T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 1

THE CAREER ASTROLOGER The Newsletter for Professional Astrology

Volume 20 � Number 4 � Winter 2012

appy New Year! With Pluto seatedin Capricorn, and Uranus settled

into Aries, we should be approaching theend of the beginning of the dynamic and tu-multuous events of the last two years. Hold-ing promise for much needed shifts acrossthe globe, 2012, too, will be exciting. Ide-ally, these changes will benefit the many,not just the few. Our global community hasa mountain to climb, and we’ll do it by bothsteps and leaps. Meanwhile, make the mostof the adventure. As astrologers, we havethe special gift of seeing life through thelens of cycles and phases. Our role is toshare and spread the wealth of our collective wisdom!

Last November’s an-nual retreat in Myrtle Beach, South Car-olina was OPA’s most successful to date!While enhancing our skills, plenty of funwas had by all. Thanks to the gifted leader-ship of our exceptional faculty, OPA’s peergroup work continues to attain new heights.The facility and food were wonderful andthe beach was such a treat. We plan to re-turn to the Ocean Creek Resort for ournext retreat March 21st - 24th 2013. Mark your calendars now!This coming May, at the UAC confer-ence in New Orleans, OPA will host an allday program.On Wednesday, May 23,2012 we will spend the morning givingshort talks, followed by our trademark peergroup work in the afternoon. We will alsoshare information about OPA’s ground-breaking certification program.

Speaking of the certification program, weare very pleased to announce that we havegraduated our first class of OPA CertifiedAstrologers, seven in all.More astrologersare now in training and are on their way!This is an excellent and comprehensive pro-gram for anyone seeking to become a certi-fied professional astrologer.

OPA’s mission is to nurture and supportastrologers in their professional practices, toexpand the perspective of its members andraise the consciousness of the planet. It is aprivilege to a part of the OPA family!Wishing you all the best for a healthy,

peaceful and prosperous 2012! �

I N T H I S I S S U E

President’s Report ..............................1

OPA Writer’s Workshop:

An Arlan Wise Creation ......................1

Flowing in Neptune’s Waters..........3

OPA Book Reviews ..............................4

The OPA Retreat in Pictures! ........6

Five Elements ....................................10

Behavioral Guidelines for

Astrological Sessions ..................12

Our Next Retreat ..........................14

HT H E P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T

BY ALEXANDRA KARACOSTAS

[CONTINUED ON PAGE 2]

BY RICHARDSMOOT

S top! Whogoes there? A writer? You

have come forward to have yourastrological article printed. I am thePublisher. Do you know the password?

Silly opening isn’t it. Actually, you arethe one who holds the power to bepublished, not me. It’s your good writingstyle that will open doors and give you afront row seat.

An introduction is in order. I am thepublisher for the journal of theInternational Society for AstrologicalResearch. ISAR receives over twentyastrological articles every three to fourmonths. Each article has an author,possibly you, wanting to get your messageout. In print, your astrological peers canread, understand and learn from yourwork.

Now let us watch the ISAR Publishersquirm and turn. Welcome, Richard, toArlan Wise’s Writers’ Workshop at theOPA retreat at Ocean Creek Resort.

is dedicated to promoting excellence for astrologers. Incorporated on

October 4, 2000 at 1:45 pm EDT inTallahassee, Florida, OPA provides members

with tools to establish or improve theirastrological practice. Membership is open toaspiring and current astrologers. Benefits

include subscription to the Career Astrologerand E-news, and members registration fees

at OPA retreats and conferences. Annual dues are $60.00.

OPA BOARD

PRESIDENTAlexandra Karacostas

alexandrakaracostas@yahoo.com

VICE PRESIDENT/CONFERENCE COORDINATOR

Arlan Wise508-645-9292

arlanw@vineyard.net

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARYChristine Ferraro

267-918-5242christineferraro.opamembership@gmail.com

SECRETARY Sandra Leigh Serio

303-604-2777sandraleigh@sandraleigh.com

TREASURERAlice Kashuba954-894-8685

alice@kashuba.com

DIRECTOR OF PUBLICATIONS & PROJECTS &

E-NEWS DIRECTORBob Mulligan239-261-2840

BOBMULLIGA@aol.com

COMMUNITY OUTREACH DIRECTORMaurice Fernandez

808-965-1217majorsky@earthlink.net

CHAIR, CONFERENCE COMMITTEEGeri Bellino303-501-5212

geri.bellino@gmail.com

E-NEWS EDITORDvora Weil

818-448-9495dvora@charter.net

THE CAREER ASTROLOGER EDITORTwink McKenney

203-267-4986mrmckenney@att.net

OPAastrology.com

[CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1]

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 2

Like astrology, there is no real magic in awell written article; it is simply goodwriting. “Simply good writing” is perhaps amisnomer. There is nothing really “simple”about writing well, yet it is the ticket foradmission for your publisher, editor, andyour peers. A well written article capturesyour readers mind, their senses, and theirimagination. You will have a future captiveaudience of those who love your articles.

