Research and Writing: Zenub Babur Butt
Several psychologists have explored the connection between occult sciences like astrology and tarot, and psychology. Here are a few notable examples:
• Carl Jung: A renowned psychoanalyst, Jung was fascinated by the symbolism and archetypes present in tarot cards. He believed that tarot cards could represent the collective unconscious, a concept he introduced .
• Elinor Greenberg: A practicing psychologist for over 30 years, Greenberg has written about the intersection of tarot and psychotherapy. She uses tarot cards as a tool to help clients gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
• Jerome Frank: A professor of psychiatry at Johns Hopkins, Frank researched the effects of psychotherapy and was open to exploring unconventional approaches, including astrology and tarot .
These psychologists demonstrate that there is a growing interest in exploring the connection between occult sciences and psychology.
I am referring to Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis!
While Freud’s work laid the foundation for modern psychotherapy, his views on occult sciences were complex and evolved over time. Here’s a brief overview:
Early Interest:
Freud was initially intrigued by occult phenomena, such as hypnotism, telepathy, and clairvoyance. He even conducted experiments on hypnotism and telepathy.
Astrology:
Freud was particularly dismissive of astrology, considering it a form of “superstition” with no scientific basis.
Later Life:
In his later years, Freud’s interest in occult phenomena reemerged, particularly in his book “The Future of an Illusion” (1927). He acknowledged the psychological significance of mystical experiences.
Collaboration with Occultists:
Freud did engage with occultists, such as the psychoanalyst and occultist, Herbert Silberer. Silberer’s work on the symbolism of alchemy and the tarot influenced Freud’s thoughts on symbolism and the collective unconscious.
Influence on Carl Jung:
Freud’s ambivalence toward occult sciences may have influenced his former protégé, Carl Jung, who went on to explore the connections between psychology, alchemy, and mysticism more deeply.
I will like to further discuss some influential psychologists who explored the connection between astrology and psychology;
1. Carl Jung:
Jung, a renowned psychoanalyst, was fascinated by astrology’s symbolic language. He believed that astrological signs and planets represented archetypes, which are universal symbols and images that appear across cultures.
2. Dane Rudhyar:
Rudhyar, a psychologist and astrologer, developed a humanistic approach to astrology. He integrated astrological insights with psychological principles to understand human personality and behavior.
3. Isabel Briggs Myers:
Myers, a psychologist and astrologer, created the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). While not directly based on astrology, Myers drew inspiration from Jung’s work on typology and astrological symbolism.
4. Howard Sasportas:
Sasportas, a psychotherapist and astrologer, explored the intersection of astrology and psychotherapy. He used astrological insights to inform his therapeutic practice and understand clients’ psychological dynamics.
5. Liz Greene:
Greene, a psychologist and astrologer, has written extensively on the connection between astrology and psychology. Her work focuses on the symbolic language of astrology and its application to understanding human psychology and behavior.
These psychologists demonstrate that astrology has been a topic of interest and exploration within the field of psychology, particularly in the realms of symbolism, archetypes, and humanistic psychology.
Here are some therapists who have incorporated tarot into their practice or have written about the therapeutic potential of tarot:
Therapists Who Use Tarot
1. Brian L. Weiss, MD: A psychiatrist and past-life regression therapist, Weiss has written about the use of tarot cards as a tool for self-discovery and healing.
2. James Wanless, PhD: A transpersonal psychologist, Wanless created the Voyager Tarot deck and has written extensively on the therapeutic applications of tarot.
3. Mary K. Greer: A tarot expert and therapist, Greer has written several books on tarot and its use in therapy, including “Tarot for Yourself” and “21 Ways to Read a Tarot Card”.
4. Juliet Sharman-Burke: A psychotherapist and tarot expert, Sharman-Burke has written several books on tarot and its therapeutic applications, including “The Complete Book of Tarot Reversals”.
5. Elinor Greenberg, PhD: A clinical psychologist, Greenberg has written about the use of tarot cards as a tool for self-reflection and personal growth.
Finding Upon Therapeutic Approaches:
The therapists may incorporate tarot into their practice in various ways, such as:
• Using tarot cards as a projective technique to explore clients’ thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
• Helping clients develop self-awareness and introspection through tarot-based exercises and reflections.
• Incorporating tarot symbolism and archetypes into therapy sessions to facilitate deeper understanding and healing.
• Using tarot as a tool for creative expression and imagination, promoting personal growth and empowerment.
Disclaimer:”Keep in mind that while some therapists may incorporate tarot into their practice, it is not a replacement for traditional therapy or treatment.”
