Jungian Resurgence and Applicable Constructs

During my graduate program I found myself naturally gravitate to the theories of Carl Jung. Which makes sense for me since I also resonated with similar concepts within Transcendentalism such as the collective unconscious and the panentheistic Gaia model. However, in my Theories class, Jung was not deeply covered since his work is often considered too convoluted for clinical application in psychotherapy, outdated, or seen as sub-par to more evidence based treatments which provide measured progress in a shorter time span as opposed to the stereotypical psychoanalytical process which can sometimes span years or even decades. This left me to pursue additional education on the subject after graduation, and since the typical path to becoming a Jungian Analyst can be grueling and expensive, I found the Zur Institute program for Jungian Psychology put together by the host of the popular podcast Shrink Rap Radio to be a happy starting point. The courses have equipped me with an introduction to how to apply the lofty and quixotic concepts within the context of the clinical hour.

To my pleasant surprise, I’ve encountered frequent interest from clients into Jungian concepts as well, such as Shadow work, the Hero’s Journey, and the archetypes such as those within the Tarot. In approaching this kind of work with clients, it can be helpful to see a level of interest and insight into the individuation process and consciousness exploration. Once this has been established, the work can begin to delve into the symbolic manifestations of the clients presenting concerns and allow for a more integrated perspective into healing and even spiritual connection or existential excavation of meaning.

Understanding the stages of alchemical consciousness development can often provide a guided path along this journey. In Jung’s understanding these stages can be broken down into four main categories which include: Confession, Elucidation or Illumination, Education, and Transformation. The confession stage often coincides with the client’s acknowledgment of their own suffering and identifying the perpetuating source of this within their own psyche. This can involve discovering the shadow and integrating this knowledge. The elucidation stage allows the client to build conscious awareness into their inner world and how this relates to the outer world through the exploration of dreams and symbolism. The education stage can then lead into developing a framework for understanding dynamics with others through the lens of the Anima and Animus. Lastly, the transformation stage provides the client with the opportunity for individuation and carving out their own path in the world which allows embodiment of their own myth. In facilitating this alchemical process through the therapeutic framework, the client is supported through a safe container which allows for the aforementioned stages to bring forth the natural unfolding of the development of Self.

Written By: Kathryn Post, LMHC Kathryn Post is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor currently in private practice in Jacksonville, Florida. She is a graduate of FSU's Master's of Science and Education Specialist program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, focusing on chronic mental health conditions and wellness management for adults. Kathryn's work focuses on providing individuals the safe space to explore their inner world and work towards their personal goals.