ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how Scientology auditing differs from counselling in its usual sense, and also from pastoral counselling as described by some of the more common definitions, even though some of the incidental effects of auditing encompass the purpose of counselling and pastoral counselling. This is without derogating Scientology auditing from its religious status and concern. Counselling is usually defined in English dictionaries as the provision of professional assistance and guidance in resolving personal or psychological problems. Auditing was, and is, central to the religious practice of Scientology, and has been described as a sacrament, 'a process by which one becomes aware of the hidden spiritual barriers that keep one from becoming aware of one's essential spiritual nature as a thetan and from properly exercising that nature'. Scientology is an applied religious philosophy which encompasses all the facts of life. Scientology auditing is more than a form of counselling, it is undoubtedly a method of salvation.