My main ifluence upon learning Tarot and Astrology as a Psychotherapist is Carl Jung, because this notable psychologist who wrote to an Indian astrologer is Carl Jung, who corresponded with Sri K. N. Rao, a renowned Indian astrologer.
Jung’s Correspondence with K. N. Rao:
In the 1950s, Jung exchanged letters with Rao, discussing various topics, including astrology, psychology, and Eastern spirituality. Although the exact content of their correspondence is not publicly available, it’s known that Jung was interested in Rao’s expertise on Indian astrology and its connections to psychological insights.
Rao’s Influence on Jung’s Work:
Rao’s work on Indian astrology, particularly his book “Astrology, Destiny, and the Wheel of Time,” is said to have influenced Jung’s thoughts on synchronicity and the collective unconscious.
Other Notable Connections:
Other psychologists, such as Stanislav Grof and Robert Moore, have also explored the connections between astrology, psychology, and spirituality, although it’s unclear if they corresponded directly with Indian astrologers.
my facination with the subject grew as i learnt that Albert Einstein, the renowned physicist, had a complex and nuanced view of astrology.
Einstein’s Views on Astrology:
Einstein’s thoughts on astrology are not straightforward, and his views evolved over time. Here are some key points:
1. Interest in mysticism: As Einstein delved deeper into the mysteries of the universe, he developed an interest in mysticism and the occult. This led him to explore various spiritual traditions, including astrology.
2. Correspondence with astrologers: Einstein exchanged letters with several astrologers, including the famous astrologer, Sepharial (Richard James Morrison). These correspondences reveal Einstein’s curiosity about astrology and its potential connections to physics.
Quotes and Statements:
Some quotes and statements from Einstein provide insight into his views on astrology:
• “The astrologer is like a physicist who wants to describe the motion of a car without considering the driver.” (From a letter to Sepharial, 1915)
• “I have never been able to understand why the astrologers do not make use of the most modern and accurate astronomical data.” (From an interview with the New York Times, 1931)
Einstein’s engagement with astrology highlights the ongoing fascination with the mysteries of the universe and the human experience.
Several scientists throughout the history have believed in astrology or explored its connections to their scientific work.
Ancient and Medieval Scientists:
1. Ptolemy (c. 90-168 CE): A Greek mathematician, astronomer, and geographer, Ptolemy wrote the influential book “Tetrabiblos,” which laid the foundations for Western astrology.
2. Galileo Galilei (1564-1642): While Galileo is famous for his contributions to modern astronomy, he also cast horoscopes for his patrons and believed in the influence of celestial bodies on human affairs.
3. Johannes Kepler (1571-1630): A German mathematician and astronomer, Kepler believed in the concept of “harmony of the spheres,” which posited that the positions of celestial bodies influenced human affairs.
Modern Scientists:
1. Isaac Newton (1643-1727): While Newton is renowned for his laws of motion and universal gravitation, he also wrote extensively on alchemy and astrology, believing that the positions of celestial bodies influenced human affairs.
2. William James (1842-1910): An American philosopher and psychologist, James was interested in the connections between psychology, philosophy, and spirituality, including astrology.
3. Carl Jung (1875-1961): A Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, Jung explored the symbolism and archetypes present in astrology, viewing it as a tool for personal growth and self-discovery.
Contemporary Scientists:
1. Brian Josephson (1940-present): A British physicist and Nobel laureate, Josephson has expressed interest in the connections between physics, consciousness, and spirituality, including astrology.
2. Roger Nelson (1946-present): An American psychologist and researcher, Nelson has explored the connections between astrology, consciousness, and collective behavior.
These examples illustrate that many scientists throughout history have been interested in astrology, often exploring its connections to their scientific work or personal philosophical and spiritual beliefs.
Tarot and psychology have a fascinating connection. Here are some key aspects that have facinated me and i follow:
Tarot as a Projective Technique:
1. Symbolic language: Tarot cards use symbolic language, which can tap into the unconscious mind, revealing hidden thoughts, feelings, and motivations.
2. Projection: Clients project their own meanings and associations onto the tarot cards, allowing therapists to gain insight into their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious:
1. Carl Jung’s influence: Carl Jung’s concept of the collective unconscious and archetypes is closely tied to tarot symbolism. Tarot cards often represent universal archetypes, such as the Mother, Father, or Trickster.
2. Universal symbols: Tarot cards use universal symbols, making them accessible and relatable across cultures and time.
Therapeutic Applications:
1. Self-discovery: Tarot can facilitate self-discovery, helping clients gain insight into their values, goals, and motivations.
2. Emotional expression: Tarot can provide a safe space for clients to express and process their emotions.
3. Narrative therapy: Tarot can be used to create a narrative, helping clients reframe their experiences and gain new perspectives.
