The Changing Landscape Of Astrological Counseling
by Jon Stevens

Call me old-fashioned, but I remember a time when an astrologer took the time to draw up the complete chart for his client, studied it in advance to see what might be coming up for the individual, and then gave the reading within the context of karma, spirituality, and life purpose. Nowadays, with so many Internet sites devoted to astrology, and paranormal TV programs which stress entertainment over authenticity, the landscape of intuitive personal consultation has changed. A person genuinely seeking help may have a difficult time telling the difference between really good readers and those with good marketing ploys. I suspect that many seekers become so distraught over the matter as to do nothing at all.

A clear benefit for any astrologer is alignment with an established tradition of quality chart readers. Astrologers Carroll Righter and Sydney Omarr have been among my mentors. I learned from these and other great intuitive readers many secrets of chart interpretation. These, combined with my own experience of over thirty years as a counselor, have given me the confidence to know I can help clients with what is going on in their lives, not in a judgemental way, but in a way that is appropriate to their circumstances.

An intuitive astrologer can make all the difference, especially if you are currently coping with problems and issues. A good reading does not dictate what you will do, think or feel, but rather helps you to make decisions on your own by offering real insight into your current circumstances. It should help you to either confirm feelings you already have, or help you to establish your own "inner knowing" about issues you may be facing. This kind of reassurance can be very empowering, boosting you to new levels of awareness and understanding.

A reading should be an event—an experience you'll remember for years to come. A good reader speaks to your heart's desire and helps bring you peace of mind concerning your present and future circumstances. Even if there are stressful influences coming up in your future, they should be viewed as positive, possibly bringing needed challenge or motivation into your life so that you can move on to the next step.

A reader should be prepared to provide a certain level of commitment and personal attention. A good advisor takes the time to get a better understanding of your journey and to help you make appropriate choices according to your life path.