Can anyone point me to canon examples of heroes or villains learning mental powers, rather that casting spells, being mutants (etc.), or having advanced tech?

The textbook, and possible ur-example, is Dr. Doom learning mind transferal from the Ovoids.

Patsy Walker, aka Hellcat, went to Titan with Moondragon and learned some mental powers way back in the beginning of her Hellcat career.

And in turn, Moondragon learned her immense mental powers via training with the Priests of Shao-lom, and possibly the Titanian Eternals, with whom she's spent time. Her cousin, Pamela Douglas (aka Sundragon), in turn learned to develop mental powers from Moondragon, much as Patsy Walker/Hellcat did.

I don't remember if Topaz was -born- with her powers as a mystical alternation, OR if she studied Indian / Hindu mysticism to gain them. Her history's almost as convoluted as Betsy Braddock/Psylocke!

Cheers,

Niniri

I'd forgotten about the Hellcat/Moondragon/Sundragon experience. I...think OHOTMUDE listed Moondragon as a latent mutant, but those are packed away. But training to bring out latent mutant abilities counts!

My experience with Topaz is limited, but I remember her from one of the handbooks. I remember mystic heritage and empathic abilities. I think those could be learned as well.

Anybody else got some to add?

Dr. Doom learned his mental transference power from aliens.

I believe Dr. Strange's astral projection was learned and isn't a magical power.