It is advisable to seek the approval of your GP, Oncologist or Specialist Consultant prior to starting any complementary therapies. Complementary therapies work well alongside orthodox medicine. Many physicians are now referring their patients to complementary therapists, who may work within the hospital setting, out-patient departments and/or privately. A complementary therapist will work alongside your doctor to help facilitate an improvement in your health and wellbeing. The following points should be considered when choosing a therapist.

Therapists should be
• Qualified and experienced in the therapies they offer
• Registered with an appropriate professional body (see list below)
• Fully insured for the therapies they offer
• Happy to tell you about their background, training and experience and offer you any leaflets or literature that may demonstrate that
• Willing to liaise with your physician if required.

It is preferable that
• Therapists have a basic understanding of cancer and its various treatments
• Therapists have undertaken some specific training in cancer care.

Therapists should never
• Diagnose or prescribe medication for you.
• Adjust any of the medication you have been prescribed by your regular physician.
• Encourage you to abandon conventional treatments
• Mislead you with promises of cures.
• Make you feel uncomfortable in any way

Personal recommendations are always useful
You can choose the therapy you are interested in from our description of therapies and then check on our local practitioners’ list to find one near you.

Costs
Most therapists charge for treatments – check costs before you book as they may vary. Prices may range from £20 to £40 per session. Some healers may offer their services free of charge or request a nominal donation.