Story Shadow
Your favorite story knows more about you than you think.
Get a $35 story-based insight session to unlock your next step.
About me
•Story Shadow Readings
•Psychological Tarot
•Creative consultations
•Custom healing stories
and more.
I believe the stories that haunt us most are trying to heal us.
For over a decade, I've been exploring the psychology behind storytelling - both as a horror writer and as someone who reads stories like others read tarot cards. I've discovered that the narratives we can't let go of aren't random choices. They're mirrors reflecting our deepest patterns, fears, and the healing our souls are seeking.
My approach combines a writer's understanding of narrative psychology with shadow work and depth psychology principles. I don't just analyze stories - I help people decode what their favorite narratives reveal about their unconscious mind, their growth edges, and the wisdom they're ready to embrace.
Whether through Story Shadow readings, psychological tarot, or custom healing stories, my work centers on one belief: the darkness we're most afraid to examine often contains the medicine we most need."
Testimonials
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“I’ve been stuck on the same painting for months. One Story Shadow session, and suddenly I understood what it was really about—and why I couldn’t finish it. Derrick helped me find the story under the surface. I finished the piece three days later.”
—Lana M., Visual Artist
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“After my mom died, I couldn’t feel anything except numb. The healing story I received helped me cry for the first time in weeks. It didn’t offer answers—it gave me meaning. That was exactly what I needed.”
—Jared T., Educator
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“I’ve been in therapy on and off for years. This was different. It felt like having a conversation with my unconscious—but through a story I already loved. I walked away with insights that hadn’t come up in months of sessions.”
—Maya K., Writer & Musician
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“Honestly, I was skeptical. But Derrick didn’t just ‘read’ a story—he opened it up like a mirror. I saw myself in ways I didn’t expect. Now I’m re-reading books I love with entirely new eyes.”
—Shawn D., UX Designer
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interpretation but grounded in the stories I care about. I keep coming back because it’s personal, poetic, and practical all at once.”
—Aria L., Freelance Filmmaker
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“I’ve had a lot of tarot readings before, but this one was different. Derrick didn’t just interpret the cards—he connected them to my creative blocks and personal story in a way that felt grounded and deeply insightful. It wasn’t vague or mystical fluff; it was like therapy through archetypes. I left feeling seen, not just predicted.”
—Elena R., Screenwriter
My services
Story Mirror readings
Discover what your favorite story reveals about your psychology and inner patterns.
Psychological tarot
Pattern recognition and shadow work through cards, not fortune-telling.
Creative consultations
Explore the unconscious themes and blocks in your artistic work.
Custom healing stories
Personalized therapeutic fiction written for your specific growth journey
And more
Because every psyche has its own unique path to understanding
15-20 minute personalized psychological story analysis delivered in 48 hours
“Until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate.”
Divination and healing like you’ve never experienced before.
What Story Shadows reveal:
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Psychological Patterns
Recurring life themes
Unconscious motivations
Growth edges
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Story Connections
Why certain narratives call to you
Character identification patterns
Plot resonance meanings
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Shadow Elements
Hidden aspects seeking integration
Avoided emotions and experiences
Suppressed parts of self
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Growth Opportunities
Ready-to-emerge potential
Next steps in development
Healing pathways
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Creative Themes
Artistic recurring motifs
Creative blocks and breakthroughs
Authentic expression pathways
The Story Shadows Approach
Insightful
Every reading reveals patterns you might not see on your own. I use psychological training and narrative expertise to uncover what your story choices reveal about your unconscious mind.
Authenic
No generic interpretations or fortune-telling clichés. Each analysis is grounded in your genuine connection to specific stories and what that reveals about your unique psychological landscape.
Transformative
Beyond entertainment or academic analysis, Story Shadows provides practical insights for personal growth, shadow integration, and understanding your deepest patterns.
Frequently asked questions
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STORY SHADOWS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
🔮 ABOUT THE SERVICE
What exactly is a "Story Shadow Reading"?
A Story Shadow Reading is psychological analysis of what your favorite story reveals about your unconscious patterns, fears, desires, and growth edges. I analyze why certain narratives call to you and what that connection says about your inner landscape. Think of it as divination through stories rather than tarot cards.
How is this different from literary analysis or book reviews?
Literary analysis focuses on the story itself - themes, symbolism, craft. Story Shadow Readings focus on YOU - what your connection to specific stories reveals about your psychology, patterns, and personal growth opportunities. It's insight work, not academic analysis.
Is this therapy?
No, I'm not a licensed therapist. Story Shadows is narrative divination - using your story choices as a tool for personal insight, similar to how tarot readers use cards. If you're dealing with mental health concerns, please consult a licensed professional.