The first thing I learned in the workshopis that discipline is your friend, perhaps likeSaturn and your editor, are your friends. Ittakes time, consistent practice, patience,will and determination devoted to writing.Discipline is not “an acquired taste” nor isyour editor a barrier to your work. Youreditor is on your side. Maintain thediscipline of writing every day. Even thedetails are important; find a place whereyou can write, your own special place wherethe external world cannot penetrate yourwriter’s world.

The Writer’s Workshop experience isamazing. “Amazing how,” you ask. Afterfour earthly rotations, myself and the othercomrades in the workshop have beenpushed, pulled, stretched and compressedto tease out the style, qualities andattributes in good writing.

While Arlan may appear to be ataskmaster with her galley of pupil slaves,Arlan is a kind, gentle and patient writingcoach. Dispensing rules from Strunk andWhite; reading passages from StevenKing’s On Writing; or Nancy Aronie’sWriter’s Mantra, Arlan guides like a skilledsculptor. Her assignments (homeworkrequired) are varied; both astrological andnon-astrological; Japanese Haiku’s for eachplanet in our chart springs to mind.

So what is the magic, besides disciplineand having your own special place?

1. Speak from an active voice, not passive.

2. Be wary of adverbs; be succinct and to thepoint.

3. “That” is better usage than “which.” Knowthe context and their differences.

4. Use all your senses: touch, taste, smell,hearing and seeing.

The Writer’s Mantra from Writing From the Heart by Nancy Aronie sets theintention:

I’m a great writer

I have great courage to write.

This is my practice and I honor it.

All the furniture in this house, everyspider on these walls, each vegetable inthat refrigerator, is so lucky to be hearingthese brilliant thoughts of mine.

Oh yes, a book list is always in fashion:

On WritingSteven King

The Elements of StyleWilliam Strunk and E.B. White

The Well-Tempered SentenceKaren Elizabeth Gordon

Writing from the HeartNancy Aronie

Writing Down the BonesNatalie Goldberg

The Rulership BookRex E. Bills

Astrological KeywordsManly P. Hall

Book of RulershipsLee Lehman, Ph.d.

Astrological GardeningLouise Riotte

Coining ourselves the “Maven Writer’sGroup,” I give my heartfelt appreciation tomy fellow students for sharing their workand supporting this publisher’s writing at-tempts. My gratitude abounds, Arlan, for allyour enchanting, guidance as I struggled(quite frequently, I will add.) You set the mi-lieu, structure and delivery of your workshop.I strongly recommend Arlan’s writing work-shop to develop your writing style. A stylethat will grab, inspire and captivate yourreaders. �

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 3

Arecent article, “Astrological Con-sultant and Psychotherapist”, inThe Career Astrologer de-

scribed my practice as both a consulting as-trologer and a licensed psychotherapist. Ihave combined both professions for manyyears in a modest, but thriving, business.Waking up each morning I still am excitedto be in this combined profession. So whenas an astrologer I noted that transiting Nep-tune would be going over my Mid Heaveninto the tenth house of career and profes-sion, I paused to consider the implications.

What do we really know about Neptune?Neptune was discovered in 1846 and hadthe first discovery return in 2009-2010. Thetruth is that 163 years is not a very long pe-riod to get to know the true nature of theenergy put forth by a planet. What we doknow is that Neptune transits seem to cre-ate confusion, illusion, inflation, deceit, anduncertainly. On a positive, note spiritual en-lightenment, great service to others, true selfsacrifice for a greater good, and creative in-spiration may emerge.

As an astrological consultant I try to becareful when I have to interpret Neptunianenergies going over a client’s angle orplanet. Interpretation is handled with sensi-tivity, the very nature of the planet. So hereI am, the consultant, having to face my ownNeptunian transit over a major career point.Neptune crossed my Mid Heaven threetimes from March 17, 2010 to January 18,2011, remaining within two degrees of theangle through January 15, 2012.

Given that Neptune is also considered thegreat dissolver, it did cross my mind thatmaybe my career would just disappear. Inthe therapeutic community professionalpractices were folding in these economictimes. And I have Saturn on the Ascendantso I tend to think of the serious conse-quences first.

