Individuation, the lifelong development of the personality, is central to Jung’s psychology. It is the process of becoming the person one is innately meant to be. While aspects of this concept have been embraced by popular culture, the true depth and scope of Jung’s theory require a much closer examination. Rather than merely describing a glorified version of self-improvement, individuationdescribes a far more intricate process of self-realization and transformation. We will explore the rich aspects of this theory, the integral role that shadow plays, the animus/anima, the Self, dreams and active imagination. In addition, we will examine some archetypal material that illuminates this process.
Stephen Kenneally, MA, MFT,, has been involved with Jungian work for over 20 years. In addition to his training at the C.G. Jung Institute of Los Angeles, he lived for 2 years at the Shalom Retreat Center, an archetypally based experiential retreat center guided by the works of Jung. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist he worked as an investment banker in New York where he encountered firsthand the perils of work not aligned with the soul. He currently has a private practice in Santa Monica and teaches at Antioch University and Counseling West.