Jungian Analysis
Jungian analysis, which is also called Jungian psychoanalysis, analytical psychology or depth psychology, is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on difficulties, imbalances, stresses, traumas, and or existential or spiritual questions an individual might be struggling with in their inner and or outer life. It is a process which embraces the whole individual, their life history, any unconscious material that comes forward into consciousness such as dreams, visions, fantasies, etc., and which explores any emotions, thoughts, feelings, experiences or focusses the client brings into their analytical sessions.
In an analysis it becomes possible to work at uncovering the underlying dynamics that led to life challenges forming in the first place. This process, which supports the individual coming to understand the roots of their suffering and struggles, allows for deep growth to take place. It can also be very helpful to explore an individual’s nighttime dreams, to better understand the vital relationship between their consciousness and unconscious. The process of analysis can also work with larger existential inquiries such as, the meaning of life, the individual’s path of life, illness, loss, death, love, spirituality and the great mystery.
The Jungian analyst is deeply trained to work with clients at the specific place they find themselves to be, and to support and facilitate their personal healing and growth. And while analysis often takes the form of talk therapy, when the imagination enters into the process, expressive forms such as writing, drawing, painting, collaging, sand tray, active imagination, psycho-drama, voice dialogue, mindfulness practices, etc., can be used to support the therapeutic, healing process.
‘Jungian’ refers to the work of Dr. Carl Gustav Jung (1875-1961), the internationally acclaimed, Swiss psychiatrist and depth psychologist. And ‘analysis’, in this context refers to what is called ‘psychoanalysis’. By ‘psychoanalysis’ we generally mean a therapeutic method that addresses human problems, imbalances and suffering, by investigating the interaction of conscious and unconscious material, and by bringing the latter into consciousness. An example of this would be, coming to better understand the underlying and not yet conscious meaning of a symptom or problem such as depression or anxiety. In the process of becoming more conscious about a psychological dynamic and its roots; balancing, healing and growth begins to occur.
Jungian analytical sessions typically take place once per week, depending on the needs of the client. If an individual is experiencing a great deal of suffering and psychological pressure, it can be advisable to have a few sessions per week until they are able to gain some perspective and greater balance. Individuals who have done enough analytical work to feel more grounded, may choose to come to analysis every two weeks. And some clients who have done a great deal of work and established enough well-being, might wish to have a session once per month or once in a while, to stay connected to the deep, inner process.
When a piece of psychological work has been completed, some clients terminate the sessions, and may or may not return at a later date to deepen their understanding, or to take a look at other issues that have arisen. Each individual is unique in their needs, and thus the course of analysis can vary in frequency and style from client to client.
In a session, the client and analyst explore what the client is searching to understand, balance, heal and or develop within themselves. The Jungian analyst brings their years of professional experience, insights from Jungian analytical theory, from psychoanalytical and psychological theory, from philosophy and other fields of inquiry that enliven them, and from their own deeply explored and lived humanity, to bear on the client’s concerns.