What, exactly, is Angel Therapy? (And is it for you?)

When it comes to angels, most of us typically fall into two camps: We’re either total non-believers, or we associate them with religion. But there’s a shift happening in New York’s spiritual underground, and it’s all about reaching new heights in healing and happiness by cracking open old beliefs about reality—and the range of therapeutic tools available to us. It’s called Angel Therapy.

Sound a little heady? Here’s what you need to know about this, ahem, divine intervention.

1. What is it?Angel Therapy is a non-denominational spiritual healing method that involves working with your guardian angels and archangels (kind of like the managers of the angel world). A particularly attune person can connect with angels through their own work. Others need a practitioner, who’ll use an angel card deck to give readings, and who can channel your angels and passed loved ones. (Note: You’ll definitely need to suspend your disbelief in order to partake.)

2. Why do it?According to practitioners, everyone has guardian angels and connecting with them helps create more peace in your life. Believers, well, believe that angels can give clear guidance in many areas—finances, relationships, health, and tapping into your life’s purpose. They’re practical helpers who intervene in our everyday lives, but you’ve gotta ask for their help, because angels don’t, and won’t, impose on anyone’s freewill. How polite!

3. What will it feel like?Practitioners say connecting with your angels feels like meeting family or reuniting with best friends you haven’t seen in ages—there’s a sense of familiarity, love, and recognition that’s healing, all on its own. Come prepared with questions or intentions, and you (or your practitioner) will be guided to the angel cards that are most appropriate for you at the moment—kind of like tarot. Expect a co-creative experience in which you, the practitioner, and the angels all come together.

4. Who are the pros?Angel Therapy was created by superstar spiritual teacher Doreen Virtue. Virtue’s created a program for all who wish to become certified Angel Therapy practitioners, with live sessions that frequently take place in New York City. (She’s also got plenty of books on the topic.)

5. Is it for me?The angelic realms are the next step for those already on a spiritual path who are ready to go deeper—and who are open to seeing angels as more than just Christmas tree toppers.

Now, on a personal note…sometimes the thing we need most finds us rather than us seeking it, and that’s exactly what happened for me. I found myself dialing into Virtue’s radio show not fully knowing who she was yet or why I was calling, and I was selected out of hundreds of callers (by the angels!) to ask my question. Virtue channeled their message to me, and I really believe it was a pivotal moment on my path toward self-knowledge, and clarity around my life’s mission. Thank heavens for that! —Jennifer Kass