A Pagan therapist refers to a mental health professional who incorporates Paganism into their therapy practice. Paganism is a broad term that encompasses various contemporary religious, spiritual, and magical practices that are often rooted in pre-Christian traditions. Pagan therapists may integrate these beliefs and practices into their therapeutic approach to promote healing and well-being for their clients. One key aspect of Pagan therapy is its emphasis on the sacredness of nature and the interconnectedness of all living beings. Pagan therapists may encourage their clients to spend time in natural environments, engage in ecotherapy, or incorporate rituals and ceremonies that honor the Earth and its cycles. This approach acknowledges the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature and fosters a deep sense of belonging and connection to the world around us.
Placebo effect
The placebo effect is when a person’s physical or mental health appears to improve after taking a placebo or ‘dummy’ treatment.
Placebo is Latin for 'I will please' and refers to a treatment that appears real, but is designed to have no therapeutic benefit. A placebo can be a sugar pill, a water or salt water (saline) injection or even a fake surgical procedure.
The placebo effect is triggered by the person's belief in the benefit from the treatment and their expectation of feeling better, rather than the characteristics of the placebo.
‘Impure placebos’ are medications that have an active effect on the body, but not on the condition being treated.
Placebos are often used in clinical trials to help understand the real effect of a new treatment – both positive benefits and also possible side effects.
This approach acknowledges the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature and fosters a deep sense of belonging and connection to the world around us. Another significant aspect of Pagan therapy is its recognition of the power of symbolism and mythology. Pagan therapists may utilize various symbols, archetypes, and mythological stories in their therapy sessions to help clients explore and understand their own experiences, emotions, and struggles.
How do placebos work?
It is still not known exactly how the placebo effect works. Some of the theories that attempt to explain it include:
- Self-limiting disorders – many conditions, such as the common cold , are self-limiting. They will resolve by themselves anyway, with or without placebos or medications, and the end of symptoms is just a coincidence.
- Remission – the symptoms of some disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and lupus , may come and go. A remission (period of time when the symptoms go away) during a course of placebos may be coincidence, and not due to the placebos at all.
- A change in behaviour – the placebo may increase a person's motivation to take better care of themselves. Improved diet , regular exercise or rest may be responsible for the easing of their symptoms.
- Altered perception – the person's interpretation of their symptoms may change with the expectation of feeling better. For example, they may interpret a sharp pain as an uncomfortable tingling instead.
- Reduced anxiety – taking the placebo and expecting to feel better may be soothing and reduce the levels of stress chemicals the body produces, such as adrenaline.
- Brain chemicals – placebos may trigger the release of the body's own natural pain relievers, the brain chemicals known as endorphins.
- Altered brain state – research indicates that the brain responds to an imagined scene in much the same way as it responds to an actual visualised scene. A placebo may help the brain to remember a time before the onset of symptoms, and then bring about change to the body. This theory is called 'remembered wellness'.
These symbols and stories can provide a framework for personal growth, self-reflection, and transformation. In addition, Pagan therapists often emphasize personal empowerment, self-discovery, and individual autonomy. They may encourage their clients to explore and express their own spirituality, beliefs, and values, allowing for a more holistic approach to therapy that honors each person's unique journey. It is important to note that Pagan therapy is a relatively niche approach and may not be suitable or appealing to everyone. However, for individuals who resonate with Paganism or are seeking a therapy experience that incorporates spirituality and nature-based practices, a Pagan therapist can provide a supportive and affirming space for growth and healing. Overall, a Pagan therapist offers a therapeutic approach that embraces spirituality, nature, symbolism, and personal empowerment. By integrating Pagan principles and practices into therapy, clients can explore and honor their own unique spiritual path while addressing their mental health needs..
Reviews for "Discovering the Divine Feminine: Exploring Goddess Spirituality in Pagan Therapeutic Practices"
- John - 1/5
I found "Pagan therapist" to be extremely disappointing. The author's attempt to blend therapy with pagan spirituality felt forced and contrived. It seemed like a desperate attempt to appeal to a specific niche audience rather than presenting valuable and practical information. The book lacked depth and substance, and I found myself quickly losing interest. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for genuine and insightful guidance in therapy or paganism.
- Sarah - 2/5
I was excited to read "Pagan therapist" as I am interested in both therapy and paganism. However, I was let down by the lack of cohesion and clear direction in this book. The author jumps from one topic to another without fully exploring any of them. It felt more like a collection of loosely related essays rather than a cohesive work. Additionally, I found the writing style to be dry and difficult to engage with. While there were some interesting tidbits here and there, overall, I was left unsatisfied with this book.
- Mike - 1/5
I couldn't even make it through the first few chapters of "Pagan therapist". The writing was convoluted and confusing, making it hard to follow the author's train of thought. The book lacked clear structure and organization, leaving me feeling lost and frustrated. Additionally, I found the author's perspective to be biased and lacking in objectivity. It felt like they were pushing their own agenda rather than providing balanced and useful information. I would not recommend wasting your time on this book.