Dubrow-Eichel, S. & L. (1988). "Trouble in paradise: Some observations on psychotherapy with new agers." Cultic Studies Journal, 5 (2), 177-93.

OVERVIEW

This study provides a secular journal’s understanding of the New Age movement. It also reveals the problems that therapists are having with those involved in New Age practices. However, the study reminds readers that research on New Agers is new. There has been very little research done on this topic; predominantly, the writing on this subject has been educational. Therefore, readers may interpret the study as an initial hint of the therapeutic relationship with the New Age movement.

DESIGN

The study is based on the experiences of several therapists who work with the Re-Entry Therapy, Information & Referral Network (RETIRN). These therapists shared their personal observations of New Age clients before a panel and discussed several issues in a symposium. Therefore, the findings in this study emerged from a brainstorming session between those presenting their findings.

FINDINGS

First developed in this study are the observations that helped to define the New Age movement. Like so much written on this movement, this study describes it as "a collection of widely varying groups and individuals" Those adhering to New Age philosophy see the untapped human potential as the means in which the "New Age" will be brought to the forefront of society. The foundations of this movement are hard to pinpoint, because there are so many dimensions that have floated around for centuries. However, this study "seems" to point to the 1960s as the entrance into Western society. Still, it is important to remember that many New Age personality traits have existed in our society for decades.

There appear to be three degrees of involvement of each group of New Agers. The therapeutic critique of each group is also described:

The Dabblers. "Dabblers" believes that they have had some experience in the occult (ESP, out-of-body experience, etc.). Since these people are not heavily involved, they are usually seeking therapy for typical reasons. Because the therapist may never know that a "dabbler" is playing in the occult, challenges in treatment may arise. If the therapist does not recognize the involvement, one may move into one of the other stages. The Hoppers. "Hoppers" become very involved, sampling many different New Age groups or techniques. These people are searching for quick answers to their problems; this is why they experiment with so many groups. The therapists have difficulty getting this group to cope with reality, because reality is what they are actually trying to avoid. Therapist also find that "hoppers" bend established boundaries. The therapist must eventually show the client the false teachings with which they are aligned, or the client will eventually fall into the third category. The Cultists. Cultists become "god-like" leaders or sell themselves into the teachings of one of another "cultic." By the time the person reaches this stage, it is too late for the therapist to work with them alone. Therapists advise that an exit counselor should be used to first break the ties with the client’s group. If this is done properly, therapy is then appropriate. Before an exit counselor is used, however, the therapist should only act as a consultant.

CONCLUSION

The concluding remarks reveal the therapists’ deep concern for those involved in the New Age movement. They reiterate the complexity of the movement and categorize it as another of the destructive cults. As therapists, they want to uncover the deep issues that cause people to become involved with a movement such as New Age. However, considering the complexity of this movement and the minimal study received so far, therapists are only beginning to understand New Age clients.

CRITIQUE AND EVALUATION

This study is a firm initial step. It offers a reliable overview of the New Age movement and a therapeutic perspective of the issue. The therapists encourage article readers to explore the issue more intensely.

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION AND DISCUSSION

• What do you see within the movement that would entice people whom you know?
• If you have studied the 1960s, what do you see as influencing this movement during that time?
• What information can you supply to someone dealing with a person living in one of the stages of this movement?

IMPLICATIONS

• The diversity of the New Age movement must be understood, before anyone will be able to effectively impact the situation. Therefore, it is crucial for those in the helping professions to educate themselves on New Age.
• Seminars may be conducted to educate parents, teachers, and students about the movement and the diversity within it.
• The stages of development in New Age movement are important. Considering the complexity of the New Age movement, much more must be read and shared. As seen by the findings, those working with young people must be educated, equipped, and readied to counter the movement.

Anne Montague cCYS