active HHC practitioners are listed in the IBOH Global Practitioner Directory. Anyone can search the directory to verify a practitioner's current standing.
A: Many holistic associations function as membership organizations — you pay a fee and join. IBOH is a credentialing body with a formal review process. We evaluate your qualifications, require adherence to a published Code of Ethics, and maintain a public verification directory. The HHC designation is earned, not purchased.