Analytical Psychology, or "complex psychology", is the foundation of many developments in the study and practice of Psychology and Psychotherapy as practiced today.
Widely used concepts stemming specifically from Analytical Psychology include: anima and animus, archetypes, the collective unconscious, complexes, extraversion and introversion, individuation, the Self, the shadow and synchronicity. The Myers–Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) widely used as a personality inventory is based on Jung's theories on psychological types.
Jung's theories developed from a clinical practice which was mainly traditionally science-based, steeped in rationalist philosophy, anthropology and ethnography. But his enquiring mind simultaneously took him into more esoteric spheres such as alchemy, astrology, gnosticism, metaphysics, myth and the paranormal - without abandoning his allegiance to science, as his long-lasting collaboration with physicist Wolfgang Pauli attests.
The findings of Jungian analysis and the application of analytical psychology to contemporary life extend to a wide varieties of life including personal, social and family relationships; dreams and nightmares; work-life balance; architecture and urban planning; politics and economics; conflict and warfare; ecopsychology and climate change.
I like to adopt some Jungian concepts and principles in my work, when it might help. This might include looking at dreams, exploring synchronous events in life and considering the spiritual elements of life and nature.
