An Introduction To Transformative Tarot Counseling – The High Art Of Reading

Author: Katrina Wynne, M.A.

Editors: Jaymi Elford, Thomas Martin Anderson

Sacred Rose Publishing (KDP)

2022 (First Edition copyright 2012)

ISBN #978-8-411823-79-0

“Transformative Tarot Counseling” is a small book (80 pages) that carries a big wallop! In her preface, Wynne suggests that the real message in the Tarot is in the reader’s relationship with it. She presents an interesting thought in that the Tarot can be studied for its wisdom, or through the experience of working with the cards.

Wynne notes that the highly developed and interactive skills that are presented in this book can be applied by Tarot consultants to their readings. There is also a suggestion that the process used her can be applied to readings with other metaphysical modalities, such as astrology, palmistry, numerology, and oracles, to name a few.

The definition of Transformative Tarot Counseling is the high art of reading cards for yourself or others. “Transformative” is defined as allowing change to occur. “Counseling” is defined as interacting with others in an affirmative and supporting manner. The skills used here respect the client’s wisdom and boundaries.

Wynne mentions something that is familiar to all Tarot readers, and that is that clients often present old patterns in their lives. She notes that in the Tarot transformation comes through symbols, dynamic archetypes of change, and the journey itself, which she terms the Sacred Journey of the Soul. In this section, we also learn a bit about Israel Regardie’s definition of the four basic stages of magic, and how they appear in a reading.

Other work that is referenced includes psychologist Carl Jung’s exploration of the magic in the Tarot. Here we see the concept of the Tarot having its origin in the collective unconscious and expanding into the areas of individuation and the shadow.

Separate chapters are present on counseling skills, ethics, and responsibilities for readers. Sample readings are presented, with key concepts noted.

At the end of the book, there is a bibliography and a listing of resources.

I highly recommend this book for beginners and for those that have already started on their Tarot path. The information here helps the student set a strong foundation for the work they wish to do.

© February 2022 Bonnie Cehovet

Reproduction is forbidden without written permission from the author.