S Alexander Alich

Shamanic practice in the West is an emerging therapeutic
modality often categorized within complementary and
alternative medicine (CAM). Over the last few decades, it
has moved into the public’s consciousness, bringing with
it many social and legal challenges. The aim of Alexander’s
research is to examine the experiences and practices
of western shamanic practitioners and participants and
the current social, safety, and risk issues that apply to
this emerging field in healthcare as it transitions from
traditional cultures into a contemporary Western setting.

This project will explore the concept of ‘safety’ in the
context of shamanic practice in both traditional and
contemporary Western settings. It will contribute to
academic understandings of CAM and shamanism, as well
as add to the body of professional knowledge within
the fields of shamanic studies and complementary and
alternative medicine for future public safety, policy, and
practice debates.