Typically, the healer realizes his or her divine power late in life through a dream, a vision, a voice, or the development of a deep understanding of the sick. This healing ability is seen as a gift from God, so the curandero does not charge a fee. The patient usually leaves an offering or brings small gifts such as vegetables, a chicken, or a bag of freshly ground coffee. Curanderos may be male or female, young or old, and are highly respected and frequently called upon by their communities. They are found all along the Rio Grande and throughout southern Texas, but remain particularly important in the isolated reaches of Trans-Pecos Texas and northern Mexico where towns and doctors are few and far between.
Contemporary healers vary in cures as well as in where and how they practice.
Some work in homes with elaborately decorated home altars, some in small commercial healing centers, and some hold special healing sessions out in the countryside. Some wear colorful robes and caps, but most dress simply, in street clothes. Visitors will find evidence of folk healing practices in traditional Mexican markets and hierberias . Hierberias are specialty shops found in larger cities and some smaller towns in Texas. Their typical wares include blessed candles, packaged herbs, special soaps, incense, perfumes, and statues of saints.