From unlocking the mysteries of the cosmos to guiding individuals through transformative journeys of self-discovery, Carmen Turner-Schott has devoted her life to blending the ancient art of astrology with modern psychological understanding. Founder of Deep Soul Divers Astrology, Carmen’s journey began at the tender age of 16, when her curiosity about the stars evolved into a passion for uncovering the hidden connections between celestial patterns and human behavior. Her work has earned her national and international acclaim, and her eleven best-selling books, including The Mysteries of the Twelfth Astrological House and Phoenixes and Angels: Mastering the Eighth and Twelfth Astrological Houses, continue to inspire readers to harness the power of their birth charts for healing and growth. In this exclusive Mystic Mag’s interview, Carmen shares her personal journey into astrology, her groundbreaking work in integrating astrology with psychology, and how understanding the deeper energies of our birth charts can lead to profound transformation.
Your journey into astrology began at the age of 16, and by 19, you were already offering consultations. What initially drew you to astrology, and how did your early experiences shape your approach to the practice?
In my senior year of high school, I had an experience that changed the course of my life. One night, I woke up in the middle of the night to see a glowing orb of light in my doorway. It was translucent, watery, and yellow—about the size of a large ball. I couldn’t move or scream; I was paralyzed, lying there and watching it for what felt like hours. Eventually, it was as if the orb released me. I was finally able to yell for my mother and begged her to look across the hallway.
To my astonishment, she saw it too. For the first time in my life, someone else had witnessed one of my mystical experiences. That shared moment with my mother confirmed to me that what I had been experiencing was real.
That same year, I endured another life-changing event. A close friend of mine was tragically killed in an accidental shooting. It was the first time I had experienced the loss of someone I cared about, and it profoundly changed me. These events—seeing the glowing orb and losing my friend—ignited my curiosity about the spiritual world. I began to wonder why I was so intuitive, why I experienced vivid dreams, and why I seemed so open to these unexplained phenomena.
When I was 16, I wandered into a small bookstore in St. Louis, Missouri, called Mystic Valley. I was searching for books about orbs, angels, and other spiritual topics. While browsing, I came across an astrology book about Virgo, my sun sign in Western astrology. As I read it, I was amazed—it felt like it was describing me perfectly. That day, I bought several astrology books and began teaching myself how to read birth charts.
Back in 1993, we didn’t have the technology we have now, so everything was done by hand. I learned to calculate charts manually, using rulers and paper to draw the planetary aspects and symbols. I remember casting my first birth chart for myself, meticulously drawing everything by hand. I also created charts for my friends and family, refining my skills through practice.
At the time, I noticed there was a lot of confusion about having planets in the 8th and 12th houses, both of which were prominent in my chart. As I studied astrology, I began to understand how these placements explained my mystical experiences—like the glowing orb and my vivid dreams. I realized that astrology was a powerful tool for self-awareness and understanding.
When I was in graduate school, software programs finally became available, making chart calculations much easier. But by then, I had already mastered the old-school methods. I started practicing astrology more seriously in my late teens, offering free readings to people in St. Louis. What began as a hobby turned into a part-time job by the time I was 19. People insisted on paying me or offering donations, even though I initially felt hesitant to charge for my services.
What drew me to astrology—and what keeps me passionate about it to this day—is the desire to understand myself and others better. I wanted to know why people are the way they are and to help them gain the same insights I had gained. Astrology started as a deeply personal journey and has grown into a lifelong calling to guide and support others in their own journeys.
As both a licensed clinical social worker and a psychological astrologer, how do you integrate these two disciplines in your consultations, and what role do they play in helping your clients?
Astrology has always been a part of who I am, even since I was young. I truly live astrology. I constantly ask people for their birthdates, and I can often sense people’s energies. Sometimes, I can even guess their signs. Initially, I kept my interest in astrology quiet, treating it as a personal secret during my early years of social work. However, over time, it naturally integrated into my professional life.
As a social worker, I worked with children and teens. During intake sessions, I would always note their birthdates, which gave me an incredible tool for understanding them better. I didn’t openly tell people I was using astrology, but the knowledge I gained helped me understand their strengths, weaknesses, emotional nature, thought processes, and how they related to others. Astrology became a hidden but invaluable resource in my counseling practice, seamlessly complementing traditional methods.