During this period I began looking deeplywithin myself for any tell-tell signs of anover grown professional ego, which Nep-tunian energy might feel needed an adjust-ment. I realize now that even doing thisprocess is tricky because inflation is everready to make an appearance moving in ei-ther direction—seeing yourself as humble orseeing yourself as more than you are. Eitherquality can call in Neptune’s prick to theego. What I really felt was being called outwas getting to the essence of the next stepin my career. What was I going to give backto the professional community?

I did put out the intent to the NeptunianUniverse that I was willing to serve in what-ever way was needed during the upcomingchanging times on Earth. I always have tosay in addition “give me the eyes to see, theears to hear, and the sense to know what ison the path.” I have been known to be thickheaded and stubborn. How many times dowe ask for guidance, it comes, and then wedon’t follow it?A message kept coming through that I have

ideas and thoughts to relay given severalyears experience combing two professions.Write. Lecture.

I have lectured and I have written articlesand pamphlets in the past, but I do so spo-radically. Like Neptunian energy, my energydissipates. I don’t keep with the program.Doing my own internal work, as any goodtherapist should, I noted that fear of criti-cism, lack of courage, and just plain lazinesscontributed to holding me back. Neptune isabout splitting the veil that hides what wedon’t want to look at.

Also Neptune energy is about inclusive-ness, joining and belonging. I was very for-tunate that my intent and joy for my work,floating on the ethers of the NeptunianUniverse, were picked up by a dear OPAfriend, Sandra Leigh Serio, who surprisedme with an invitation to speak at the Mid-west Astrology Conference in Ohio. (Ohiojust coincidentally happens to be my birthstate.) I first met Sandra Leigh at The Or-ganization for Professional Astrologers.OPA is about inspiring one to be the bestyou can be professionally. Networking con-tacts in OPA can aid in that process as Ihave found out.

From speaking at MAC I got an invita-tion to speak at the State of the Art Confer-ence and then had my application to UACaccepted to speak in New Orleans in 2012.I even received an invitation in the autumnof 2011 to lecture at my own home astrol-ogy group, the Astrological Society of Con-necticut, belying the old adage about a“prophet in his own country.” The topic re-quested by the ASC was --- guess what?“Neptune Moving

BY JACQUELINE JANES

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Mayo Press | ISBN 978-1-903353-27-1 | $18.95

Wendy Stacey has produced an excellent

book, one that is helpful to both the aspir-

ing and long time professional astrologer.

She has written what she knows, always a good thing,

and gives us the basic truths learned through years of practice as a consulting as-

trologer. The book is short yet thorough, practical and mind expanding.

There are other books about creating and maintaining an astrology practice,

but what makes this one different is that Wendy brings the reader up to date on

how to use the tools of the 21st century. She advises the reader how to adapt

one’s work skills to the immediacy of today’s demands. Uranus is in Aries. Clients

are impatient and want instant access to their astrologer and expect relevant as-

trological information as soon as possible. Wendy explains how to use the newest

technology to address these needs. She frees astrologers from the confinement of

the consulting room by pointing out the freedom available in using cell phones

and Skype to meet with clients, especially international ones. She discusses how

to attract clients through the use of websites. Wendy makes it all sound so seam-

less, even to technophobes.

The book is well organized. It begins with a section on how to get started, then in-

structs on practical matters such as fees, keeping records, setting up a consulting

space. There are tips on preparing for and conducting the consultation. There is a

segment on the difficulties that different kinds of clients may bring to the session

and the important issue of ethics. She shares ideas on advertising and marketing.

There is a concise outline of useful astrological techniques. The book ends with an

account of her own experiences as an astrological consultant.

Wendy Stacy lives in England. She is the Chair of the Astrological Association of

Great Britain and Principal of the Mayo School of Astrology. She completed the

Masters of Arts course in Cultural Astronomy and Astrology at Bath Spa University

in England. Wendy has been a practicing consulting astrologer since 1987. She

has great credentials to instruct the reader that have been gained from her ac-

complishments. And, she is a lovely Leo lady.

I highly recommend this book to those who are considering

beginning work as a consulting astrologer and to those who

have been in the field for many years. This short book con-

tains a wealth of information. Everyone can learn something

from reading this book.

Arlan Wise has been a professional consulting astrologer

since 1978. She developed writing workshops for as-

trologers and taught them at OPA’s past three Astrologers’ Retreats.

She will be giving another one at the next retreat in March 2013. Arlan teaches

writing workshops for astrologers around the country. Contact her if you would

like to sponsor one in your town.www.arlanwise.com

into Pisces” Yes, there did seem to be amessage emerging.

