For Jung, his theory of complexes was so important that he originally called his theory “complex psychology.” This training reviews Jung’s concept of complexes which was introduced in the Jungian Theory training. We will explore the qualities of unintegrated complexes, and ways in which they might get our attention. We will use trauma theory, neuroscience and psychoanalysis to more deeply understand complexes through a variety of lenses. We will understand sandplay case material by focusing on a complex and witness not only the original wounding and archetypal core, but also the layers of defense, the gradual opening up, differentiating and transformation of a complex through images in the sand. We will also explore one of our own complexes through written exercises, art, sandplay figures and small group work.
Learning Objectives
- Define “complex” in your own words
- Describe how unintegrated complexes show themselves to the conscious mind
- Explain the function of the ego in working with complexes
- Discuss the qualities of a “strong ego” as it integrates a complex
- List two terms that neuroscience uses to describe a constellated complex.
Linda Cunningham, PhD, MFT, MHC, CST-T is a certified teaching member of STA & ISST and the author of Sandplay and the Clinical Relationship (2013). Over the past twenty years, she has written many articles for the Journal of Sandplay Therapy on the topic of the therapeutic relationship in sandplay and is a frequent presenter at conferences. Dr. Cunningham currently gives sandplay trainings online to an international audience. Dr. Cunningham works with adults suffering from anxiety, depression, blocked creativity, relationship issues and early relational trauma. www.sandplaytrainingworldwide.com. linda@drlindacunningham.com