Experiencing the Spiritual Psyche: Reflections on Synchronicity-Informed Psychotherapy

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper explores spiritual dimensions of the psyche as originally conceptualized by Jung, including its intimate ties to our humanity as well as its relationship with mysticism, numinosity, and the religious attitude. Additional ideas from other psychoanalysts and within depth psychology regarding spirituality, mysticism, and the spiritual psyche, are surveyed and illustrated by personal and professional examples. The paper draws on experiential evidence and emphasizes knowing the spiritual psyche from real lived experiences, especially as expressed through synchronicities. This paper notes limitations of evidence-based therapy and introduces the term synchronicity-informed psychotherapy as a legitimate focus of therapy and analysis particularly as a way to know and engage with the spiritual psyche.