"If my mother wanted to treat a critical illness using alternative medicine, I would first ask how she came to her conclusion. I would ask what particular therapies she was interested in and how much research she has conducted. Many people believe that because a treatment is natural, it can do no harm, so it would be important to me that I dispell that belief as much as possible. Mainly, I would not be judgemental and would be sure to come from a respectful point of view. I would want my mother to receive honest advice, whether that advice comes from another Ph.D. or me. If she were adamant about these alternative therapies, I would offer to go with her to a naturopathic practitioner where we could find a compromise of some sort - where traditional and non-traditional treatments could meet."