Modern medical treatment can be an unpleasant, dehumanizing experience. This critique on present practices in the health service believes that coupling the available technology with counselling and communication forms a basis for the best physical and psychological care of patients. Contributors illustrate the types of patients that might benefit from counselling and suggest potential strategies for assistance. Counselling tactics are discussed for patients with chronic illnesses, severe disfigurements or disabling conditions. Infertility, genetic counselling, paediatrics and neonatal intensive care are also covered.