“I favour a depth approach to astrology; one that is embedded into daily life and that honors the soul in all its complexity…
Cheska Whelan:
Experiential Astrology initiated me into the rich world of the Astrological model. It took place around the dining table of a Tibetan Buddhist retreat centre in Northern India “Twilight,” a New York astrologer led a small group on a guided journey relating to the elements. It was a magical experience heightened by the exotic environment and her offbeat New York humour. Several months later living amongst the dismal grey skies and heavily concreted area of North London I came across a course advertised as ‘Intuitive Astrology’.
In the first lesson the tutor took us on an imaginal journey into the world of the elements. We imagined a dry, baked earth – a world absent of water; a colourless, sunless world – an absence of fire; a chaotic formless world – an absence of earth; a still and an unmoving universe – an absence of air. In this one exercise, which I can easily call to mind after thirty years, I was able to intuitively sense the gift and the essence of each element.
These first couple of encounters with Astrology involved learning its language in an imaginal and experiential fashion, these experiences taught me the value of participatory and creative methods of learning and unfolding that are in keeping with the symbolic language that is Astrology. I continued my studies at the School of Astrological Psychology in London, and loved the depth, intelligence and thoroughness of their approach. Subsequently I completed a four year training at the School of Astrosynthesis in Melbourne.
As I began to work with people I soon discovered a rub between the usual approach of one off “readings” and my own and others experience of how growth, unfolding or understanding occurs.
To support my leanings towards a depth therapeutic approach I completed a 2 year training with the Kairos School of Psychotherapy in Melbourne in Soulful Presence Counselling. During my time in Melbourne I worked as a Social worker with people facing challenges with mental health, addiction, homelessness and chronic ill health.
Writers and Schools of thought that inspire me are….
- Jungian
- Psychosynthesis
- Marsilio Ficino
- Thomas Moore
- James Hillman
- Clarissa Este Pinkolas
My clients say…
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The sessions I had with Cheska were always very insightful, and helped me gain clarity and thus understanding around the themes and issues I was facing in my life. There would often be unexpected insights that were always uncannily accurate in relation to myself.
As a result I would leave the session with a sense of the load being lifted and amazement at the ‘magic’ of astrology. How could so much be revealed that seemed so accurate to my personality and my life challenges? Working with Cheska lifted my spirits, gave clarity to challenges in my life,and strengthened my ability to determine direction and purpose in my life.
Charlotte Blick
Early Intervention Teacher -
Cheska has really helped me understand my emotional and psychological processes, thus facilitating me to change. She did that by applying all her knowledge of counselling and astrology, as well as by being an authentic, warm human being who accepts totally where the client is at.
She has a real sense of the client’s journey, and her interventions are well timed, thoughtful and go deep, without overwhelming. I have seen many therapists and alternative practitioners in my time, and can only say Cheska is special in helping people to understand themselves.
Nick Karr
Psychotherapist -
Being a practical Capricorn, I appreciate Cheska’s interpretation style of referencing the horoscope to what’s current in my life. I come away with my vision broadened and my understanding deepened of what’s going on for me right now, inside and in the outer world.
Cheska’s depth of insight into the human condition, her vast knowledge of astrology and her eloquence in explaining the patterns and dynamics she sees always impresses and leave me inspired. I would highly recommend her expertise to anyone wanting to understand their own journey more deeply.
Annette Kampen
Homeopath -
I would like to recommend Cheska as a window into your soul and what makes us tick. I learnt a lot about myself and where my lessons to learn were thru the birthchart. It was inspiring and deep reaching. It helped me learn to understand myself and accept myself more. Thanks Cheska.
Cate Murphy
Tattoo Artist -
Amazing astrological counselling. Cheska combines a lifetime of astrological knowledge with deep interest and listening. I have seen therapists, counsellors, and healers of all kinds over the past 40 years but she sees, hears, and reflects with unparalleled skill. Now I stay in touch for a consult several times a year and its as worthwhile every time.
Barbara Newby
Counsellor