There are a few simple guidelines which anyone can follow in choosing the right discipline or modality, or teacher, regardless of the path chosen for inner development. These will help the seeker to avoid the pitfalls awaiting the unwary.

Fear, nowadays, is applied in subtle ways, such as peer group pressure, with its attendant fear of rejection. Cult groups are often held together by the fear of not being able to be saved', or of being left behind on the evolutionary path.

Some teachers claim that their methods will not work in conjunction with other methods. these teachers might actually tell you that using another method will cause you to lose what they have taught you, or given you initiations for. This is simply not so. You may feel more comfortable using their way over another, but incorporating other modalities can only strengthen your work. All healing comes from God, and, as such, cannot be exclusive of other ways.

When you are faced with new ideas, or encouraged to join a new group, or follow a particular teacher, take a moment to look closely at whether the fear tool is present. If it is, be wary, as once you have joined such a group, breaking away may prove exceedingly difficult.

Ego inflation is another subtle way in which groups, or teachers, attract members. Claims of being very special, or of being elite, or unique in offering development only available through a particular group pale when we remember that anyone who has the love of God in their heart, expressed openly and freely, is a special person with an important mission to fulfill. Be careful of being taken in by ego inflating claims. Curbing the ego is one of the first steps toward spiritual development.

Possible the most difficult test is that of free will. A true spiritual teaching should help individuals find rapport with their spiritual selves.

Discernment requires that we develop clarity and trust, be clear about what we are looking for, and trust our intuitive guidance about where and how to look, and how to judge the quality of what we are drawn to.

Investigate the teacher's reputation. Ask around about the teacher, and about the teacher's teaching style, and materials.

Speak to the teacher of the class. Do you like what they say, and how they say it? Do you feel right about this teacher?

Ask about the teacher's qualifications to teach the subject they are offering: when did they train, and with whom? It is also good to know if the teacher takes part in an on-going training now. Especially in the fields of healing and spiritual growth , skills updates are important.

Trust your gut feelings. If you feel doubtful, don't take the class. Even if all your friends say the teacher was great, you are unique, with your own path, and your own lessons to learn.

Don't fall for hard-sell techniques. A reputable teacher is not going to disappear, so don't be pressured into taking a class in a hurry. Good, reputable teachers will rarely use hard-sell techniques simply because they don't need to.

Buy or borrow tapes, books, or other materials created by the teacher, to see if you feel a resonance with their approach. Very often you can tell about how you will do with a particular teacher for a minimal investment.

Ask if there is on-going support available.Especially in things like Reiki, where initiations can bring about life-changing experiences, the ability to call the teacher and ask about what is happening is very useful. Will you be able to get in touch with your teacher when you have questions? Will you be able to review your classes at a later date? Will you be able to ask your teacher about issues which come up as you practice what you have learned?