Finding Spiritual Healing in Scarsdale

The art and skill of psychic reading is often associated with horror films, novelty items, and the supernatural – think Poltergeist, crystal balls, and Professor Trelawney from the uber-popular Harry Potter series.

These are misconceptions, if you ask anyone at Traprock Suite, which has been a fixture in the Scarsdale community for over 30 years for those interested in the psychic arena and other channels of spiritual healing.

"It [Traprock Suite] is a center and embassy of light," said Susanne Whittle, owner of Traprock Suite. "People come in here when they are sad, have negative energy or have lost track of themselves. We support people."

When Traprock Suite originally opened, the former owners carried mostly Native American and turquoise jewelry and imported ethnic clothing. It was Whittle who took the store down the metaphysical path by introducing tarot readings. And, eventually, she transformed Traprock Suite, also known as "The Rock," into the spiritual haven she now owns.

Whittle explained, "It was a harmonic convergence. A huge spiritual awakening took place on the planet. Traprock Suite became more of a place for healing and spiritual awareness."

Since she was 19 years old, Whittle has been developing and mastering her psychic ability. She identifies herself as having a warrior energy, being able to go up against dark things. "I've never met anything that can stand up to me," she exclaimed.

Whittle and her trusty staff of two each bring their own expertise and talent. Whittle is a Reiki Master (ancient Japanese healing technique involving massage therapy and deep relaxation), and a Spiritual Counselor.

She also performs house/building cleansings and blessings along with employee Eileen Rooney. Rooney is a Spiritual Reader and energy worker. Finally, employee Christian J. J. Clark is a Transcendental Reiki Master and a Minister in the Order of Melchizedek.

The three of them do their best to help anyone who finds their way into the store. There is no "typical" customer, they say, or targeted age: They have helped younger children protect themselves from nightmares, cleansed family homes and businesses, and guided adults going through difficult times.

"Traprock Suite is for anyone," said Whittle. "If they don't have a clue about their purpose, want to have knowledge of themselves, if they don't know anything about anything, or need clarity. Especially right now with the economy, people are turning to the metaphysical, because they are looking for answers."

"The Rock" has a dedicated fan base. Some of its loyal followers have even created a Facebook group page. Over 50 past employees (going as far back as 1989) and customers have joined so far.

Whittle, herself, is not technology savvy, but the group page creator and employee Clark make sure to show her all the love and expressions of thanks that group members leave on the discussion board.

After seeing the Facebook group page, speaking with Susanne Whittle over the phone, and browsing the store's website, I made a visit Traprock Suite. Whittle had given me notice, "It is an other worldly feeling when you are here. People find peace here."

I walked up to the store, and was greeted by Whittle, Rooney and Clark sitting outside enjoying the warm weather. I followed Rooney inside, and I was immediately hit with the overwhelming woodsy smell from the incense. I was shown around the store to see all the various products sold at Traprock Suite.

Healing oils, incense, candles charged with different healing energies, dream pillows, crystals (accompanied with its definitions and uses), angelic statues, statuary carvings, dream catchers, tarot cards, and jewelry line the walls and displays.

In the back of the store were reading rooms and an altar.

Whittle enterd the store and wanted to show me her gift wrapping skills. She explained that every gift was wrapped with love and beauty, no matter the price of the item. She sat down at her wrapping station surrounded by wrapping paper and ribbons in a multitude of colors – teal, royal purple, jade, lilac, and cerulean. When she finished, the jewelry box was wrapped with ornate flare.

Rooney then offered to do a 15-minute present tarot reading for me. I was nervous, imagining notions of negative (illness and death) predictions appearing in the tarot cards. I was pleasantly surprised. She offered positive guidance on how to wipe away the antagonistic energy surrounding my life and any self-doubt I was feeling.

Admittedly, I left Traprock Suite feeling upbeat and confident. I do not think I will become a loyal customer in the near future, but I have no doubt that, as Whittle says,"The Rock" is a haven for seekers of truth and a healing place for eliminating negative thoughts. I am sure that for many in Scarsdale and beyond, the employees indeed serve as healers and guides for self-awareness and enlightenment.

Reiki, Spiritual Guidance session:  $40 to $120 (depends on length/expertise)

Sweepings: $60 to $95 (depending on length of session)

House Blessing instruction: $45 per person

Reiki Group and Individual Classes are also available.

Inquire about the Suite's complementary mini Reiki session.