As in all disciplines, common assumptions by practitioners and scientist evaluating those practitioners are made despite the best efforts of those involved. Among the energy medicine practitioner community there is a common belief that no harm can or will be done to the client. Since there are now studies documenting actual physical change as a result of energy medicine practices, we cannot assume that practitioners cannot cause damage. Careful assessment of the practitioner will help the scientist select individuals who are competent and safe to practice in the research environment