Going Beyond an Astrology Reading to Astrological Counseling

Intro

Rather than approaching an astrology reading as simply delineating the chart by only defining the meaning of every sign, planet, and house, I found the only way to make an astrology consultation useful is by going deeper and bridging into astrological counseling. Previously, I suggested focusing on fewer chart points, but the depth of the session depends on whether an actual flow between the astrologer and the client can be created. Instead of using astrology to define who someone is, the session can serve as a tool for exploring and discovering a client’s life story with shared openness and curiosity.

Why It Matters

Astrology is an ancient wisdom rich in its history and promise, but it is often used to label people and make blanket assumptions, such as "all Capricorns are materialistic" or similar concepts. This is very reductive and diminishes its true value. Astrology helps us see that we are all experiencing something unique, yet at the same time, we are also sharing similar aspects of our experiences.

However, if astrology is used to make blanket labels and assumptions, it actually does a disservice to the field and to society instead of being a force that can expand our awareness.

"Astrology helps us see that we are all experiencing something unique, yet at the same time, we are also sharing similar aspects of our experiences."

Zoom-In

Preparation for a consultation involves adding the chart into LUNA and reviewing the client’s natal chart and any relevant transits or progressions.

The first thing I will do is to observe any key factors that stand out, including any significant planetary configurations, chart patterns, and aspects that are particularly tight and/or strong.

"What I think is the most important thing is to not prepare for a monologue."

If I try to overly direct the session as an astrological counselor, it prevents a genuine flow of communication with the client.

When I first sit down with a client here are some of the questions I will ask:

• “Could you tell me what issues are the most important to you?”
• “What would you like me to focus on?”
• “Are you willing to share some of the personal concerns you have that caused you to seek an astrologer?”

Then I will begin describing key astrological principles and ask the client if this resonates with them and to tell me more about the specific issues they’re concerned with. This part is very important so I can connect the general archetypal patterns that show up in the chart with the very specific matters that the client is dealing with now.

Going Deeper

If I see that the client is desirous of going deeper, which some people are not, I am then able to begin asking new types of questions. Examples of this are to explore any fears, uncertainties, or confusion they may have in their lives. This deeper inquiry can help a person discover the 'Law of One's Being,' a term used by Transpersonal Astrologer Dane Rudhyar. This concept suggests that everyone has a unique purpose or path that aligns with their true nature. Astrology, when used correctly, can help individuals understand this deeper essence and live in harmony with it.

This is where a person can begin to become more conscious and aware of being who they want to be deep inside. This needs to be validated and as astrologers we can help them do that. When the client is validated, they will feel safer and then more willing to share their feelings.

What is crucial is that we not try to make definitive predictions but help the client explore potentials and possibilities. This distinction helps shift the focus from a deterministic view to one that empowers the client to make their own choices.

Every astrological chart reflects a spectrum of possibilities which are, of course, influenced by various factors in their environment. By doing this, they might discover where they actually have free will, allowing them to grow personally and handle their external circumstances in an optimal way. By doing this, we can help clients see their charts as dynamic maps of potential, offering guidance rather than rigid definitions.

There is another, perhaps more spiritual aspect to this kind of process. Astrology itself is a reminder that life is both unique and mysterious. It can even lead to an experience of awe and a sense that one’s life can be magickal. This perspective helps clients to approach the unknown with a sense of curiosity and openness rather than fear.

Bottom Line

Moving readings toward deeper client engagement means using astrology to reveal a client's archetypal patterns. Instead of focusing on labels, astrological insights guide clients through their unique journeys, fostering self-understanding and growth. The client's chart should not be seen as limiting their potential. Shifting to a counseling mindset enables us to help clients navigate challenges with clarity and purpose, making sessions more dynamic, collaborative and transformative.