I believe I know the answer to this but just to verify, when casting an area spell that affect nearby allies, does it also affect self? The spell I am thinking of is Cleansing Ritual which "heals nearby allies". Do you also get healed for casting that?

Thank you

No one knows for sure if spells that affect allies in an area also affect yourself?

I believe they do. The best way to tell, if it has a duration, cast it then check your character menu. The healing will appear in your active effects list if it indeed affects you.

I can only say from Nightblade experience here, but i know for a fact if my skill effects others healing-wise, it also effects me.

Can't see it being different for more straight-up healing skills.

if you are within the area then yes.

AFAIK all abilities that say they affect allies may also affect yourself.

I did not get a chance to test Cleansing Ritual specifically, but I know for sure that the other Templar skills in that skill line (that are AOE), also affect the caster. Of course Healing Ritual specifically mentions self, but the ultimate (Rite of Passage) only states allies, and it most definitely includes self.