Why aren't doctors always able to heal us? What do therapies such as homeopathy and acupuncture have to offer? Can hope be found in spiritual healing and prayer? There is a growing awareness today that conventional medicine does not have answers for everyone. Increasingly, many are finding help in other forms of healing. For anyone confused by the range of healing methods now on offer, this unique and invaluable guide outlines the different approaches they take. Stephen Parsons argues that we have much to learn from understanding the different cultures of healing. He also suggests that a key ingredient in any healing method is the extent to which the patient feels in control of his or her treatment.

STEPHEN PARSONS is a Vicar in Edinburgh and the author of Searching for Healing (1995). He has been involved in healing ministry and edits the magazine of the Churches Council for Healing and Health. In addition to his parish duties, he is the Oxford Diocese's exorcist.