Crystal healing

Written by Emily Whitton
Emily Whitton
Therapy Directory Content Team

Last updated 13th June 2022 | Next update due 12th June 2025

Crystal healing is a holistic and natural therapy that taps into the energetic power of crystals and how they affect the body and mind. A crystal therapist will place healing crystals on or around a client to help unblock, focus and direct energy.

How does crystal healing work?

Crystal healing is an energy-based system. This means it is based on the belief that we are all made up of different energies and that when this becomes stagnant, unbalanced, or blocked, it can cause illness. The premise is that crystals help unblock, balance, and direct energy where it is most needed, gently supporting the body to heal in a therapeutic way.

Different types of crystals are thought to have different properties and energies. Just holding and being near these crystals is, therefore, thought to affect our own energies on a physical, spiritual, and emotional level.

Crystal healers have extensive knowledge of the different stones and how they affect us and are able to use them in healing sessions. There are several different ways this can be done, but the most common is to have the client lie down and place the crystals on or around them in a specific way.

The types of crystals used and their positioning will depend on what the client is seeking support for. This could range from a physical concern such as headaches or stress to more emotional or spiritual concerns.

Holistic therapists who offer crystal healing

What to expect in a crystal healing session

The idea of crystal healing may sound far-fetched, but if you are open and willing to explore the world of energy healing, this is a wonderful place to start. It can also help to know what to expect before you book a session.

Sessions will be tailored to you and will differ depending on the nature of your concern. Your session will begin with a consultation. This is when you speak with your crystal therapist about what’s brought you to them and what you’re hoping for. Your therapist will ask a number of questions; crystal healing is a holistic approach, meaning it looks at all aspects of health (physical, mental and spiritual) and so your therapist will want to get a full picture.

Once you have had your consultation, your therapist will know what approach will work best for you, which crystals to use, and how to place them. You will be made comfortable and asked to lie down (fully clothed) on a sofa or on cushions on the floor.

When you are relaxed with your eyes closed, your therapist will begin placing crystals on and around your body. Sometimes the therapist will use a dowsing pendulum to help them determine where the crystals should go.

Crystals are a part of Mother Earth, connecting, balancing and harmonising. They also connect with all living things not only within but interconnecting with the energy fields around us too.

- Therapist Jacky Jueno.

The crystals will be left in place for a certain amount of time (this will depend on your circumstances but can be anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour). During this time you are encouraged to breathe deeply and simply relax. Your therapist may add or remove crystals during the session.

Some people report feeling sensations (a warmth or tingle) while others feel nothing. Don’t worry if you don’t feel anything, this doesn’t mean your energies haven’t been affected.

When the session is over, your therapist will remove the crystals and you’ll be encouraged to ground yourself in your body by becoming aware of your surroundings and physical sensations. Some people say they feel a difference in themselves immediately, for others it takes longer for the healing to take effect.

You may be recommended a number of treatments and often people choose to have ongoing treatments to support their overall health. As the healing takes place, you may experience an energetic detox, when negative energy quickly leaves your body. This can lead to difficult emotions being brought to the surface, so it’s important to ensure your crystal therapist is qualified and experienced to support you.

How much does crystal therapy cost?

Typically, crystal healing sessions will cost between £25 and £60 per hour. However, the cost of sessions will vary depending on your location and the therapist themselves.

While we encourage our members to include cost information on their profiles, we recommend you contact your chosen therapist for further details.


What can crystals help with?

There are hundreds of different types of crystals, all of which hold particular energy and power and each can be used to aid healing for a variety of issues. As mentioned, these concerns can be physical, such as stress, or spiritual, like bringing courage. Here are some examples:

Energy

Clear quartz: Known as the 'master crystal'  and clear in colour, this is ideal for restoring and focusing energy, encouraging energetic balance and improving clarity.

Self-love

Rose quartz: A soft pink stone, rose quartz is known as the ‘love stone’ and can help to encourage self-love, as well as unconditional love for others and everything around us. It is designed to reawaken our faith. 

Sleep

Coming in various shades of purple, amethyst relates to your intuition and is known for aiding restful sleep. It is also thought to reduce nightmares.

Anxiety 

Given its calming nature, amethyst can also be used to relieve symptoms of anxiety and stress by helping to balance troubling thoughts and fears. 

Protection

Black in colour, the onyx is hailed as a protection stone, helping to protect against and absorb negative energy.

Success

Citrine, a vibrant orange stone, is known as the stone of ‘success’ and can increase personal power, ideal for those in demanding careers. It can also be used to rid negativity and instil confidence. 

Confidence 

Tigers' eye crystals help us assess any false narratives we may have about ourselves and our capabilities, helping to let go of our inner critic. 

Do your research before buying crystals to help you understand their different properties and uses.


Crystal healing benefits

Crystal healing is a complementary and natural approach, meaning it can be used alongside traditional medicine and has no negative side effects. The benefits of crystal healing are varied and take place on several different levels.

Perhaps the most common benefit reported is the deep relaxation that takes place during a session. This type of relaxation helps aid general well-being and is particularly useful when treating stress and anxiety. It can also help ease tense muscles which can help improve physical pain and sleeping problems.

