“Loneliness does not come from having no people about one, but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to oneself, or from holding certain views which others find inadmissible.” C. G. Jung (1961).
Analytical psychotherapy, sometimes call Jungian therapy is an approach developed by Carl Jung (1875-1961). It attempts to bring the conscious and the unconscious into balance to help individuals feel more balanced and whole. Jungian psychotherapy aims to align conscious and unconscious thoughts. It examines the motivations that lie deep within the client’s psyche and underneath client’s conscious awareness. Jungian therapy draws on dream analysis, word associations and creative activities such as painting, drama, dance and music.
Who can benefit from Jungian therapy?
Jungian therapy may be valuable for those experiencing mental health conditions and psychological problems including:
- Depression
- Phobias
- Anxiety
- Personality disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Compulsive behavior patterns
- Substance use and addiction
Other issues that can benefit from Jungian therapy
While those with mental health problems often experience significant improvements, a diagnosis is not a requirement to experience its benefits. It may also benefit those experiencing:
- Interpersonal problems
- Destructive relationship patterns
- Intimacy problems
Generally speaking, Jungian therapy can benefit anyone who wants to understand themselves better and gain conscious awareness of the parts of the self that make up the whole.
What to expect in Jungian psychotherapy?
Jungian psychotherapy, like many treatments, involves speaking with a therapist. Your Jungian therapist may ask you to start dream journaling and reflect on what your dreams represent. You may also be asked to tap into your creativity and express yourself artistically.
Additionally, Jungian analysts often use association tests where the therapist says a word, and you name the first idea that comes to your mind. Your counselor can try to interpret your responses as a Jungian analyst to make inferences about your unconscious thoughts or desires. However, at its core, Jungian therapy is about self-knowledge.