If you are searching for a Pagan counselor near you, there are a few things you can do to find one. First, you may want to explore local Pagan or Wiccan community groups. These groups often have forums or directories where members can recommend and share information about counselors who are knowledgeable about Paganism and can provide support from an understanding perspective. Another option is to search online directories or databases that specialize in connecting individuals with counselors who have specific expertise or specializations. These databases often allow you to search by location and filter by specific areas of expertise, such as Paganism or Wicca. This can be a great way to find counselors who are knowledgeable about and respectful of your spiritual beliefs.
Also, above all, remember that your alternatively spiritual clients are human. They will experience spiritual doubts and existential angst, just like anybody. For example, they may question whether the Gods exist. They may question why the Gods did not protect them from the traumas that occurred. They may get angry with their Gods, and may need to express that in therapy. Sound familiar? Any therapist who has dealt with grief knows what it is like to hold the space for a client who is angry at God, the Universe, or whatever higher power they have in their lives. Your job is not to question their beliefs or hold an agenda about how the internal conflict is resolved. Your job is unconditional positive regard. Everything else is just details.
Any therapist who has dealt with grief knows what it is like to hold the space for a client who is angry at God, the Universe, or whatever higher power they have in their lives. I played down my experience of feeling deep connection with the Universe as I soaked in the moonlight and talked with the stars at night to little more than a nice night under the stars.
This can be a great way to find counselors who are knowledgeable about and respectful of your spiritual beliefs. Additionally, you may want to consider reaching out to local Pagan or metaphysical shops. These shops often have community boards or newsletters where they share information about events, workshops, and services in the area.
Counseling Alternatively Spiritual People
Spirituality can be one of the most valuable resources that people have, on their healing journey. Positive effects of religion on mental health have been well documented. People who attend religious services have been shown to live an average of 7-14 years longer than people who do not. The benefits of spiritual community have been so well-recognized that Atheists and free-thinkers are finding ways to build that community for themselves.
It is vitally important for a counselor to support their clients’ spirituality, however they may define or express that. Most therapists will say that they do this, and for the most part, they are sincere. They can meet challenges, however, when they run into spiritual practices that are unfamiliar for them. The therapist may give off a “vibe” of being uncomfortable even when they have good intentions. This can lead to clients feeling guarded about their spirituality, afraid to discuss it even when it is relevant to their mental health. It can also lead to them terminating therapy prematurely, and feeling uncomfortable with seeking therapy again.
This is an experience often reported by people who identify as Pagan, Wiccan or Earth-based in their spiritual tradition. The clinical community has taken some steps in the right direction. Wicca is becoming more accepted as a spiritual path. I was pleased to see that the Wings Foundation mentions Wicca in their chapter on Spirituality, in the member handbook. While I would prefer to see some recognition that not all Pagans are Wiccan, the inclusion reflects an understanding that most alternative religions are life-affirming and supportive. This is contrary to the dangerous stereotypes perpetuated by a small handful of Christians, who were raised to believe that Pagan ritual is ritual abuse.
For a trauma-informed counselor, the term “ritual abuse” brings up nightmarish visions of unimaginable cruelty. These images can be haunting. It can lead us to experiencing a sense of protective outrage on our clients’ behalf. It can also lead us to have some apprehension when clients mention that they are part of a fringe religious group. Is it a positive support network, or an abusive cult? Having worked with members of the Pagan community, I can assure you that it is most likely the former. That said, reports of abusive groups are not unheard of, and I am always deeply saddened to hear about religious leaders that abuse their power. These occurrences seem not to discriminate based on tradition. Abusive acts are perpetrated by Protestant ministers or Catholic priests as well. Abuse by religious leaders is always unconscionable, and counselors need to have awareness of what does (and does not) constitute an abusive situation.
Here are some things to be aware of:
-Hierarchies: If the organization has a “high priest” or “high priestess”, what does the client’s relationship to that person look like? Most high priests or priestesses earn their title by doing a tremendous amount of personal and spiritual work. They may provide valuable services such as spiritual mentorship, weddings, baby blessings or rights of passage. In a healthy group structure, the leader will relate to their duties with dedication and humility.
-Money: Is the group asking for more money than they need, to keep the organization functioning? There may be member dues or occasional requests for donations. This covers the cost of ritual space, supplies and printer ink for educational materials. It is also important to remember that some spiritual teachers spend a tremendous amount of time and energy doing their work. It is reasonable to charge for classes or other professional services that are offered. However, if the organization demands a huge financial sacrifice on the part of members, this is a red flag.
