Introduction to Coven Abuse

Little help is available to those suffering mistreatment in an abusive coven unless they are fortunate enough to connect with an understanding professional or others in the same situation. As a Pagan psychologist only too familiar with such damage, I developed this Coven Abuse Self-Help Index (CASHI) initially to help those in our community dealing with abusive Pagan clergy. It has now been generalised to fit most pathways, be they Asatru, Buddhist, Celtic, Druidic, Hindu, generic Pagan, Shamanic, Wiccan or Witch. The CASHI is couched in terms of persons within an actively abusive situation, or for those previewing Covens Groves, Circles, Kindreds, Organizations etc. This Index also works well for those choosing individual apprenticeships, serial workshops or longer training situations of a metaphysical or "New Age" nature. Use of the CASHI will hopefully aid novices and others in avoiding common abusive situations that occur in such working groups. I spun the framework of this tool from the main concepts of Issac Bonewits venerable A Bonewits Cult Danger Evaluation Frame which is sometimes a bit confusing to novices as yet unfamiliar with the Pagan milieu. The CASHI was formulated to assist persons new to the metaphysical community and only marginally familiar with psychology in recognizing situations of coven and other organizational abuse. It is also quite suitable for persons at more advanced levels of tenure who may suddenly find themselves in an untenable situation within their group...

Coven Abuse Reality Check

If you are depressed, ill, stressed-out or otherwise in a negative space, take some time out to take a very long hard look at your own situation, motives, attitudes and actions before seeking to place the blame on others. Communication is a two-way street. Are you sure you are effectively communicating your needs to your covenmates and coven leadership? What about your negative perceptions? The worst thing to do is hoard up perceived slights then dump them on an unsuspecting populace. Be a good communicator and honestly discuss your ongoing perceptions with your fellow covenmates and Leadership when necessary. When deciding whether your ill feelings about the Coven stem from your own problems or those of other coveners or Leadership, factor in your own stress levels, emotional life and relative fulfillment level. Even lack of proper diet and exercise can affect your judgment and decision-making capabilities. Make sure you stand as much in Balance as possible before applying the CASHI.