Victim becomes culprit Mr. Nguyen Minh Hung (character's name has been changed, 26 years old), a graphic designer in Hanoi, registered for an online psychological healing course after going through a nearly 8-year love breakup shock.
He came to this course through Facebook advertising, with the commitment: "After just 21 days of purifying your mind - you will live the best version of yourself".
At first, they said I was stuck in zedic energy, which needed to be removed through meditation, emotional logging therapy and subconscious detoxification. Each session is recorded, requiring the recording of the video to " read the energy frequency" through the eyes" - he said.
The first course is free of charge for 3 sessions. After that, he was led into "high-level" packages with the promise to open up potential, learn "communication techniques with subconscious". In total, Mr. Hung transferred nearly 14 million VND to attend 2 courses, but the more he studied, the more anxious and depressed he felt. Some classes require students to tell details about their past experiences of abuse, loss of loved ones, and then being led to believe that they are the "prosecutors" who caused that suffering.
I once burst into tears when they said: If I dont clean up properly, my negative energy will be transmitted to relatives, causing harm to my family. Now looking back, I see that they are sophisticated threats" - Mr. Hung said.
After that, he underwent psychological treatment at Bach Mai Hospital (Hanoi) for nearly 3 months. When his mental state was stable, Mr. Hung realized that the incident had passed.
A journey that requires alertness
Since the beginning of 2024, the Anti-Fraud organization has received many reports on the phenomenon of "healing" locks and "enlightening the mind" online with signs of profiteering and psychological manipulation of participants.
Cybersecurity expert Ngo Minh Hieu (Hieu PC) said that most of the subjects organizing healing classes do not disclose clear legal information, do not have practice certificates related to psychology or medicine. Many classes promote with spiritual language, using terms such as: "Light energy", "reversal connection", "unlocking the soul's mind"... making the injured easily absorbed.
Associate Professor, Dr. Tran Thanh Nam - Vice Principal of the University of Education - Vietnam National University, Hanoi - assessed that on social networks, there is currently a situation where many people after suffering from psychological trauma, when studying a few extra courses, they discover that "healing" is a business environment. Therefore, they have begun to strongly promote courses, build healing communities to develop business plans based on this "hot" keyword, but do not have a degree or received regular training.
In many countries around the world, to be able to operate healing services, trainers must be well-trained and the course must also be strictly controlled. In addition, Vietnamese people's awareness of mental health is still low. Many people have mental health problems but do not want to see a doctor and find a solution elsewhere.
According to Associate Professor, Dr. Tran Thanh Nam, since 2023, Vietnam has had the title of Psychologist and the 14th National Assembly passed the Law on Medical Examination and Treatment, in which the professional position of Clinical Psychologist requires mastery of hundreds of different techniques and certification from the Ministry of Health. Therefore, when looking for healing services, it is necessary to choose carefully, go to reputable hospitals to avoid falling into the "trap" of people without enough expertise and relying only on the keyword "heal" to make money.
Expert Ngo Minh Hieu also advised, before believing that someone calls themselves a "coach" or "treatressor", check whether they have a legal practice certificate or not. Absolutely do not transfer money hastily, or do not borrow to study unclear "soul healing" courses. If you really need psychological support, prioritize going to a hospital or center with a clear license.
He also noted that people should consult relatives and reputable experts before participating in any program. If you feel that you are being manipulated or too led away by emotions - stop. Healing is a journey that requires alertness, not an emotional game led by blind belief.