Being a licensed social worker and trained in therapy has been instrumental in my approach as a psychological astrologer. I believe this combination allows me to provide deep and impactful readings. I often tell clients that a 60-minute astrology session with me is akin to undergoing eight hours of psychotherapy or psychoanalysis because it’s so profound and transformative. Many clients have shared that a single session helped them address issues they had been struggling with for years, offering clarity and healing they never thought possible.
Astrology has been my consistent second career. While maintaining a full-time social work job, I’ve simultaneously managed my astrology consultation business. This includes teaching, writing about astrology, and conducting workshops and classes. I’ve always kept these two worlds somewhat separate, though astrology inevitably finds its way into every aspect of my life. Even in my traditional social work roles, colleagues have been curious about astrology. Many have asked me to read their charts, and I’ve even taught astrology to other psychologists and social workers. I’ve been fortunate to have open-minded supervisors who appreciate my approach and the insights astrology provides.
To me, astrology and psychology are deeply interconnected. Carl Jung, one of my greatest inspirations, believed in astrology and its archetypes. He saw connections between Jungian archetypes and the 12 zodiac signs, as both deal with personality traits and energies. In my view, astrology is fundamentally about energy. It reveals the patterns, tendencies, and karmic lessons we come into this world to experience.
One of my favorite quotes is by Edgar Cayce, the renowned American psychic: “Astrology is fact, but there is no greater power over man than his own will.” This resonates deeply with me. While our birth charts reveal certain destined patterns and karmic lessons, we always retain free will. We choose how we navigate the energies present in our charts. Astrology allows us to gain awareness, which can help us mitigate challenges and make more empowered choices.
For example, the transits of the planets act as triggers, awakening specific themes or lessons in different areas of life. Everyone’s transit chart is unique, based on their birth chart. Even identical twins born minutes apart may experience similar life lessons, but how they respond and grow from those lessons will differ because of their free will.
Astrology is a profound tool for self-awareness and healing. It teaches us that while some events in life may feel destined, we always have the power to shape our responses and align with our highest potential.
What type of services do you offer?
I offer both full-time and part-time coaching for people who want to learn more about astrology. Teaching astrology is one of my passions. I provide 60-minute and 90-minute psychological consultations tailored to each individual.
Additionally, I offer personalized birth chart reports, relationship synastry counseling, and insights into transit charts. I also explore health-related aspects through astrology, providing a holistic perspective for my clients. My one-on-one astrological consultations, which last 60 or 90 minutes, provide a deep and meaningful experience.
I also conduct Akashic Records readings. During these sessions, I access Akashic Records to tap into people’s past lives and connect them to their birth charts. The nodes of the moon in a birth chart, in particular, often align closely with past-life experiences, highlighting lessons and mastery goals. By blending insights from the Akashic Records with astrological symbolism, I create a comprehensive and transformative session for each client.
Furthermore, I lead a monthly Deep Soul Divers Astrology Group Membership. This includes a Zoom circle with a small group of women, where we explore astrology, metaphysics, meditation, and other related topics. These sessions are both educational and deeply enriching. Participants can subscribe to this membership and become part of a supportive, learning-focused community, which is always a lot of fun.
I am also available for speaking engagements and can teach classes or present at conferences on various astrology topics, both nationally and internationally. These presentations often incorporate my research and expertise in astrology.
These are just some of the services I offer to help people connect more deeply with themselves and the universe around them.
In your book Phoenixes and Angels: Mastering the Eighth and Twelfth Astrological Houses, you explore the deeper, more transformative aspects of these houses. What inspired your focus on the Eighth and Twelfth houses, and what are the most common challenges you see associated with them?
The 8th and 12th houses are my passion. I became fascinated with these two houses when I first started learning astrology at the age of 16. What truly ignited my interest was having my first natal chart done by a professional astrologer at 18. During the session, the astrologer told me, “Your Sun is in the 12th house. Anything you put before God will get taken away from you.” That statement left a profound impression on me. I was struck by how deeply it resonated and started researching the 12th and 8th houses, especially since I have planets in both.
I have the Sun and Venus in the 12th house, as well as the Moon, Jupiter, Chiron, and Part of Fortune in the 8th house. Being what I call an “8th-12th house person,” I delved deeply into these areas of astrology. This research eventually led me to self-publish a book in 2010 titled The Mysteries of the 8th Astrological House: Phoenix Rising. The book is based on my studies and experiences.
