SHAMANIC COUNSELING FOR INDIVIDUALS
Shamanic Counseling is an approach to helping people which bridges the ancient with the modern. It is not practiced by actual shamans, but is inspired by them. Shamanism dates back tens of thousands of years to a time when we were hunters and gatherers, and our consciousness was imbedded in an all-natural landscape of abundant animals, plants, and minerals against the backdrop of a living planet. These were our original “object-relations” in the world; and our language, knowledge, and wisdom initially evolved around identifying and classifying these naturally emergent entities and objects. The healers were the ones that understood the healing properties of many of these plants and minerals, and among these healers were the shamans who served as counselors and priests for their community. Shamans have several tools in their shamanic tool kit: drumming, chanting, singing, dancing, as well as the use of medicinal plants and herbs.
A Shamanic Counselor utilizes many of the same tools, but does so in a modern context of science and research. Shamanic Counselors do not presume to be shamans, but are experienced in and inspired by the kind of explorations and healing that they represent. We can assist and accompany you on journeys through your own inner landscapes, and in the process give you the space where you may heal old wounds, receive insights and visions, connect to something bigger than yourself, and perhaps even develop a stronger sense of purpose for your life. Belief in a “spirit realm” is not necessary for you to receive the benefits of shamanic counseling. Your attitudes and intentions are highly relevant however, especially if you open your heart and mind to the process and allow yourself to face your fears, anxieties, and what Carl Jung called the Shadow of your Persona.