On an emotional and spiritual level, crystals can help enhance self-esteem, encourage clarity and inspire a sense of peace and centredness.

Anyone can enjoy these benefits, however, if you are sceptical about the process you will naturally close yourself off. Because of this, having an open mind and no preconceptions or assumptions is key.  

For some, crystals may also have a positive impact on their mood and happiness. Thought to bring good health, help heal, and bring greater happiness, there are a number of crystals that can specifically help with this.

Common misconceptions

Some people believe healing crystals work like a magic wand and that everything will be better immediately. The truth is, there is no ‘magic’ behind crystal healing. Instead, they enhance what you are already working on. They are very interactive and rely on you being actively involved in your own spiritual journey. For this reason, it can be helpful to continue your work outside of crystal healing sessions.

More than just a self-care trend: Insider discusses healing crystals and how they work.

How to use crystals at home

There are a number of different ways you can get started with crystal healing. Whether you’re having crystal healing sessions or you just want to dip your toe in the water, having your own crystals at home can be incredibly beneficial. Let’s look at what forms of healing crystals you can get:

Cut crystals - when raw crystals have been cut and polished into certain shapes, including wands. These are usually more expensive than other types.

Tumblestones - polished crystals that are smaller and widely available. These are often cheaper than cut crystals.

Raw crystals - uncut and unpolished, these crystals come in chunks and aren’t as shiny as other types. As they haven’t been cut or polished, they tend to be the cheapest to buy.

Cleansing and setting intentions

Crystals naturally absorb the energy around them and so this can help to regularly cleanse them, energetically. There are several ways you can do this including burying them in the earth overnight, washing them in salt water, and putting them outside under a full moon.

When your crystal is cleansed and ready to be used, you can set intentions for your stone. All this means is taking a few quiet minutes with your stone and setting an intention for how you want it to support you. For example, if you’re struggling with the demands of your job, you may pick up a citrine crystal and set this intention: “I want to feel more energetic, motivated and open to opportunities at work”.

You can use Reiki energy to cleanse them and even if you are not trained in Reiki, you can simply hold the crystals between both hands, close your eyes and say out loud or in your head: “I call a rain shower of divine healing light to cleanse these crystals, right now.”

- Therapist Sophiero Healing - B-J Raben.

How to use crystals

Once you have bought your crystals, cleansed them and set intentions, you can start reaping their benefits! To do this, keep your crystals in places that will most benefit you. Some people like to carry crystals on their person, in a small bag in their handbag/pocket or on a piece of jewellery.

You may also choose to put them in places around your house or work. If you’re struggling to sleep, you may want to keep an amethyst by your bed. If you’re lacking focus at work, a chunk of clear quartz on your desk can help.

Another lovely way to use crystals is to incorporate them into other wellness practices like yoga and meditation. Keep a selection of crystals nearby when you’re practising yoga or hold a crystal during meditation. This can help enhance the energetic work you’re already doing.

Crystals are a part of nature and simply being near them can help connect us with nature and the wisdom that comes from existing for millions of years. However, you choose to explore the power of crystals, enjoying their presence is nothing short of a gift.


Crystal healing for children and teens

Many parents find crystals can offer a simple, effective way of helping their child or teen to overcome obstacles. Safe and easily incorporated into day-to-day life, there are many healing crystals that can help children to:

  • improve their sleep
  • deal with emotional issues
  • overcome hurt feelings and soothe emotions
  • feel grounded and present in the moment
  • promote courage and boost self-esteem
  • provide good luck when taking exams
  • encourage leadership qualities
  • help children to think more clearly
  • promote healing

For more information on which crystals can help children with each specific challenge, check out 7 healing crystals for children.

Crystals may also be able to help children who are experiencing anxiety, are struggling to express themselves, experience anger or frustration, have behavioural problems, or may be struggling with speech delay. Discover more about crystals for children’s mental health.

An important part of the process is to allow your child to choose which crystal(s) feel right for them. Ensure that any crystals used are tumbled to prevent breakage. You can even teach children about how to cleanse their crystals to help them gain a greater understanding of the process and benefits of crystal healing. 

Healing crystals for teens and young adults

For many teens and young adults, making the leaps between school, college, and university can provide excitement and anxiety in equal parts. You may find yourself excited and eager one moment, then nervous, worried, stressed or overwhelmed the next.

With so many big changes happening, finding a supportive, accessible complementary therapy can provide positive benefits to your energies physically, emotionally, and spiritually. 

Find out more about which healing crystals can help you:

  • have a more restful sleep
  • counter self-doubt
  • increase focus while studying
  • boost performance and success
  • build confidence and courage
  • help absorb new ideas
  • increase organisation
  • bring good luck
  • assist with learning from mistakes
  • encourage self-love and self-care 
  • provide clarity and a sense of calm
  • ground you

Starting university? Try these 11 healing crystals to help during your first year at university.


Crystal healing is most effective when working alongside a professional, as they are able to scan the body for any imbalances and identify which crystals are right for you. If you feel you would benefit from seeing a crystal healing therapist, you can use our advanced search tool to find the best match for you. 

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