Jungian analysis involves a depth exploration of the unconscious. It is the hero's or heroine's journey into the underworld. The aim is to recognise and resolve whatever issues are blocking the 'individution process'. This process involves developing a closer relationship with the Self... your true identity at depth. As with the entrance to underworld of Greek mythology which warns “abandon hope all ye who enter here” the depths of your psyche is a domain in which your conscious waking self holds no sway... and indeed it may undergo a symbolic death in order to facilitate a new conscious perspective. Analysis can feel scary – but the threat is imagined rather than real. It can always feels difficult to let go of what we are familiar with, even though what is familiar might involve an internal imprisonment.

Behind your individual personal psychology are general patterns of thought and behaviour that have been experienced and expressed since the beginning of mankind. An understanding of these patterns, found the world over in myths, fairy tales and religions, manifestations of what Jung called the archetypes, gives one a perspective on mundane reality. A knowledge of archetypes and archetypal patterns is a kind of blueprint which can be overlaid on an individual situation. It is an indispensable tool, and an overtone that fundamentally distinguishes Jungian analysis from any other form of therapy.