The reason I am relaying this story aboutmy experience with a Neptune transit overthe Mid Heaven is that often we get scaredinto believing the worst about an outerplanet transit. Carolyn Casey talks aboutengaging and playing with the energy of theplanet. She suggests one way to do so is rit-ual. Maybe making a statement of intentwith the planet’s energy in mind, like I didabout doing service at this time, works too.Given that Neptune is in my tenth housefor the next twenty years given an inter-cepted sign, I have plenty of time to experi-ence the energies and research the meaning.

My hope and intent is to be as consciousas possible in the process, not deluded orinflated or discouraged, but inspired andcreative. There are words, phrases, tech-niques and client stories and journeys Iwant to share with aspiring astrotherapists.Perhaps one of the new astrotherapistsemerging will improve upon what I’ve beendoing, adding to the body of professionalknowledge.

Something has shifted within me. I havea new feeling free of fear, self-judgmentand hesitation. Old thought patterns, notthe career, were dissolved. Instead I experi-ence joy in what I have to convey. I’vefound when I hold onto that energy of truejoy in giving I’m in sync with Neptune,swimming in his waters and experiencinghis support. �Jacqueline Lindley Janes, MA, LPC is a Certified

Counseling Astrologer, NCGR IV, and was recog-

nized by I.S.A.R. as a Certified Astrological Profes-

sional. She is a licensed professional counselor in

Connecticut. Jacqueline has integrated the astrologi-

cal consultation and astrological tools with psy-

chotherapy. She has mentored astrologers at OPA

Retreats and led workshops in spiritual development.

Additionally she has written articles for OPA’s “Ca-

reer Astrologer” and an OPA pamphlet, “Reframing:

A Counseling Tool for the Consulting Astrologer”.

Flowing in Neptune’s Waters[CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3]

OPA Book Review by Arlan Wise

OPA Book Review

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 5

Published by www.Genoahouse.com

Like all other astrologers, I read new books in our field all the time. Every year

or so one comes along that I recommend to my students. This two volume

set is so important I felt like sharing it with the profes-

sional community through OPA.

The thing that makes these two books so insightful and

useful is that they are born of a wellspring of personal experi-

ence from a very gifted professional astrologer, who is also a

historian. Consequently the material is formulated from both

first hand case histories and from historical biographies. The

descriptions of each sign on the ascendant are easy to read,

accurate, and thorough. But, what makes these works so in-

credibly unique is her understanding of the way that the

Ascendant changes through time. As we age, the pro-

gressed ascendant changes signs, makes aspects, and alters the man-

ner of functioning for the natal characteristics.

The quotes at the front of each chapter, the footnotes, and the bibliography for

each sign give us several avenues to go deeper in our own understanding of mate-

rial. And even through Kathleen Burt is a true scholar (graduate school at the Uni-

versity of Chicago is very demanding) the books are well written and surprisingly

easy to read. Because she is deeply rooted in Jungian psychology, as well as having

an active spiritual practice, the perspective coming from the pages of the book is

helpful and uplifting. Kathleen has joined the ranks of the professional astrologers

who are also yoga instructors.

I recommend these books to every practicing astrologer. I’ve read them over and

over with continuing insight. They are a joy.

Bob Mulligan As an astrologer since 1974, Bob sees clients and operates

THE MASTERY OF ASTROLOGY™ correspondence school. His chart interpretation

program INDRA, his book, “BETWEEN ASTROLOGERS AND CLIENTS” and his free

monthly newsletter all receive praises. Bob is a life member of OPA, NCGR, ISAR,

and AFAN. He has served on the OPA board and is the current head of the OPA

certification program. Bob is a follower Avatar Meher Baba since 1970.

bobmulliga@aol.com; www.theastrologycompany.com.

by Bob Mulligan

Jack Hopkins Haiku

g

a

b

f

l

d

j

Mark your calendar! Plans are already underway for OPA’s next retreat.

