i perceive astrology as a mystical fusing of math and myth. i think all humans have orientated themselves in time by use of the sun, moon, planets and stars. aside from understanding these celestial movements as a both time-markers and calendars, most peoples have also prescribed meanings, interpretations and stories to celestial patterns and events. in this way, we have also used the sky to orientate ourselves in narrative.

ascribing meaning is a powerful thing, both personally and politically. i believe the framework and language of astrology has potential to be a very empowering lens that can enable conscious participation in both individual and collective narratives. i approach astrology as a method to acquire self-understanding with the aim of self-acceptance, which in turn allows more conscious participation or presence in the world. astrology cannot solve or fix anything, but it can offer guidance and insight into how to navigate oneself in the world in ways that are supportive and self-appropriate. in my practice, i value critical thinking, kindness and common sense.

if you book a reading with me: i will interpret your chart in accordance with what you’re needing, which might be insight into a specific topic or question. or simply information and affirmation about your birth chart. we will co-create our time together with both of us guiding the conversation according to your needs and desires. whatever i interpret will be coming from my own context, which is probably very different to your context. i will see our session as a success if our different contexts can meet each other kindly and you walk away with useful insights into the magical and complicated being that is you.

about my astrology education: i have been studying and practicing astrology since 2018. i practice “western” astrology and use a mix of modern psychological astrology and traditional Hellenistic astrology. i use the tropical zodiac and read charts with the whole sign housing systems, but i always look at charts in quadrant sign housing systems, too. i am currently enrolled in Year Two of Austin Coppock’s Three Year Fundamentals of Astrology Course and i have take a number of workshops and courses with astrologers such as Jessica Lanyadoo, Renee Sills, Diana Rose Harper and Blair Bogin. i am also informally reading and learning about Vedic astrology. i follow OPA’s ethical guidelines, which you can read here.

if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch at: nicola.van.straaten(at)gmail.com

here’s what some people have said about working with me: