Archetypal Astrology & Addiction Research

I am currently a PhD candidate in Clinical Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology at Pacifica Graduate Institute writing my dissertation on how archetypal astrology could help support the individuation process - the process of personal transformation and identity/personality development - for those in recovery from substance use disorders.

Given the growing interest in astrology among millennials and younger generations and the existing link between spirituality and long-term recovery, exploring how astrology could serve as a valuable spiritual tool for those in recovery seemed like a natural step. It's worth mentioning that while spirituality and religion are different, spirituality can still be found within religious practices. However, more and more people today are identifying as "spiritual but not religious" and are turning towards unconventional spiritual practices instead. Plus, with the rise of astrology in popular culture, it deserves a better look from a psychosocial and spiritual point of view on how it can actually be clinically useful for people in recovery that are attracted to astrology.

From personal experience, and throughout the years I spent working with those in recovery from various addictions (and continue to today), I understood why addiction is sometimes called a "spiritual disease" - it affects more than just the physical and mental aspects of a person; it also impacts their sense of self, purpose, and connection to others and the world around them. It is the absence of connection to anything and everything, robbing someone of their autonomy, freedom, and ability to create purpose. When there is a severing of connection to all the aspects of living, identity loss and confusion ensues, and an empty self is the result, leaving people re-integrating into life with the existential question: "who am I?" 

Unfortunately, no one completes the individuation process (and there are people who never start). We move towards wholeness instead - there's always something to learn.  Realizations, inspirations, and transformations are all a part of what helps us become conscious of the elements of our identity and personality- what we are a part of and how we show up. Spiritual experiences -or something outside of ourselves that changes our perspective- are often said to be catalysts for transformation and moving towards wholeness for people in recovery, and I'm curious about astrology's potential place in the matter.