For many individuals, spiritual inspiration, clarity, or epiphany is often preceded by a "dark night of the soul". St. John of the Cross, a Spanish mystic of the 16th century, first described the concept. Today, the phrase "dark night of the soul" is usually associated with the crisis part of the journey to enlightenment. This article defines and presents a study that expands the knowledge base of the "dark night of the soul". The authors discuss how counselors can help clients cope with a dark night crisis. (Contains 2 tables.)