Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy
“Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens.”
― Carl Jung
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy is a form of Depth Psychology, rooted in the belief that understanding the unconscious patterns driving one's life will lead to long-lasting change. We cannot know what unconscious factors are driving our lives because they are, per definition, unconscious. This is where the therapeutic work comes in - I see myself as a guide on your journey to understanding what has been hidden from view.
Together, we will get curious about the patterns or symptoms in your life that may no longer be serving you. Questions and themes that may lead people to a depth psychology approach are: Why do certain relationship patterns continue to repeat themselves in my life? What is the deeper meaning of my life/Why I am here? I want more from my life - why is it so hard for me to get what I want? Symptoms such as depression or anxiety may lead you to this inner work and are often the Psyche's way of waking us up to a deeper life. I also work with trauma, including complex trauma that may have occurred at a young age. My extensive training in Early Childhood/Infant Mental Health gives me a unique perspective in working with adults, as your early relationships are the blueprint for future relationships and ways of being in the world.
Depth Psychology works with dreams, transference and countertransference (dynamics arising between the client and therapist that are connected to patterns in the client’s life) and free association (allowing whatever comes to mind to be spoken). In addition to my training in more classical psychoanalytic theory, I have studied Jung's work for many years and incorporate symbolism, myth and archetypes into this approach. I value Jung's approach to the spiritual life, and work with many adults who would like to go deeper in their understanding of their spiritual lives. I also include parts work/inner child work.
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There is a saying attributed to Jung: "Know all the theories, master all the techniques, but as you touch a human soul be just another human soul.” I honor this approach, and I come to this work with many years of training and study, as well as my own extensive inner work. It takes courage and faith to engage in this form of therapy. I believe that taking the step to begin your journey to truly knowing your Self is the greatest journey you can take, and I am honored to walk it with you.
This modality of therapy is offered between 1 to 3 times per week, as needed. We will discuss your specific needs and wishes together in the initial sessions. To learn more about this modality of therapy, the American Psychoanalytic Association provides helpful information here. My approach is a combination of this modality with Jungian principles.
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Please reach out with any questions you may have. I am happy to offer a 15-minute free initial consultation.