Christopher Hansard
Date: February 17, 2007 02:58AM
This is my first post. I am an ex-apprentice of Christopher Hansard.
In reading through this forum, I have been struck by how black and white the debate seems to be. Christopher seems to be depicted as a manipulative, abusive, charlatan or a powerful and compassionate healer who has improved the physical and mental health of many.
I wonder whether it is possible that there is some truth in both arguments.
In my experience, CH was able to somehow 'read' personal information about people. He was very charismatic, insightful and compassionate. Irrespective of his school of teaching, he was able to provide treatments which were hugely helpful to a significant proportion of his clients.
However, I also had personal experiences of CH's faults: being drunk at the clinic, being very scary when he was angry and being sexually inappropriate.
There was also a culture of secrecy within the clinic. It was difficult to challenge or criticise him, either directly or in private discussions with other apprentices. There was always a sense that he would find out / know what you'd said or that questioning your faith in CH's teachings was inappropriate. In this respect, it did feel like a cult. I think this is probably why Pema is struggling to find people who will go on record.
I am shaking even as I write this anonymously.
Having left the clinic some years ago, I now view CH as a talented healer / therapist who abused the power that he gained from these abilities.
I am pleased for those who have benefitted from his practice and sorry that others have been hurt or abused by him. Mostly, I am glad that this debate is finally taking place.