Jungian therapy originated before the 1950s in the writings of Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung. As a form of psychotherapy, it focuses on the divine aspect of psychology. During his years of research and practice, Carl realized that many of his patients suffer from deep-rooted feelings of inadequacy and gloominess. He stated that psychology is overlooking the significance of the ‘human self.’ Jungian therapy helps people find their true selves through introspection or self-observation. It uses instruments like art so that patients can make contact with their deep thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. One way is to involve the unconscious mind, which Carl believes plays a significant role in shaping people’s behaviour and thoughts. People who have to put up with issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem can benefit from Jungian treatment because it focuses on a person’s individuality and not just their symptoms.
Jungian psychology believes that when an individual’s natural tendency to develop into one’s authenticated self is blocked, mental health issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, etc., start circling him. Healing here requires exploring your true self and finding opportunities to increase your capacity for humility, independence, authority, and more. This approach follows a prospective methodology, focusing on forwarding and backward aspects. The unconscious mind is potent enough to be an ally and source of wisdom in human psychological development.
Jungian Therapy Techniques
Unlike other manualized approaches, Jungian therapy holistically cultivates wellness in overall personality. The procedure also varies from individual to individual based on their specific needs. It involves working around dreams, mythology, and symbols. An experienced therapist will help the client explore these concepts and build an understanding of them. Though it is a lengthy process, it will undoubtedly uncover all of the unconscious material influencing a person’s life.
Here’s a list of techniques that a Jungian therapist can use:
- Art: art is like a mirror that allows access to the unconscious mind and lets an individual explore what else is inside. It involves the exploration of one’s self-image through symbols and themes that emerge during a particular problem.
- Analysis of dreams: dreams reflect our external and internal experiences. During dream analysis, you need to keep a notebook closer because your memory of dreams may fade away sooner, and your therapist will lose crucial details that can help in your treatment.
- Active imagination: It is an excellent technique that allows you to take your imagination to another level by focusing on the representation of unconscious material. Here, you can explore and understand what that material meant for you.
- Word association: It is like a game of the rapid-fire round, where you need to say the first word you get in your mind after hearing another word. This technique allows your therapist to understand your unconscious thoughts and feelings influencing your behaviour.
How can Jungian therapy help
Until now, you must have been clear about what Jungian therapy can do for you. It is most effective for individuals interested in self-exploration and personal growth. As a therapy, it allows you to understand yourself better by looking deep inside yourself.
In addition, it can also help you in resolving emotional or psychological issues. Though it may allow you to address your emotional problems, it is just a tool and not a cure-it-all. It can effectively help you delve into your psyche and heal the part that requires healing.
Your Jungian therapist will provide you with an opportunity to discover the underlying causes of your mental and emotional issues through art, dreams, and active imagination. Jungian therapy may be used for the following psychological disorders, depression, anxiety, Obsessive-compulsive disorder, Phobias, Personality disorders, Psychosomatic illnesses, depression, and anxiety.
Benefits of Jungian therapy
Jungian therapy can benefit you in finding your true self by peeling off the layers of your psyche and discovering the hidden parts about you. Once you get a deep insight into your subconscious mind, you may feel a positive energy that can inspire you.
It also allows you to be comfortable with your friends and family to talk about an issue you are otherwise hesitant to speak about. Your therapist never judges you for any of your choices and decisions. The therapist’s responsibility is to let you explore difficult emotions and memories without any fear of censure or repercussions.
It can help you build a purposeful life by bringing the big picture in front of you. As humans are interconnected, you’ll learn what role you play in the lives of people near you and the planet. Though Jungian therapy does not provide a quick-fix solution, the time and money you invest in this therapy will add value to your life.
Effectiveness of Jungian Therapy
One can measure Jungian therapy’s effectiveness based on the degree of improvement in the level of symptoms, interpersonal problems, and personality structure. Patients also witness a reduction in the utilization of health care resources. Overall, patients could move a level up from the severe symptoms to psychological health.
Things to Consider
While Jungian therapy is efficient in self-exploration, it may still not be the right choice. These cases may depend on your nature. For instance, not everyone is comfortable with symbolism, metaphors, and the subjective nature of experiences. Also, for any psychotherapy finding the right therapist can be tricky. So, do your research and then go to the therapist.
Bottomline!
After finding a qualified therapist, it’s time to move on the path of self-discovery. Therapists may ask you questions about your family background, symptoms, and concerns to determine the most helpful approach for you. The course of Jungian therapy is quite long, but patience is worth the wait. It will give you in-depth results. It is an excellent way to delve into your subconscious and not just deal with issues at the surface level. If you need advice, visit our website.