The journey began when I wrote an article about the 8th house and my personal experiences with having the Moon there. To my surprise, people from all over the world reached out to share similar stories, often saying it felt like I was writing about their lives. Back then, in the early 2000s, the internet wasn’t as advanced as it is now, but I posted the article on a website in 2004. Soon, I received hundreds of emails. These heartfelt responses inspired me to compile the stories and patterns into a book.
Let me start with the 12th house. I’ve done extensive research on it, and even had an article published in the NCGR magazine on the subject. There are several recurring patterns for individuals with significant 12th house placements, particularly the Sun or Moon, or those with strong Pisces energy.
Patterns in the 12th House:
Absent or Missing Parental Figure:
Many individuals with 12th house placements report feeling disconnected from a parent—emotionally, mentally, or physically. Even if the parent is present in the home, there’s often an emotional absence. Out of 100 charts, I’d estimate 99 people share this experience.
Feeling Different:
These individuals often feel like they don’t belong, as if they’re from another world. They might describe themselves as “angels” or beings who’ve fallen to Earth and struggle to adapt to the material world. This was my experience as a child, and understanding my Sun in the 12th house validated those feelings.
Addiction Issues:
Addiction is a recurring theme—whether it’s alcohol, work, food, or relationships. They may also attract people with addictions, often becoming caretakers for those who are struggling.
Vivid Psychic Dreams:
Many with 12th house planets experience dreams that predict the future. When I was 16, I frequently dreamed of events that later came true, though no one could explain why. Astrology eventually provided the answers.
Idealism and Secret Love Affairs:
These individuals often fall for unavailable or inappropriate people—teachers, married individuals, or others in unattainable situations. These “secret” or unrequited loves are a hallmark of 12th house placements.
The 8th house is equally fascinating. I often refer to individuals with strong 8th house placements as “phoenixes” due to their ability to rise from life’s challenges.
Patterns in the 8th House:
Connection to Death and Loss:
Many 8th house individuals experience significant losses early in life, such as the death of a loved one. These events profoundly shape their lives.
Sensitivity to Spirits:
People with 8th house placements frequently report seeing spirits or ghosts. Many have mediumship or channeling abilities and are deeply attuned to energy. They are naturally drawn to energy healing practices like Reiki, pranic healing, or touch therapy.
Emotional Resilience:
While 8th house individuals may experience trauma, such as abuse or betrayal, they are incredibly resilient. This house symbolizes survival, transformation, and rebirth, enabling them to rise stronger after every challenge.
Privacy and Secrecy:
Those with 8th house planets are intensely private. They guard their emotions and thoughts, only opening up to those they trust deeply.
Comparing the 12th and 8th Houses:
Both the 8th and 12th houses share themes of secrecy, psychic sensitivity, and energy awareness. However, they manifest differently. For example, 8th house individuals often uncover secrets about others due to their perceptiveness, while 12th house individuals might remain unaware of secrets surrounding them because of Neptune’s influence, which clouds clarity.
These two houses have intrigued me for years, inspiring me to write, teach workshops, and explore the depths of their meanings. If you’d like to learn more, my book Phoenixes and Angels delves deeper into the intricacies of these fascinating astrological placements.
As an author of ten books, including Astrology from a Christian Perspective, how do you reconcile astrology with spiritual and religious beliefs, particularly for those who may see a conflict between the two?
I struggled with this for pretty much my entire life until I was in my 30s. I was raised Christian, and it was a significant issue for me in the beginning. Over time, however, it became less of a problem as I realized that astrology is mentioned in the Bible.
At first, though, the criticism and judgment from others were difficult to handle. Many Christians reach out to me now and share their interest in learning about astrology, but they’ve often been told it’s wrong or even evil. This discourages them and makes them hesitant to explore it openly. They’re often afraid of what others might think if they find out they believe in astrology.
I used to be very private about it too. I would carefully judge who seemed open-minded enough for me to share my beliefs with because, unfortunately, not everyone is. But I’ve noticed a shift happening—a spiritual awakening or revolution, if you will. With Pluto moving into Aquarius, I believe more people are becoming interested in astrology. I’ve seen an increasing number of Christians reach out to me, finding my book or wanting to meet and learn more.