March 21-24, 2013 Ocean Creek Resort • Myrtle Beach SC

S

S

Uranus in Cancer – 10th House

My soul must feel freeIt’s the pact I’ve sealed with you

I break all the rules

Sun in Virgo – 12th House

Someone locked the doorI’ll work through the night alone

Yet it’s crowded here

Moon in Gemini – 9th House

Is this making sense?Not to worry, soon it will

I’ve just got a call

Ascendant in Virgo Leo SubPhase

Let the show beginLove and music on parade

Service with a smile

Mercury Retrograde in Virgo – 12th House

Message in a jarSpeaks of something far away

Right inside my head

Venus Retrograde in Virgo – 12th House

Kiss me once againHold me in your arms and say

This will be the last

Saturn in Libra – 1st House

Moving in watch outSteady, steady, almost there

They take me for real

Neptune in Libra – 2nd House Trine MC

Fickle finger flyYou give me the inside out

Cliff hangers galore

Chiron in Sagittarius – 4th House

Black sheep, black sheep singAll the family’s underground

Nothing left but sky

North Node in Pisces – 6th House

Get to work and dreamRescuers and helpless souls

Send them all to me

Jupiter in Aries Retrograde – 7th/8th House

Tough guy neighborhoodWar lords feast on fattened calf

Now I’m one of you

Mars in Leo – 11th House

Magic in the squareBolts of lightning everywhere

My friends see me now

Pluto in Leo – 12th House

I pay you your dueYou do what you always do

Lay my soul to waste

The Writing Mavens Group

Caught within our wordsSpark preserved forever now

Wind to longing heart

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 6

OPA’s 9th Astrologer’s RetreatIn November, fifty four astrologers gathered at the OCean CreekResort Myrtle Beach, South Carolina for OPA’s 9th Retreat. Thisunique event included specialty tracks for financial, psychological,evolutionary and shamanic astrology as well as a track forastrological writing and OPA’s new certification program. Special thanks to our OPA photographer, Robert Corre!

The hardworking

OPA Board!

Lunch with Group Leader, Grace Morris.

Lunch with Group Leader, Maurice Fernandez.

Lunch with Group Leader, Monica Dimino.

Richard, Benjamin and Victoria.

Arlan and Dvora helping out with the silentauction. We raised over $1,600.!

Back: Sandra Leigh Serio, Bob Mulligan, Alexandra Karacostas,Christine Ferraro. Front: Arlan Wise and Geri Bellino.

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A ❥ T h e O r g a n i z a t i o n f o r P r o f e s s i o n a l A s t r o l o g y 7

OPA President, Alexandra Karacostas,

addresses the group.

OPA Conference Coordinator, Geri Bellino and Rebecca Gordon.

Sarah Bromberg-Lin, Monica Dimino, Dianne Adams and Katherine Feuerbach.

Susan Falk , Chris McRae, Monica Dimino,

Geri Bellino and Nancy Beale.

Katie Mulligan is alwaysready to help.

Jack Hopkins was partof the Writing track.

Jacqueline Janes andMaryAnn Davis.

Bob Mulligan, Susan Falkand Arlan Wise.

Susan Stone, AlexandraKaracostas, Dianne Adams,

Sandra-Leigh Serio andSusan Falk.

Steven Stone

Nancy Beale

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R F A L L 2 0 1 1O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 8

The Connecticut contingent....

Glen Perry & Jacqueline Janes.

Dvora gave a thought provoking talk onthe astrology of relationship.

Dinner on our last night together.

Brad and Richard.

Benjamin Bernsteinand Hal Bahr.

Michael Fagan and Benjamin Bernstein.

Sarah and Twink find common ground inastrology and homeopathy.Maurice, Sol Jonassen (wh

o came all the way

from Norway) and Rebecca.

Dinner on our last night together.

Hal Bahr, Anne Phillips, Sandra-Leigh Serio.

Conference coordinator, GeriBellino, did an amazing job!

Susan Falk & Jack Hopkins

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R F A L L 2 0 1 1O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 9

Geri and Michael Fagan.

Nancy, Geri andRandy.

Robert Corre and Alexandra. Victoria Peltz and Richard Smoot.

Dianne Eppler Adamsand Jacqueline Janes.

Benjamin Bernstein’sShamanic Astrology groupJennifer Parde and Randy Teblum.

Chris McRae’s group.

L to R: Claudia Simoes, Victoria Peltz, Chris, Geri Bellino MaryAnne Davis,

Hal Bahr, Anne Phillips and Nancy Beale.

Arlan Wise’s Writing Mavens!

We celebratedtwo Scorpiobirthdays!Grace andMaurice.

Sol Jonasse breaking the iceafter hours with astrogames!

Geri and Arlan checking theresponses.

The first group of OPA-certified astrologers. Congratulations!

Robert, Arlan, Sandra-Leigh, Monica, Susan, Alexandra and Bob.

