Ritual has long been a powerful tool for mystic and esoteric practitioners. Coupled with the unconscious, it is a force to be reckoned with. But how does it play out in suffering such as grief? And is ritual a one size fits all? Listen to what two psychotherapists also magicians, say on the matter. And pay attention to what they suggest to their colleagues who wish to work with spiritual seekers.

This story will resonate with some who entered a magical group with hopes and good intentions. Something went wrong. Very wrong. Cohost Ashley Tanzosh shares a story of pain and healing. Like you, she joined a magical group only to eventually see things rupture. Learn how this magician and therapist managed to pick up the pieces, used her personal voice, and found adequate help. And the tips she gives her colleagues is a must to listen to.

The word "Witch" is a broad term that makes it difficult to pinpoint just what it means. Unfortunately, it has been demonized to the point where many--mothers, fathers, grandparents, sons, and daughters--have lost their lives. In some instances, just being suspected of associating with the term has led to death. This episode encourages both the public and the therapist to study its history and investigate their hearts and minds, because by doing so fairness and clarity can surface. And the witch is given some tips on how to handle the question, "Are you a witch?" This episode says it is time to bridge the gap!

Often when working with spirit or energy, the task seems a bit at arms distance. More like prayer to a deity far away. This Podcast takes the subject to a more intimate level. Calling on spirit to draw close is a serious task not for everyone. So please use discretion and guidance. As one would expect, developing relationships with another dimension involves what you would want in everyday life and relationships--start slow, have mutual. respect, and become more intimate as one feels safe. The same holds true when working with spirit. Join me as I share some personal thoughts in my work with "Other".

Energy work is popular. Colorful, too. So why does it feel like just another subject with little to offer when it comes to changing the world we live in? Here in this first of a two part series on "Ancient Arts for a Modern World", I share several reasons for the hindrance, beginning with the grand daddy of them all. But I don't stop there. I go on to give you tips on how to cultivate  a greater awareness of energy that supply some reward.

We'd like to believe that spiritual transformation is a glowing experience. However, that is far from what many who walk in a variety of spiritual paths share. By adjusting our hidden expectations and goals as spiritual seekers, we can embrace even those moderate and transient 'negative' experiences that come with our dedicated walk. And if you're a therapist seeking to help the mystic, magician, or solitary practitioner, there's a suggestion or two in this episode.

Here in the west, dissociation is pathological and understood as coming from one or more traumatic events. But is it always? And what do we make of dissociative practices in spiritual traditions all around the world that use such formulas for transformational experiences? This podcast tries to tackle a big topic with the hopes of encouraging researchers to explore with open mind reports of dissociation in various spiritual traditions. The podcast contains the opinions of the host and do not constitute a basis for the listener to make any mental health decision. And now, enjoy!

Who are we, really? What is our essence? Our perceptions limit who we are and fight to keeps there. Yet through meditation and other ancient skills we can become the Observer and avoid getting highjacked from our limited definitions of ourselves.