Tarot Reader Certificate Program 2023

Course Description

Day 1. Introduction & getting connected

In this first class, we will review the basics of the Tarot in the context of a shared discussion among the participants. The course will use the Rider-Waite-Smith (RWS) version of the Tarot deck as the foundational deck for instruction and readings. We will review the basic structure of the Tarot deck, and participants are encouraged to bring Tarot decks other than the RWS to discuss the strengths and challenges presented by each deck. Participants will be asked to do preliminary two- and three-card readings for selected “clients” drawn from the class, including the teacher. These readings will form the basis for discussion of technique as well as dimensions of interpretation. Assignments for the upcoming month will be given.

Day 2. Structure and dynamics of psyche  

In the second class, we will explore the structure and dynamics of the psyche from a Jungian perspective and examine the ways the Tarot reflects these elements. We will also explore the relationships between synchronicity and the Tarot through readings and discussion. Direct instruction in doing “vertical” and “horizontal” three-card readings, including the Past-Present-Future spread, the Overview-Challenge-Action spread (horizontal) and the Conscious-Issue-Unconscious, and the Issue/Challenge-Internal and External Resources spread (vertical), will be given. A four-card Body-Mind-Spirit-Action reading will also be presented. Opportunities for guided practice in using these spreads will be included, and a “lab” session will be provided for small groups of participants to read for each other with input from the teacher. Assignments for the upcoming month will be given.

Day 3. Transcendent function and the Tarot  

In the third class, we will study the Jungian concept of the Transcendent Function. We will look at Jung’s definitions of the transcendent function and explore how the Tarot can be understood as an example of the activity of the transcendent function. We will also examine Jung’s teachings on psychological types, and how typology can be integrated with the Tarot. The relationship between the intuitive function and consulting the Tarot cards will be examined. We will also discuss the role of the “question” in the context of a Tarot reading, as well as explore the difficulties and benefits in formulating meaningful and open questions. The Celtic Cross, a foundational spread in the world of Tarot, will be presented, and opportunities to read the “cross” portion of the Celtic Cross will be provided in the large group and in smaller “breakout” groups, with the teacher’s input. A discussion regarding the ethics involved in Tarot work will be initiated, which will be continued in subsequent sessions. We will also have another lab session. Assignments for the upcoming month will be given.

Day 4. Celtic Cross, Major Arcana and paths on the Kabbalistic Tree of Life  

In the fourth class, we will continue learning how to use the full ten-card Celtic Cross spread in work with clients. There will be opportunities for demonstration and practice. We will also engage in an in-depth exploration of the Major Arcana, including controversies that have been part of the historical analysis of the Major Arcana. The relationship between the Major Arcana and the paths on the Kabbalistic Tree of Life will be covered. Also, guidelines and examples for the upcoming Tarot Salon assignment will be presented, in this fourth class. Continued discussion on ethics and practical aspects of reading Tarot for clients will be held. Assignments for the upcoming month will be given.

Day 5 Salon Presentations (1)

In sessions 5-7, each participant will present two Tarot readings that they have given to clients/friends outside the program. These presentations will be evaluated by the instructor according to a set of rubrics given in class. Each reading will include a three-card spread and a Celtic Cross spread. These Salon reading presentations will consist of three parts.

Part One: A brief, general, and non-identifying description of the querent, including age level, gender, previous experience of the client with Tarot, either as a reader or a querent, and a description of the question or concern that the querent brought to the reading.

Part Two: A listing of the cards that appeared in each spread. If possible, a photograph of each spread would be helpful. 

Part Three: A description of how the reading progressed. This can be an exact transcript of the reading, or a prose description of your interpretations of the cards and the responses from the querent. If you received any feedback from the querent, include that in your presentation.

Following each presentation, the rest of the class will have opportunities to ask questions about the reading, and to offer other reflections about the interaction. This discussion portion of the presentation is not evaluative, but participatory in a helpful and positive way. 

Day 6. Salon Presentations (2)

Tarot Salon Presentations and small group reading practice (with instructor feedback).

Day 7. Salon Presentations (3)

Tarot Salon Presentations and small group reading practice (with instructor feedback).

Day 8. Tarot Decks

On this final day of the certificate program, participants will explore the use of other Tarot decks as a means of amplifying the deck(s) you are most comfortable using. The differences between Tarot decks and other oracle decks will be considered, and the practice of combining Tarot and other oracles will be explored. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite decks to the class, and there will be opportunities to show the deck and discuss why it numbers among each participant’s favorite set of decks.

Evaluation of Tarot Reading skills

• Presentation of two clients’ or friends’ readings in a Tarot Salon session will be viewed as a demonstration of each participant’s competency in Tarot reading. 
• Get 3 peer reviews of tarot reader competency list and a self-evaluation. The competency list will be shared with you during the course.

This certificate program is ideal when

• You want to become skillful in reading the tarot.
• You want to do tarot readings for friends or others to help them develop their potential, or if you want to add the Tarot as an adjunct to an already thriving coaching or counseling practice.
• You have a wish to deepen your competency in working with the rich symbolism of the Tarot.
• You have an interest in Jungian psychology.

By the end of this course, you will be able to

• Conduct Tarot consults using the 3-card spread and the Celtic Cross.
• Integrate Tarot readings into your work with others.
• Ground Tarot readings in a broader Jungian perspective.
• Deepen awareness of inner and outer structures using the Tarot.
• Cultivate a deeper consciousness embracing the ancient wisdom of the Tarot.

How you will benefit

• Fluency in reading the tarot for others, among which is the Celtic Cross spread.
• Ability to work with symbols in the tarot (and general) as you will view these symbols as potentially containing clues about your personal development journey.
• If you are a coach, a therapist, or another type of healer, this certificate program can add new dimensions to your work and its effectiveness.
• Feeling grounded in Jungian psychology in relation to the Tarot.