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 10

Five ElementsBY JACKHOPKINS

Greek PhilosopherEmpedocles ad-vanced the idea

of the four elementsstill used by as-

trologers today. The Chinese, who used thefour cardinal directions in their sky maps,additionally developed the idea of the FiveElements found in the I CHING and Tra-ditional Chinese Medicine. Long time har-monic astrology author, David Hamblin(Spirit of Numbers, The Wessex AstrologerLtd 2011) associates fiveness with creativity.These five elements contrast with the morestructural and static four elements and de-scribe a system of interdependencies andbalances, reflecting the dynamic nature ofthe number five. In the article, we will ex-plore them from a Western perspective,portraying a world in motion, requiring dis-crimination and creative interaction, quitesimilar to the one we face today.

The Fire Element creates awareness and

enthusiasm. It stimulates a bold response tolife, the taking of chances, and pursuit ofpersonal bliss. Fire will waste no time inseizing opportunities it stumbles upon,often with an innate recognition of theirworth and potential in some grand pursuit.Fire illuminates uncertainty and teaches usto see a clear path before us, brightlymarked by its passion for life and change.When unbalanced, ruthless and uncon-cerned, its energy will consume everythingin its path, insatiable in its hunger for ex-citement, relentless in its blind passion.Even when balanced with the other ele-ments, Fire will forge ahead with an in-stinctual sense of urgency that demandsaction and courage.

It is that wild force within us that refusesto follow the usual path, throwing itself intothe most terrible of life’s struggles, creatingunforgettable experiences out of inanimatepotential. It breathes life into the void,transforming it into a blinding display ofprimary intent and will. Without Fire, welose touch with our own magic. We’re re-duced to following shadows, far from theblazing heat of the Sun.

Earth has the job of facing resistance andinertia and so must devise the most efficientway to deliver the desired result, on time,and within budget. Common sense and arealistic assessment of what’s within scopeand what’s off the table make Earth unpop-ular with the other Elements. When thechips are down, Earth often ends up savingthe day, providing the support that everyoneoften forgets. Purity and service rank amongits virtues. Discipline and a brutally no-non-sense approach to getting the job done is itsusual strategy.

Underneath that grimy exterior beats thesoul of patience and often a unselfish devo-tion to bringing divine love into its manylabors. It is the master of the long haul andthe unsung hero. Disillusionment and self-effacement nip at it heals and can do seriousdamage to the effectiveness of its efforts.Freshness and optimism are often in shortsupply, and mindless ambition and conform-ity are always ready to lay its soul to waste.

Should it pass these trials, Earth bringsthe beautiful gift of authentic self respectand acceptance to its ambitions. It can beunassuming and simple, possessing genuineearnestness and unbelievable mastery overdoing the right things well and with love.

Air is highly aware of the socialdimension of life and can’t help but takeother people’s points of view intoconsideration. Both friends and enemiesfigure into this, and Air often becomestangled into some controversy where itsplans unravel and damage control and coverup become the order of the day. At its best,Air is cooperative, humane and socially

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savvy with any arrangement it enters into.The less noble types are fast-talking,insincere and dreadfully out of touch withreality.

A virtual wizard at getting its messageacross, the Airy type loves to be the onetalking and making all the decisions,defining themselves along social andintellectual lines. They are capable oforiginal thought and can introduce wholerevolutions with the power of their words,often adjusting this or that position to gainadditional acceptance and consensus.

Like it or not, Air is an indispensable factof life. While today’s media has become anabsolute feeding frenzy for every politicalpundit and talking head, it is Air that urgesus to reach out and draw people into ourlives, share intimacies, and learn from eachother. It is the most civilized of all theElements, reminding us of our identity associal creatures. Air is at home whenfinding its place in the endless varieties ofhuman exchange, endlessly arguing,forming and reforming alliances.

The true Air type will try all sorts of waysto engage with people, becoming involved,exchanging judgments, promotingcooperation and shared experiences. At itsbest, Air seeks involvement and intimacy.At its worst, it can be deceitful andintolerant, dismissive of authenticrelationships and unwilling to face thetruth. Air needs to make a definite stand onits position, even if it means some peoplemay not agree. Being scrupulously honestand authentic is the high price it must payto earn the freedoms and liberties it oftentalks about.

Water is the most emotional of all theelements and its positive keywords read likethe advertising material for the local spa.Rejuvenating, refreshing, relaxing, and

calming certainly sound inviting, but makeno mistake, Water demands we face ourown inner demons of rage and despair,which is anything but pleasant or calming.Water requires we get in touch with ourtrue feelings and find ways to communicateour needs and wants to other people.

It is highly intuitive energy, often psychic,and able to tap into deep levels ofunconsciousness and intuition. Waterdemands that we rise above our personalfeelings and preferences, embracing ourdeeper natures, and accepting our innerfears and insecurities as part of that.Through compassion, artistic talent, and itsunlimited imagination, Water pulls us outof our own ruts and puts us into touch withour higher and more altruistic nature.

