Why Astrology Informed Therapy?

The world is full of people grappling with existential questions of meaning, purpose, and connection. Many seek solace through a deepening of self-understanding that differing philosophies provide. Taking many forms, these avenues span aeons and vary across the globe. The author wholeheartedly believes in the value offered by traditional, or in some instances, empirically substantiated therapy, especially for addressing challenging psychological quandaries. Some (including the author) find a deeper resonance when utilising approaches incorporating symbolic systems (like astrology, tarot or dream analysis), all of which can be incorporated into AIT.

Why not just see a regular therapist?

Traditional therapy often addresses specific symptoms, identifies behavioural patterns, and promotes healthier coping mechanisms. While undeniably valuable, it can often lack a particular existential dimension (often depending on the skill or orientation of the therapist). Sometimes, conventional therapy can fail to address the more profound questions we are sometimes stricken by, ‘What does this all mean?’ or ‘Why am I really here?’ These are the very questions that have plagued humanity since the dawn of consciousness, and it is here that the symbolic language of astrology can offer a unique perspective.

Unlike traditional therapy, which often focuses on the individual’s personal history and experiences, astrology-informed therapy connects the individual to a larger cosmic narrative. It suggests that we are not isolated beings but part of a larger interconnected web of consciousness and existence. This can be profoundly comforting and empowering, especially during times of uncertainty or transition.

Carl Jung

As Carl Jung observed, astrology offers a rich tapestry of archetypes—universal patterns of human experience—represented by planets and zodiac signs. These archetypes, residing in the collective consciousness, resonate deeply with our shared human experience. They provide a framework for understanding our strengths, weaknesses, and potential pathways for growth.

Or Existential Philosophy

Existentialist philosophy further emphasises the human search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless universe. The awareness of our freedom, responsibility, and the inevitability of death can lead to profound anxiety and a sense of absurdity. Astrology, with its symbolic language and focus on the individual’s unique journey, can provide a sense of context and meaning within this existential landscape.

Just as myths and stories have served as guiding narratives for generations, astrology offers a symbolic story of our lives, reflecting our inherent potential and the challenges we may face. It offers a language for understanding the deeper currents flowing beneath the surface of our conscious awareness.

Synchronicities

It wouldn’t be Astrology Informed Therapy without contemplating the concept of ‘meaningful coincidences’, that Jung referred to as “synchronicities”, because synchronicities or meaningful coincidences often coincide with astrological transits (the movements of the heavenly bodies, making mathematical angular relationships to those within our birth chart). Often, it is during times of difficult transits (or in the aftermath, where we’re left picking up the pieces) that insight into these synchronicities can offer a sense of validation and confirmation that we are on the right path after all.

Therefore, Astrology Informed Therapy offers a unique blend of psychological and symbolic insights. It provides a framework for addressing existential questions, connecting with archetypal patterns, and finding deeper meaning in our lives. While traditional therapy remains a valuable tool, AIT offers a complementary approach for those seeking a more holistic and spiritually grounded path to self-discovery. It is important to note that it should not be considered a substitute for professional mental health care, but rather a complementary approach for meaning, self-discovery, insight and healing.

Why not just see an astrologer?

Through the decades of working astrologically with clients, I’ve observed how the interpretations given by astrologers seem to have more impact and are not easily forgotten. Unbeknownst to the jobbing astrologer, their words have immeasurable power. Here’s why…

Clients often grant astrologers an almost sacred authority. Such as that of a priest, or as the Tarot card The Hierophant depicts, the astrologer can sometimes be imbued as a ‘bridge’ between the divine realm and our earthbound experience, in unwittingly taking on this projection, an astrologer’s interpretations or forewarnings can become enshrined with enormous power, capable of shaping a client’s reality.