One of the most important things I tell people is that astrology is created by God. It’s a tool for self-awareness. Astrology is mentioned in the Bible—in the Book of Genesis, the Book of Revelation, and more. The symbols of the fixed signs are present in Catholic churches worldwide. The bull (Taurus), the eagle (the ancient symbol of Scorpio), the face of a man (Aquarius), and the lion (Leo) appear alongside depictions of Jesus.
I first noticed this when I lived in Germany for several years and traveled extensively. Seeing these symbols in churches helped me realize that astrology is deeply rooted in spiritual tradition. There’s more to astrology than people realize. Even the story of the three wise men—astrologers who followed the star to Jesus’ birthplace—is a powerful example of astrology in action.
For me, astrology and Christianity are not contradictory. The universe, the planets, and the energies they represent are all created by God. Astrology is simply a tool to help us understand ourselves and the world around us.
One of the turning points for me was being asked by about.com to write a series of articles about Christianity and the Bible, specifically addressing the concept of being a Christian astrologer. This inspired me to write my book, Astrology from a Christian Perspective, to share my experiences and insights on how astrology and Christianity can coexist.
I often refer to a quote from Jesus: “There shall be signs in the sun, moon, and stars upon my return.” He also told his disciples to “follow the man with the alabaster jar into the house where he dwells,” which is a symbol of Aquarius in astrology. Why would astrology be mentioned in the Bible if it weren’t significant?
This realization changed my entire perspective. I no longer worry about what others think, especially now that I’m 49 years old. Instead, I try to educate people and show them that astrology and Christianity are connected. Astrology is not something to fear but to embrace as part of the divine creation.
In your practice, how do you help clients use their natal charts to navigate challenges related to mental health and emotional well-being, especially when dealing with trauma or loss?
In my normal social work job, I primarily work with trauma survivors, and I’ve been doing this for over 20 years. I’ve supported sexual assault survivors, abused children, and individuals dealing with various forms of trauma. I am trauma-certified in therapy, and I’ve found that spirituality, yoga, grounding exercises, mindfulness, and other holistic practices are some of the most beneficial tools for healing trauma.
Most of my astrology clients who reach out for consultations tend to have planets in the 8th house. As we’ve discussed, people with strong 8th house placements often experience trauma in their lives. I’m highly trained in addressing these issues, and during sessions, I frequently encounter clients who become triggered or emotional.
In such cases, I incorporate various techniques, including breathing exercises and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) tapping, which involves rhythmic tapping on specific pressure points to release emotional distress. I’m also a Reiki practitioner and certified in pranic healing energy work, so I bring these additional tools into my astrology sessions. These techniques, combined with my background as a therapist, provide a comprehensive approach to healing.
Helping people overcome trauma, loss, and mental health challenges is my passion. Astrology plays a key role in validating and understanding why someone might struggle with depression, anxiety, or patterns of attracting unhealthy relationships. It helps identify why they may have difficulty letting go of the past or healing emotional wounds. By using a client’s natal chart and transit charts alongside my counseling skills, I guide them to build strength and resiliency.
I deeply believe astrology can help us heal, transform, and grow into the best versions of ourselves. That belief is central to my work and is reflected in my personal motto. In sessions, I use astrology to complement practical counseling techniques, supporting clients through their healing journey.
I always recommend that clients consider follow-up sessions if needed. Additionally, I often refer them to complementary practices such as energy healing, Reiki, chiropractic care, acupuncture, yoga, and mindfulness exercises. These are all evidence-based approaches shown to help process and release trauma. As they say, “the body keeps the score,” meaning the body holds onto trauma until we process and release it. Healing requires addressing the emotional and physical aspects of trauma, and I’m deeply committed to helping people do just that.
For anyone interested in learning more, you can visit my website at CarmenTurnerSchott.com. Follow me on Instagram at Carmen Turner Schott Author, on Facebook at Deep Soul Divers Astrology with Carmen Turner Schott, and on Twitter at Astrology Awareness.
I also invite you to subscribe to my YouTube channel, Carmen Turner Schott, where I regularly post videos.
I’m thrilled to announce the release of my 11th book, Your Astrological Energy: Maximize the Power of Your Birth Chart. It will be released in August and is currently available for pre-order on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, and other online bookstores. The book is published by Llewellyn Worldwide and is designed to help readers harness the energy of their birth charts to achieve their full potential.
