Magick and Mental Health - Complexes
When people set out on a Pagan path their mental health may be the last thing on their mind. However, it should be, because magick and ritual can cause massive changes in personal biochemistry and ways of thinking which in turn affect perception and behaviour. In a responsible group or coven a lot of the early training is concentrated on balancing the mind through meditation and self-development. When I was a visiting Pagan Chaplain in local prisons one of the first things I did, with any inmates who wished to learn about the Pagan path and magickal arts, was to spend a lot of time using Tarot and traditional counselling to understand their motives. This process also helped them gain insight into the character aspects that lead them to become criminals in the first place. Doing this helped build sound foundations for practicing magick in the safest possible manner and also aided in their rehabilitation.
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art178419.asp