Alchemical Psychology: Old Recipes for Living in a New World »

THOM F. CAVALLI, Ph.D., is licensed as a psychologist, a marriage, family, and child therapist, and a Qualified Medical Examiner. In addition to his twenty years of private practice, he has conducted many seminars and workshops for community agencies, industry, and private organizations.

Far from legends of turning lead into gold, psychologist Thom F. Cavalli reveals how the ancient art of alchemy can be used today to create powerful and lasting transformations in our personal lives.

Alchemical practices have been reborn in our contemporary world under the rubric of Jungianism, transpersonal psychology, or depth psychology. But in Alchemical Psychology, Thom F. Cavalli, Ph.D., takes us directly to the source-and on a wonderful adventure into the true nature of our hearts and minds.

In a book that sparkles with verve, life, and practicality, Dr. Cavalli explains how alchemy was one of humankind's earliest efforts to transform the nature of consciousness. What little-known or underground arts did alchemists practice in pursuit of self-transformation-and how can they enrich us today?

Using the same practices that he employs with patients, Dr. Cavalli offers readers a plethora of personal exercises that, among other things, enables them to "type" themselves according to ancient alchemical identifiers of nature and personality. He then provides practices that can help free them from the grip of familiar problems and foster true personal growth.

Beautifully illustrated with medieval prints from the alchemical tradition, Alchemical Psychology gives readers both a richer understanding of their own natures and of the traditions on which many of our modern therapies are based.

Library Journal

This ambitious book seeks to cover the history of the art of alchemy and its current use, both as a study in itself and as a counterpart/forerunner to today's science of psychology. Psychologist Cavalli here makes a legitimate case for the importance of "the Royal Art" in personal transformation, spiritual healing, and raising global consciousness. General guidelines and an outline of the steps necessary for courting inner growth through alchemy are offered, but the book lacks enough practical exercises to help the reader truly begin. Still, medieval illustrations, rich symbolism, and a discussion of how planetary influences and elements such as air and fire align with mystical experience and scientific experiment make this a refreshing choice. Cavalli cogently argues that the profound wisdom that all humans possess is already alchemy at work, but we must take action in harmony with our true nature to see conscious results. Newcomers and psychology students alike will be drawn to the author's invitation to live more fully in the magical world. For psychology collections of academic and larger public libraries. Lisa Liquori, MLS, Syracuse, NY Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information.