4. Mindfulness: Tarot can promote mindfulness, encouraging clients to be present in the moment and aware of their thoughts and feelings.
Key Tarot Concepts in Psychology:
1. The Hero’s Journey: The Major Arcana of the tarot deck represents the stages of the Hero’s Journey, a concept developed by Joseph Campbell.
2. Shadow work: Tarot can help clients confront and integrate their shadow selves, a concept introduced by Carl Jung.
3. Persona and identity: Tarot can explore the tension between the persona (social mask) and the true self.
Training and Certification:
1. Tarot certification programs: Several organizations offer tarot certification programs for therapists and counselors.
2. Continuing education: Therapists can pursue continuing education courses and workshops to integrate tarot into their practice.
Resources:
1. Books: “Tarot for Yourself” by Mary K. Greer, “The Tarot Bible” by Sarah Bartlett
2. Online courses: Tarot certification programs, online workshops, and webinars
3. Professional organizations: International Tarot Foundation, Tarot Guild
I would like to share a comprehensive guide on how to use tarot as a psychotherapist:
Preparation:
1. Familiarize yourself with tarot: Study the symbolism, imagery, and meanings associated with each card.
2. Choose a deck: Select a tarot deck that resonates with you and your therapeutic approach.
3. Set clear boundaries: Establish a clear understanding with clients about the use of tarot in therapy.
Integrating Tarot into Therapy:
1. Assessment and goal-setting: Use tarot to help clients identify patterns, themes, and areas for growth.
2. Exploring the unconscious: Utilize tarot to tap into clients’ subconscious thoughts, emotions, and desires.
3. Reframing perspectives: Help clients reframe negative thought patterns and gain new insights using tarot imagery.
4. Developing coping strategies: Use tarot to identify healthy coping mechanisms and strategies for managing stress and adversity.
5. Fostering self-awareness: Encourage clients to reflect on their values, strengths, and weaknesses using tarot as a tool.
Tarot Techniques for Therapists:
1. Card selection: Ask clients to select cards that resonate with their current situation or question.
2. Card interpretation: Provide clients with your interpretation of the selected cards, exploring their symbolism and relevance to the client’s life.
3. Storytelling: Use tarot cards as prompts for clients to tell their stories, exploring themes, patterns, and emotions.
4. Journaling: Encourage clients to reflect on their tarot experience through journaling, exploring insights and connections.
5. Mindfulness exercises: Incorporate tarot into mindfulness exercises, such as meditation or deep breathing, to
Training and Certification:
1. Tarot certification programs: Pursue certification programs, such as those offered by the Tarot Guild or the International Tarot Foundation.
2. Workshops and conferences: Attend workshops and conferences on tarot and therapy to enhance your skills and knowledge.
3. Supervision and mentorship: Seek supervision and mentorship from experienced therapists who have integrated tarot into their practice.
By incorporating tarot into your therapeutic practice, you can provide clients with a unique and powerful tool for self-discovery, growth, and transformation.
Tarot can be a useful tool for gaining insights and perspectives, but it’s essential to note that tarot readings should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or psychological diagnosis. That being said, here are some areas where tarot can provide valuable insights:
Emotional and Psychological Insights:
1. Emotional blockages: Tarot can help identify underlying emotional patterns, fears, and anxieties that may be contributing to emotional blockages.
2. Personality traits: Tarot can provide insights into personality traits, strengths, and weaknesses, helping individuals better understand themselves and their behaviors.
3. Relationship dynamics: Tarot can offer perspectives on relationship patterns, conflicts, and areas for improvement.
Life Themes and Transitions:
1. Life purpose and meaning: Tarot can help individuals explore their life purpose, passions, and values.
2. Career and life transitions: Tarot can provide guidance on career changes, life transitions, and navigating uncertainty.
3. Spiritual growth and development: Tarot can offer insights into spiritual growth, helping individuals connect with their inner selves and higher power.
Shadow Work and Inner Conflict:
1. Shadow aspects: Tarot can help individuals confront and integrate their shadow aspects, leading to greater self-awareness and personal growth.
2. Inner conflict: Tarot can provide perspectives on inner conflicts, helping individuals resolve internal struggles and make more informed decisions.
Spiritual and Energetic Insights:
1. Energetic blockages: Tarot can help identify energetic blockages, imbalances, or areas of stagnation.
2. Spiritual guidance: Tarot can offer guidance on spiritual practices, helping individuals connect with their inner selves and higher power.
By keeping these notes in mind, tarot can be a valuable tool for personal growth, self-awareness, and spiritual exploration.
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