Members of the Association live in the three counties of Dorset, Hants and Wilts and bordering areas. Full Members are practising Spiritual Healers whose bona fides have been rigorously checked. Probationer Members are undergoing development and training in practice over a two year period, each being supervised by two registered healers. Associate Members are supporters of the Association, often (former) patients and friends, who are not themselves practitioners of healing.

Spiritual Healing has long been practised in many countries and many cultures and is historically recorded in many religious archives. Its Source is a Divine Power which is channelled by the healer to the patient, by gently placing hands on, or near, the patient in silent prayer. As a patient you need not, yourself, have any particular or strong belief (though such belief does seem to be an aid). Your personal belief, or none, is not the concern of the healer. You will experience a feeling of peace, relaxation and easement. The natural healing forces of mind and body would be enhanced, assisting and co-operating with your medical treatment. Your healer will be sympathetic to whatever you choose to discuss, even when you unburden your troubles; you may be assured of complete confidentiality. If you approach the healing with positive expectancy and receptiveness, you will almost certainly feel better for your visit to a healer, although normally several sessions are required to progress your easement.

There is nothing to fear; Spiritual Healing does not entail any action upon your body or your mind by the healer, and no manipulation is carried out or any prescription made of medicines or drugs or herbs. It is entirely complementary with the advice and treatment given by your medical doctor, with whom lies the responsibility of diagnosis and whom you are encouraged to consult.

This Association (DHWSHA) was officially started in April 1982 by ten Founder Members who were already experienced and acknowledged practitioners. For a number of years the Association was in relationship with some nationally-organised bodies relating to healing practices, but in 1995 it was decided to maintain its independence within the terms of its status as a Registered Charity. The membership of DHWSHA in January 2000 was about 200.

The Association is administered by an Honorary Executive Committee which is elected at an AGM in the Spring. Applications for membership in any grade should be sent to the Membership Secretary. The necessary information will be collated and submitted to the Executive Committee for consideration and decision.

Intending Probationer Members should obtain details of the Training Schedule from the Membership Secretary or the Secretary. Applicants for Direct Entry as Full Members should be able to show the basis of their training, and demonstrate that they have been giving effective Spiritual Healing service over at least the three recent years, as indicated by the experience of at least four patients in written testimonials, within that period.

The practice of Spiritual Healing by members of DHWSHA is regulated by a Code of Conduct, which is mandatory at all times.