At its best, Water is forgiving andcompassionate, able to transcend petty andselfish motives and sees beyond the endlessmelodrama of human life and existence. Atit worst, it can become paranoid andemotionally blocked, noncommittal, andabsolutely refuse to stop living in its owndream world. When balanced, Water bringspeace and directs us towards that still pointin us that is unattached to anythingtransient or vain. It is the secure base of ourdeeper self, offering insight and sensitivityin contrast to the chaos we often face in ourdaily lives.

The Spirit element encourages us tobreak free of any unnecessary attachmentsthat hold us back from seeing our truenature. It is the most metaphysical of all theelements, grasping the underlying unity inall things, often blurring considerations thatblock our awareness of the truth. Thenature of Spirit is forward thinking andhumanitarian in nature, seeking innovationand improvement for all people. Justice andequality figure large in its world; being able

to successfully resolve conflict and strife arehigh on its list. Spirit seeks to createenvironments where people can worktogether for the common good. It isenterprising, innovative and brings changeand transformation in its wake.

Small wonder that Spirit types canbecome so frustrated in a world so filledwith non-believers. Their high expectationsbecome quickly dashed with cynicism andintolerance. Anger and resentment canreplace their natural enthusiasm and beliefthat life is sacred and the human spirithonorable and noble. Ignorance anddisillusionment obscure their enlightenedperspective which unites all living things,large or small, into one interdependentsystem of love and mutual respect.

Spirit types are the poets and themetaphysical philosophers of the world.They are the keepers of the truth, theinterpreters of signs, sometimes having togo underground to protect themselves frompolitical or social turbulence. They remindus of a distant home we all share, of itsunspeakable glory and magnificence. Ineach age, they challenge us to listen to ourown spirits, to remember who we are, andlay claim to our place in the grand cosmicplan. They guide us through our illusionsand doubts, pausing only to remind us thatit was love that created the universe andeverything contained within it. �

Jack Hopkins has been studying astrologysince 1973 and has a passionate interest ininvestigating alternative divisions of theZodiac in natal and predictive work. He hasworked in the IT field for over 30 years and isauthor of several astrology programs whichutilize his research on harmonics and degreeareas. Jack has also applied his interest inharmonics to mundane astrology, resulting insome interesting looks at history and today’sworld, correlating his finding with degree areasto that as well. Find him on the web at:www.eagleeyes-spiritguide7.blogspot.com

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 12

You may be agreat astrologerbut if you don’t

have good client rap-port, your clients won’treturn.

Many years ago, afriend of mine had an appointment with awell-known astrologer. She was very excitedabout her upcoming session and looked for-ward to all the knowledge she would gainfrom it. She also had the fortunate accidentof birth to be born to parents who wereboth astrologers, so she wasn’t naïve or anovice when it came to astrology. Addition-ally, she had the benefit of being a no-non-sense Scorpio. When I saw her the next day,she immediately relayed how angry, frus-

trated and disappointed she was with hersession. During our conversation she toldme that when she sat down with the as-trologer, she observed a television set on be-hind her head with a muted video playing ofhis most recent public performance. Shecouldn’t help but notice that, even thoughthe sound was silenced, he kept glancing upat the screen watching himself. She was soinsulted that five minutes into the session,she got up and walked out without a wordto him. This is a clear example of what notto do in a session!

As astrologers, the majority of us wantour field to be recognized as a professionalong with law, psychology, medicine andothers. There are many ways to achieve this,but one important qualification is conduct-

ing sessions in a professional and ethicalmanner.

Below are suggested guidelines for keepingit professional:

Prior to the session you should have es-tablished the time and place for the session,its length, cost, accepted payment informa-tion, recording options, if any, and theclient’s level of astrological knowledge.

Upon arrival, greet the client and wel-come him/her to the session. A handshakeis professional and indicates a willingness toconnect and reach out.

Explain to the client what to expect in thetime you have together. You may want tomention at what point you will welcomequestions.

Give information that is helpful and useful

BY SANDRA-LEIGH SERIO

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 13

without too much astrological jargon unlessthe client is also an astrologer. The majorityof clients inquire about romance, money, ca-reer, and health. Those are common ques-tions you should be prepared to answer.Sometimes a client desires information onspiritual direction, past lives, mystical experi-ences and dreams. Whatever your response tothese questions, be upbeat and positive inrendering any information.

