A controversial organization offering training in psychic abilities and spiritual healing.
The Berkeley Psychic Institute (BPI) is a renowned institution in the field of spiritual development and psychic studies, founded in 1973 by Lewis S. Bostwick in Berkeley, California. Since its inception, BPI has made significant contributions to the interfaith movement and the growth of metaphysical institutions, focusing on teaching students to recognize and develop their own psychic abilities.
The institute’s curriculum encompasses a wide range of classes, with the Clairvoyant Training Program being one of the most popular offerings. This one-year intensive program, along with other courses, is designed to help students explore and develop their psychic abilities in a structured environment. BPI’s approach is often described as creating a “psychic kindergarten,” a space for exploring what it means to be psychic.
Over the years, BPI has taught more than 300,000 students through various classes in clairvoyance, meditation, healing, and male and female energy. The institute’s programs cover topics such as aura reading, past life readings, spiritual counseling, chakra balancing, and energy manipulation. BPI emphasizes experiential learning, where students practice psychic readings and healings on each other, helping participants gain confidence in their abilities and deepen their spiritual awareness.
Under the leadership of Lewis S. Bostwick and later his wife, Vr. Rt. Rev Dr. Susan Hull Bostwick, the Berkeley Psychic Institute has expanded its influence. There are now three main locations in Northern California, along with several other groups around the world initiated by former students. The institute has also spawned the Déjà Vu Publishing Company, which produces Psychic Reader Magazine, and organizes special events, psychic entertainment, and spiritual tours.
Teachings
BPI’s teachings draw from various spiritual traditions and philosophies, including New Age beliefs, Eastern spirituality, and Western esotericism. The institute promotes the idea that everyone has innate psychic abilities that can be developed through practice and training. In addition to its educational programs, BPI hosts regular events such as psychic fairs, healing clinics, and meditation circles, providing opportunities for the public to experience the institute’s offerings and receive psychic readings and healings from students and graduates.
The institute’s curriculum also includes teachings on ethics and responsible use of psychic abilities. Students are encouraged to use their skills for the benefit of themselves and others, and are taught the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries and respecting the free will of others when performing readings or healings.
BPI has published several books and educational materials related to its teachings, including guides on psychic development, energy healing, and spiritual growth. These publications serve as supplementary resources for students and allow individuals who are unable to attend classes in person to learn about the institute’s methods and practices.
Some notable members of the Berkeley Psychic Institute include Patrick McAnaney, author of “Dear Psychic,” Helen Palmer, author of Enneagram of Personality-related books, and Jose Stevens, author of The Michael Teachings-related books.
Controversies
Despite its popularity among those interested in psychic phenomena, BPI has faced criticism and controversy. Skeptics question the validity of the psychic abilities taught at the institute and criticize the high cost of its programs. Additionally, some former members have accused the organization of cult-like behavior, alleging that it exerts undue influence over its members and promotes an insular community. However, many current and former students defend the organization, stating that their experiences have been positive and transformative.
Today, the Berkeley Psychic Institute continues to operate, offering classes, workshops, and events for individuals interested in developing their psychic abilities and exploring spiritual growth. While the organization has evolved since its founding in 1973, it remains committed to its core mission of helping people tap into their innate psychic potential and use these abilities for personal and spiritual development.
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