Divination isn’t scientific, but can it ever be therapeutic?

Divination isn’t scientific, but can it ever be therapeutic?

Author: ABC Australia July 26, 2025 Duration: 34:04
Love it or hate it, there are reasons you might read your star sign and relate to what it says about you as a person. We all fall into cognitive traps — but if we’re aware of them, is it such a bad thing to indulge in your daily horoscope, or a tarot card reading? Today, we delve into the occult, to understand why some people seek messages from the universe, and if it can play a role in therapeutic care. If you want to hear more about otherworldly beliefs, check out our episode Spooky science: What's behind a paranormal experience? And Soul Search also has an episode called Astrology and tarot — telling the future, or connecting with the present? Guests: Professor Susan Krauss Whitbourne Professor Emerita of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst Ryan Findlay Psychotherapist and tarot reader Credits: Presenter: Sana Qadar Reporter/producer: Shelby Traynor Senior producer: James Bullen Producer: Rose Kerr Sound engineer: Simon Branthwaite Extra information: When It Comes to Personality Tests, a Dose of Skepticism Is a Good Thing Why You Might Not Want to Trust a Personality Test – Psychology Today The validity of astrological predictions on marriage and divorce: a longitudinal analysis of Swedish register data Even the stars think that I am superior: Personality, intelligence and belief in astrology The Power of Rituals – Psychology Today

Ever wondered what's really happening inside your head? Each week, All In The Mind from ABC Australia ventures into the complex landscape of human thought and feeling. This isn't just a dry science lecture; it's a thoughtful exploration of the experiences that shape us, hosted by curious minds who know how to tell a compelling story. You'll hear conversations that bridge the gap between scientific research and the messy reality of daily life, delving into topics as diverse as the mechanisms of memory, the challenges of breaking an addiction, or the ethical puzzles posed by artificial intelligence. The discussions are grounded and accessible, making the inner workings of the brain relevant to anyone interested in health, behaviour, or simply understanding themselves a little better. By tuning into this podcast, you join a community considering how our mental universe influences everything from our personal fitness to our social connections. It’s a weekly opportunity to pause and reflect on the fascinating forces-both biological and psychological-that drive what we do and who we are. The production brings together expert insights with genuine human stories, creating a space where complex ideas about the mind and behaviour are unpacked with clarity and depth.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

All In The Mind
Podcast Episodes
Healing from self-hatred [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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Many of us have felt self loathing at some point in our lives — maybe when you've failed at an important task at work, or lost an important relationship. But some people hate themselves all the time — their inner monolog…
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Be honest, how many times have you checked your notifications in the last hour? Or opened a new, totally unrelated tab? Or stopped what you're doing even though you really need to do it? Distractions are everywhere. And…
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Duration: 29:36
Have you ever experienced "the ick"? It's that sudden, visceral feeling of being put off by someone you're dating. Maybe it's their hat, a hobby or even the way they laugh. Stories of the ick are prolific online, but it…
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Duration: 29:36
Developmental paediatrician Dr Billy Garvey has seen a lot of kids with behavioural issue over the years, and there are ten things he wishes all parents understood about their kids mental health. From insecure attachment…
The music that saves us [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:36
When bad things happen, do you berate yourself or treat yourself with compassion? Do you journal, meditate, or listen to music? Growing up, Sabrina McKenzie always turned to music to help her through her worst moments. A…
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Duration: 28:45
According to consumer psychology, there's a recipe for being cool. And surprisingly, the ingredients are similar across a bunch of countries and cultures. So today, we explore the concept of cool: what it says about our…