Abstract 
    In Nepal, in recent years western Allopathic Medicine has become the dominant medical system. However, Complementary and Alternative Medicine continues to be widely used. Faith healing is commonly practiced. Medical students had witnessed a faith healing session during a visit to a hill village. Neurological and psychiatric illness may be considered by lay people to be due to possession by spirits. Shamans are effective as a psychotherapist to treat illness caused by social conflict. The opinion of the scientific community regarding faith healing is divided. Shamans are accepted in the village community. A trained and motivated shaman aware of his role and limitations can serve as an important agent of change in rural Nepal.
     Key Words: Complementary and alternative medicine, faith healing, neurological illness, shamans, social conflict