-Sex: Many Pagan groups honor sexuality as sacred, when it takes place between consenting adults. This may very well be a part of ritual, for some people. It should never be a requirement for initiation or membership in a group.
-Secrecy: If there is a vow of secrecy, there may be a good reason for it. Some Pagan organizations involve intense personal work, and this work cannot occur without trust between members. There is also a widely held belief that revealing details of rituals may interfere with the energy of the group. If a client does not want to tell you about what happens in ritual, you will need to respect that boundary.
In a sense, all therapists take a vow of secrecy, by virtue of beginning our practices. We know the damage that can be done by violating our client’s confidentiality. Sometimes, we all need to be selective about what we share with others. Empower your client’s decision to be selective, even with you.
Transparency: There should be some disclosure about why major group decisions are made, where the money goes, and how hierarchies are set up. Group leaders should be approachable, respectful of dissenting opinions and available for questions. While decision-making power might not always be “equal”, nobody should be treated as powerless or without value.
Relationship to non-group members: Be cautious about groups that look down upon other religious traditions, discourage members from joining other groups, or negatively impact relationships with those who are not part of the group. If your client starts to lose relationships with family or friends after joining the group, concern may be warranted.
Concluding thoughts:
I would like to call upon all counselors to use common sense, and apply basic clinical skills. Rather than evaluating a client’s spiritual practices based on a conventional understanding of religion, notice how the client relates to those practices. Do they talk about them with a sense of joy or excitement? How does their practice affect their lives, outside of ritual? Does it give them a sense of meaning and contentment? Remember, spiritual paths can be challenging, but any challenges that the client faces should enhance their lives in some way, even if the benefit is not immediately obvious to you.
Any competent therapist knows what trauma looks like. They know how to evaluate an abusive relationship. If the client’s ritual group resembles an abusive relationship, or they return from ritual with trauma symptoms, act accordingly. Unless these symptoms are showing up, then you have nothing to worry about.
Also, above all, remember that your alternatively spiritual clients are human. They will experience spiritual doubts and existential angst, just like anybody. For example, they may question whether the Gods exist. They may question why the Gods did not protect them from the traumas that occurred. They may get angry with their Gods, and may need to express that in therapy. Sound familiar? Any therapist who has dealt with grief knows what it is like to hold the space for a client who is angry at God, the Universe, or whatever higher power they have in their lives. Your job is not to question their beliefs or hold an agenda about how the internal conflict is resolved. Your job is unconditional positive regard. Everything else is just details.
There are a number of alternative 12- and 13-step Pagan programs. Here is one such system I like which was created by Circle Sanctuary priestess Selena Fox as part of her counseling master’s degree thesis at University of Wisconsin-Madison entitled “When Goddess is God: Pagans, Recovery, and Alcoholics Anonymous”(1995):
They may be able to point you in the direction of a counselor who is familiar with Paganism or Wicca. Lastly, don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from others in the Pagan community. You can reach out to friends, acquaintances, or online communities for suggestions. Often, word of mouth is one of the best ways to find a counselor who is a good fit for you. Remember, finding a counselor who understands and respects your spiritual beliefs is essential for effective therapy. Take the time to research and reach out to various resources to find a Pagan counselor near you who can provide the support and guidance you are seeking..
Reviews for "Rediscovering Ancient Wisdom: How Pagan Counseling Can Help You Reconnect with Your Authentic Self"
1. John - 1 out of 5 stars - I had a terrible experience with the pagan counselor near me. From the moment I walked in, I felt judged and uncomfortable. The counselor seemed more interested in pushing their own beliefs on me rather than understanding my needs. I didn't feel validated or supported in any way. I would not recommend this counselor to anyone seeking help with their pagan practices.
2. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars - I was really hopeful when I found a pagan counselor near me, but unfortunately, my experience was quite disappointing. The counselor seemed disinterested and unengaged throughout our sessions. They didn't offer any insightful or helpful guidance and often dismissed my concerns. I left each session feeling more confused than before. I feel like they lacked the necessary knowledge and expertise in pagan practices to effectively help me.
3. Michael - 2 out of 5 stars - I was looking forward to finding a pagan counselor near me who could understand my spiritual beliefs and provide guidance. However, my experience with this counselor fell short. They had a limited understanding of pagan practices and often made assumptions or generalizations that were inaccurate. It felt like they were just going through the motions without really delving into my specific needs. I was disappointed with the lack of depth and insight in our sessions.