Finding a Magickal Teacher
Jay Barrymore
Finding a qualified Magickal teacher may be easy or difficult, depending on logistics, etc. On top of that, a seeker may ask: How can you tell a good teacher from a mediocre or poor one? Most authors will give warnings and advice on the subject; however, it ultimately falls upon the seeker's intuition.
One of the first things the inquirer should do is ask the prospective teacher about their own training. After running an advertisement in a local metaphysical publication offering training, I was surprised that not one of the 60 inquiries received asked what training I had, who gave it, or for how long! Fortunately, I usually give this information without being asked, but it's important for the seeker to remember to do this. It's dangerous to think that everyone who runs an ad or offers training" is a reputable or reliable individual.
Some people out there are starting Covens and training groups with very little or no training at all. Of course, when an individual lives in a remote area, the only way may be to do-it-yourself. Many such people have been able to teach themselves very well, and in turn teach other people; but this is the exception, not the rule! Often, the do-it-yourself method leaves the person with inadequate areas of knowledge or experience, which could be detrimental if that person plans to teach others.
At one point during our training, my wife and I drove over 200 miles, twice a week, to attend classes and circles with our Wiccan teacher. Of course, it came at great expense, in terms of cost and driving time, among other things. Usually, if something is worth having, a person is not going to get it free. I've had several people tell me that driving 20 miles is too far. These people are not putting much value into what they're seeking.
Many people interested in getting into Magick are very excited. They are anxious to jump on the bandwagon with the first teacher that comes along. The prospective student must be very circumspect before committing to a teacher or training group. It would be better for the student to have no teacher than a poor one. Though, it's not preferable, relying on books and one's own intuition is preferable to getting involved with someone who may exploit you and lead you down the road to who knows where!
An individual should ask the instructor about their personal ethics. Do they practice Black Magick? Do they abide by the harm none principal?
There are many other factors involved such as: what does the teacher want to get out of their relationship with you? For instance, if your prospective teacher insists that you perform an actual Great Rite (sex) during a Dedication or 1st Degree initiation ceremony, that may tell you what the teacher wants out the association.
There are certain times for certain things. Sex Magick and similar forms of ritual are legitimate in many traditions, but are reserved for higher stages of learning. Too often, an Occultist will use the Arts for self-gratification. In Wicca, sex magick, if employed, is done at the 3rd Degree level. In the Magician's Order that my wife and I attended several years ago, Sex Magick was reserved for those in the higher degrees (above 5th, etc.). It took years for a person to get to that phase of training. It was also entirely optional.
Money is also one of those questionable factors. Many Wiccans do not charge for classes (though a reasonable fee may be requested to help pay for materials and the like). With most Magicians, however, one can expect to pay some type of fee, and possibly an expensive one. Intuition (and budget) must balance the seeker’s desire.
The bottom line is to be careful and don't rush! If an individual is meant for a specific group or teacher, they will come together. Check all options. A person's magickal experience should not be one they regret! | 
