Spiritual or psychic healing is believed to transfer healing energy by the laying on of hands. Christians say it works through God or "the Christ energy" and spiritualists claim that the spirits of physicians heal through them. Some healers say they are helped by angels. Many describe themselves as channeling "cosmic" or "universal energy," "light," or "bioenergy." People may experience this energy as a hot or cool current, relieving pain, and promoting well-being and relaxation. Some healers touch their clients, others work only in the energy field. Some combine healing with massage, others use crystals, color, and sound.

Instant "miracle" cures are rare, but most people receive some benefit, from the relief of stress, depression, and pain, to the alleviation of chronic conditions. Treatment may include examining underlying emotional problems. Now?adays healers are encouraged to train in counseling techniques and a few are even qualified psychotherapists. For lasting benefit, regular sessions may be necessary over some weeks or months.

In spite of American researcher Dr. Dan Benor's recent publication of more than 155 controlled studies showing that healing is effective, many physicians and scientists are still skeptical, dismissing any effects as being due to suggestion. Yet babies and animals seem to respond particularly well, and well-conducted experiments have all shown a definite effect on living organisms such as plant and seed growth, blood samples, and cancer cells. Experiments have also shown that distant healing, in the form of prayer or thought sent to people elsewhere, has similarly measurable effects. In many states and also in parts of Germany, it is a prisonable offense to practice healing using "psychic power," whereas in Britain healing is not only legal but widespread and well organized. Some British physicians even have healers in their clinics, and members of the National Federation of Spiritual Healers in Britainhal been allowed to visit patients in 1,500 hospitals sim the 1970s. An umbrella organization - the UK Confederation of Healing Organizations - includes 14 member organizations and about 8,000 healers, covering a variety of spiritual beliefs. They run training courses, abide by a code of conduct, and offer healing as a complement to conventional medical healthcare.

When seeking a healer, avoid those who demand a substantial advance financial commitment, or insist that you abandon medication or your religious beliefs.