[2][3][4][5] The study of metaphysics is centered on spiritual (not necessarily religious) matters and positive thinking.

[7] In 1938 the United States Department of the Interior published a book listing the "Doctor of Metaphysics" degree in a section written by Walton C. John, titled "Counterfeit Degrees".

[8] A 1960 American Psychologist article titled, "Mail-order training in psychotherapy," warned against unaccredited schools purporting to offer "training in a variety of psychological and metapsychological methods" and awarding a Doctor of Metaphysics degree.

[2] In the field of social work there are counselors who claim the title "Doctor of Metaphysics".

The article warned that the majority of doctoral programs in metaphysics are little more than diploma mills which require few prerequisites other than money.