Journeying: Where Shamanism and Psychology Meet

Jeannette Gagan's Journeying is a must-read for those who are interested in shamanism but have been turned off by fuzzy-headed mystical claims or sloppy exposition. In this well-written and eminently useful manual, shamanism, "perhaps the oldest form of practical spirituality in the world," is explained in a straightforward, scholarly manner by a respected licensed psychologist. Gagan succinctly summarizes the procedures, philosophies, and purposes of modern psychology, illuminating the common areas occupied between the two. She builds a strong case for the introduction of shamanistic journeying into the retinue of healing modalities for the modern psychotherapist. For those intent on healing the psyches of themselves or others, shamanism may well work where other modalities have failed. For example, long-repressed anger can be processed while journeying without fear of upsetting the neighbors, or one day awakening to the horrible realization that you just kicked the dog. --Randall Cohan

A landmark application of shamanic wisdom to early developmental wounding where the ills of society begin. -- Larry Dossey,MD, author of Prayer is Good Medicine

Examining modern social concerns such as inadequate bonding in infancy and the effects of violence, brain research, and the consequences of altered states of consciousness, Gagan applies the ancient technique of journeying to the intellectual structure of psychological theory. Her approach is refreshingly original, the goal being to encourage rapid self-discovery and self-healing. -- NAPRA REVIEW, Vol. 9, No. #, 1998

Gagan uses transformative imagery and symbolism as she probes the depths of inadequate bonding in infancy, violence in adulthood, the imprint of violence on the collective psyche. Gagan masterfully tells us why we need the power of shamanic healing in our lives, how psychology would benefit from a marriage of the two, and how even shamanism stands to gain from psychology's theoretical positioning. Highly recommended for practitioners and lay persons alike -- LEADING EDGE REVIEW, Summer, 1998

Here is an author who clearly knows her subject. . . .Gagan's book is nothing short of fascinating. It doesn't ask you to reject modern psychology, only to consider augmenting the discipline with a deeper plane of consciousness. -- THE NEW MEXICAN, March 8, 1998

Shamans in indigenous cultures were and are also the psychologists of the communityl. -- Sandra Ingerman, author of Soul Retrieval and Fall to Grace

This phenomenal book...shows how the separating and controlling energy of violence transforms into healing unity. -- Twylah Nitsch, Seneca Elder