Make your policy clear about yes and noquestions. Astrologers are not psychics; theyare personality and cycle scrutinizers. If aclient asks when he/she will relocate, you cangive an opinion but make sure you say it isbased on the cycles of the planets and thecorrect birth information that was provided. Ilike to offer percentages to these types ofquestions. As an example, if someone asks“do you think I will change my job?” I mayrespond “looking at your chart you don’t havethe usual configurations present when thereis a job change so the chances that will occurare small, only 25-30%.”

Often health concerns are evident in thechart. When that happens, do not scare theclient. If you see a potential health problem,suggest a doctor’s visit or encourage regularhealth checkups. Be tactful and diplomatic.Never state emphatically that the client has adisease or the potential for one.

Along those same lines, questions aboutdeath may arise. Do not predict death for theclient or someone in his/her close circle. Ifyou see very difficult aspects forming, talkabout changes in lifestyle or relationships.The only exception is when an ailing, elderlyrelative or friend is terminally ill or lingering.At that point, the client may want informa-tion about the timeframe for that person’spassing so he/she can be present or makearrangements. Keep in mind that a clientmay not appear uncomfortable when dis-cussing death, but may in fact be very sensi-tive to this topic so be gentle andcompassionate. If you are uncomfortable withthe topic of death, make it clear from theonset of the session that you don’t answerthose types of questions.

It is quite common for clients to inquireabout relationships. Avoid revealing infidelityor predicting divorce for the client. You cansuggest a difficult time or crisis in a marriageand may further suggest counseling. Formany marriages a crisis can lead to a strongerunion. If a client asks if his/her spouse ischeating, simply say it is something you don’taddress or say you don’t have enough infor-mation to answer that question or the infor-mation you have makes the answer unclear.

During a session, in an effort to connectwith the client, the astrologer often sharespersonal information. However, it is muchmore ethical to not talk about your personallife or reveal anything too intimate aboutyourself. You are there to impart informationto the client not to chat about your life or ex-periences. I have organized Psychic Fairs forover 20 years and the most common reasonsomeone wants a refund is because the readertalked about his/her life instead of focusingon the client.

We all have our own particular views oncurrent events, but your own prejudices andopinions about politics, religion and sexualorientation do not belong in a session.Avoid being judgmental and lecturing tothe client. The most capable astrologer isone who is comfortable with whatever theclient reveals.

In an effort to establish a bond with aclient it is important to avoid comments orbehaviors that can be viewed as flirtatious,sexual or seductive. These types of behaviorscould bring sexual harassment charges andlawsuits.

Clients reveal confidential information tous. They often see us as therapists with aprivileged view of the future. Do not repeatpersonal information about the client afterthe conclusion of the session. Keep all infor-mation private. This applies even when theclient is a colleague or relative. The only ac-ceptable situation for repeating information isif the person is a danger to him/herself or toothers or when you have information that acrime has been committed. In that situation,you will need to contact the police.

All sessions should be punctual. Start thesession on time and end within a few min-utes of the designated time. If you give aclient extra time without an additionalcharge, he/she will expect it the next time.Set good boundaries in the first session withthe client. In that way the client will knowwhat to expect in subsequent sessions.

Smoking or eating during a session isconsidered bad manners and bad taste. Al-ways have water available for both you andthe client. Coffee, tea and non-alcoholicbeverages are optional but could delay thestart time of the session if they are not pre-pared ahead of time. It is a good idea tohave a box of tissue easily accessible to theclient. Cell and office phones, if possible,should be muted. They are an intrusioninto the client/astrologer container you aretrying to establish.

At the conclusion of the session give theclient your card or brochure and a record-ing of the session if you normally provideone. Inform the client of any follow-upprocedure you have and also of your policyfor further sessions.

As a final thought, if you deal with yourclient in a respectful and kind manner,you’ll have a healthy and enduringrelationship that will continue for manyyears to come. �

Sandra-Leigh is a full-time, professionalastrologer with a Master’s Degree inPsychology. She lives in Boulder, Colorado. For 25 years, she wrote a weekly astrologycolumn for a major newspaper and has over30 years experience working with clients allover the United States. Sandra-Leigh iscertified by ISAR, AFA and OPA as aprofessional astrologer. She has written forLlewellyn Publications, Horoscope Magazineand StarIQ. Presently, she is President of theRocky Mountain Astrologers (ROMA) and isthe Secretary and a Group Leader for OPA(Organization for Professional Astrology).Sandra-Leigh can be reached atsandraleigh@sandraleigh.com or 303-604-2777. www.sandraleigh.com

T H E C A R E E R A S T R O L O G E R W I N T E R 2 0 1 2O P A � The Organizat ion for Profess ional Astro logy 14

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