What is a Therian, and what is an Otherkin?

Raven Sabo: Ask four different people involved in Wicca, the occult, or the paranormal that question and you could easily get seven or eight answers. I will answer the second question first, as Therians are considered a type of Otherkin. Otherkin can be defined as individuals who believe or have experiences leading them to consider themselves as having souls or natures that are different from the norm. There are several different subtypes of Otherkin, and there is some debate about how many subtypes there are. Some that are more commonly spoken of are Elves, who have different variations on the historical lore of the elves of different cultures. Certain people who have past life memories may feel more drawn to the label of the Norse Alfar or Light Elves, while others may have more memories and resonance of the Celtic Tuatha De Danaan. Therians have a deep spiritual and intellectual connection to one or more animals. They may experience periods where their mental point of view changes ...  more