It is the therapeutic relationship that makes the difference

People tend to value things they pay directly for. With almost all CAM treatments being user-paid, people want to feel they are getting their money’s worth, similar to the sunk cost effect. How a health care provider interacts with a patient brings about a positive response that’s independent of any specific treatment.^[1] Alternative medicine appointments tend to be significantly longer than a conventional appointment with a doctor or nurse and usually there is a prolonged period of time with the therapist’s undivided attention, asking the client many caring questions about their welfare and listening intently to the replies. This time and attention from the provider of alternative therapy improves wellbeing.

[P1] Alternative medicine generally incorporates a holistic approach where people become close to the practitioner. [P2] Alternative medicine works because of this approach.