What makes you qualified to do this?
I'm a horror writer with over a decade of experience analyzing narrative psychology. I understand both the craft of storytelling and the psychological patterns that make certain stories resonate with different people. My background combines creative writing, shadow work, and deep study of how stories function psychologically.
📖 HOW IT WORKS
What stories can I choose?
Any story that genuinely matters to you - books, movies, TV series, graphic novels, even fanfiction. The only requirement is that it has emotional significance for you. It could be something you reread/rewatch, something that changed you, or something you can't stop thinking about.
What if you're not familiar with my chosen story?
If I know the story, you'll get your reading within 48 hours. If I need to read/watch it first, delivery takes 3-7 days depending on the length. I'll let you know the timeline when you submit your request.
How long are the readings?
Story Shadow Readings are 15-20 minutes of personalized audio analysis. Live sessions (tarot, consultations) are 30-60 minutes depending on the service.
What will you ask me about my story?
After purchase, you'll receive a brief form asking for the story title, why it matters to you, what draws you to it most, and any specific characters or scenes that resonate. This helps me focus the analysis on your particular connection.
🎯 WHAT TO EXPECT
What will my reading cover?
Your reading will explore the psychological themes you're working through, shadow elements ready for integration, hidden desires your unconscious is expressing, and what your connection to this story suggests about your growth edge. Each reading is completely personalized.
Will you spoil the story for others?
Readings focus on psychological insights rather than plot details, but some story elements may be discussed. Readings are private and only delivered to you.
What if I don't agree with your interpretation?
These are insights and perspectives, not absolute truths. Take what resonates and leave what doesn't. The goal is to offer a new lens for understanding your story connection, not to be definitively "right" about your psychology.
Can I request a reading for the same story multiple times?
You could, but I'd recommend exploring different stories to understand various aspects of your psychological landscape. Your connection to the same story may evolve over time, though.
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Why do live sessions cost more than audio readings?
Live sessions provide real-time interaction, the ability to ask questions, and immediate clarification. They also include my full attention for the session duration plus preparation time.
Do you offer refunds?
For Story Shadow Readings: If I can't provide meaningful insight into your chosen story, I'll offer a full refund. For live sessions: 24-hour cancellation policy for full refund. No-shows are subject to 50% charge.
Can I share my reading with others?
Your reading is created for you personally, but you're welcome to share insights or the full recording with trusted friends or family if you find it helpful.
Do you offer payment plans?
Not currently, but I do offer package deals that provide better value for multiple services.
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How do you protect my privacy?
All readings and sessions are completely confidential. I never share client information, story choices, or insights without explicit permission. Your personal information is stored securely and never sold or shared.
Will you judge my story choices?
Absolutely not. I approach every story choice with curiosity and respect. There are no "good" or "bad" story choices - only insights to be discovered.
What if my story choice is embarrassing?
I've analyzed everything from literary classics to reality TV to fanfiction. Every story choice is valid and interesting from a psychological perspective. No judgment, only insight.
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What time zones do you work in?
I'm based in Pacific Time (PT) and offer live sessions Tuesday-Sunday. Booking calendar shows times in your local timezone automatically.
How far in advance should I book?
For Story Shadow Readings (audio): Usually fulfilled within 48 hours to 7 days. For live sessions: 48-72 hours advance booking recommended, though same-day Discovery Sessions are sometimes available.
What platform do you use for video sessions?
Zoom or Google Meet, whichever you prefer. Link provided 24 hours before your session.
Do I need to prepare anything for my session?
Just come with your questions and an open mind. For tarot readings, think about what you'd like to explore. For creative consultations, bring examples of your work if helpful.
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Who is Story Shadows best for?
People who feel deep connections to certain stories and want to understand why. Psychology enthusiasts, those doing personal development work, creative professionals exploring themes in their work, and anyone curious about what their narrative choices reveal about their inner world.
Who might not benefit from this service?
People looking for entertainment rather than insight, those who prefer direct advice over symbolic interpretation, or anyone not open to psychological self-exploration.
How often should I book sessions?
There's no required frequency. Some people get one reading and gain lasting insight. Others book monthly sessions as part of ongoing self-development work. Follow your curiosity and budget.
Can you help me choose which service to book?
If you're unsure, start with a Discovery Session ($35, 20 minutes) to experience the approach. For deeper work, consider the Story Shadow Reading ($35) or Psychological Tarot Reading ($65).
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Have a question not covered here?
Email: hello@storyshadows.com
Response time: Within 24 hoursTechnical booking issues?
Available Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm MT
Remember: The stories that call to us most strongly are trying to teach us something essential about ourselves. Story Shadows helps you decode that message.
Still have questions? Reach out!