On the one hand – An Ethical Dilemma

This raises a critical ethical question: Should an astrologer ever forewarn of doom? I would argue, unequivocally, no. Simply declaring a negative fate is a misuse of power and is irresponsible, especially when viewed psychologically. Consider the self-fulfilling prophecy—how deeply held beliefs (especially ones formed when attached to an arguably esoteric cosmic system), once planted, can unconsciously guide our actions toward their predicted outcome. Equally, should an astrologer predict good fortune, who wouldn’t be tempted to kick back, relax and sit idly in waiting for lady luck to descend gracefully upon him? What of our human agency?

See, our birth chart is like a map, in that it is a static representation of the stars at the moment of birth, with symbolic meaning attached; it is not the territory of life itself which is dynamic and crosses many thresholds of new awareness, therefore the meanings change depending on the stage of the client’s journey. Crucially, the birth chart is subject to the astrologer’s interpretation (more on that later). Common wisdom suggests one ought not judge a book by its cover, lest ye delude oneself into believing you’ve mastered its plot. All too often, astrologers are tempted to read the chart as a static object of divination. Yet, clients’ lives and their respective consciousness are subject to the ever-spinning wheel of evolution, ever-evolving, and rewriting the narrative.

These reasons underscore why I’ve been compelled to develop a more ethical and arguably exciting framework for utilising astrology. It’s about harnessing astrology’s immense potential while understanding the astrologer’s place within the client’s journey.

A Cautionary Tale

I am reminded of an old astrological fable:

…A king, anxious about his fate, sought out the noblest of astrologers. “Tell me,” he demanded, “When shall I die?” After careful calculations, the astrologer forewarned, “You have only three years, Your Majesty.” Displeased with this grim fortune, the King then asked, “And when shall you meet your fate?” The astrologer confidently replied, “Me? Your Majesty, I shall die an old man.” Without hesitation, the King ordered his guards to take his head, and the astrologer was dead before sundown…

This tale, while humorous, is a potent reminder that astrologers, like all humans, operate within the confines of their own understanding and level of consciousness. Their unique interpretation is always filtered through their own experience and state at the time of delivery. Deifying the astrologer can, therefore, be deeply disempowering and problematic for the client. Even if they assume, “It’s only a bit of fun.”

On the other hand…

So while the astrologer’s interpretations are impactful and sometimes hard to shake (for good or ill), as the client’s circumstances and consciousness evolve over time, they must return when encountering a new situation or hold onto outdated information. Astrology alone does not offer a means by which the client can embody the deeper meaning behind the astrologer’s interpretation. While astrology provides remarkable illumination and meaning, often cutting to the heart of the issue, it becomes far more beneficial when used as a framework for mapping out the psyche and exploring that overall, allowing the client to embark on their own journey of discovery and giving them the tools to identify their strengths and weaknesses and how these are working within the psyche.

Therefore, Astrology-Informed Therapy (AIT) is about applying psychologically informed therapeutic principles and skills while being ethical and responsible and incorporating the illuminating guiding framework of astrology. In validating each person’s unique experience, the client brings their chart to life, embellishing it with their unique vantage point. There are no limits to human potential. AIT facilitates the client in mapping out their psyche (using the astrological frame) and casting a light on their internal world. This collaborative approach becomes richer in detail, meaning, and ultimately, personal power.

A powerful combination

Some might wonder: doesn’t this disrespect psychology? Absolutely not. Quite the contrary. My deep love for psychology and extensive training have helped me hone my insight, illuminating the pitfalls of not combining these powerful disciplines. While psychology is undeniably amazing and transformative, I’m convinced it can be profoundly enhanced through the ethical incorporation of the astrological lens.

This means consciously adopting a therapist’s humanistic interpersonal approach, keeping the client at the centre, offering interpretation and facilitating analysis, never imposing it. The astrological frame serves to provide structure to the internal parts. Just as psychological frameworks guide a therapist in understanding and tailoring treatment, astrology offers a unique lens to deepen that insight, always in service of the client’s journey.