Category Archives: shadow work

Therapies compared

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely-used, evidence-based psychotherapy focused on identifying and modifying negative thought patterns and behaviours. It operates on the premise that thoughts, emotions, and behaviours are interconnected, and by changing maladaptive thinking, one can improve emotional responses and behavior. Key methodologies include cognitive restructuring, behavioural activation, and exposure therapy. Cognitive restructuring helps clients challenge irrational or distorted thinking, while behavioural activation focuses on increasing engagement in positive activities to combat avoidance and depression. Exposure therapy is used to reduce anxiety through gradual exposure to feared situations.

CBT is highly effective for treating a range of issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and phobias. It is a short-term, goal-oriented therapy, often lasting around 12-20 sessions. Its structured, practical approach allows clients to develop skills they can use long after therapy ends. One of its greatest strengths is its emphasis on empowering clients with tools for self-management. However, some critics argue that CBT can be too focused on symptoms rather than underlying causes, and its highly structured nature may not appeal to individuals seeking deeper emotional or existential exploration. Despite this, its proven track record makes it one of the most popular and effective therapies in the modern therapeutic landscape.

Shadow Work

Shadow Work is a therapeutic and self-discovery process rooted in Jungian psychology, focused on exploring and integrating the “shadow”—the unconscious, repressed parts of the self. These are aspects of personality that have been rejected or hidden due to societal, familial, or personal pressures. Through a series of active processes, clients engage with their shadow to bring these repressed elements into conscious awareness. The goal is to achieve greater self-integration, self-acceptance, and emotional healing by confronting and embracing these hidden aspects.

Shadow Work is particularly effective for those dealing with emotional blockages, unresolved trauma, or self-sabotaging behaviours. It allows for a deep exploration of the unconscious, promoting personal growth and self-awareness. The main strength of Shadow Work is that it is deep psychotherapy: in this fact lies in its potential for profound psychological and emotional transformation, which often leads to a sense of inner wholeness. However, the process can be emotionally intense and is generally longer-term than other therapies, which may not be suitable for clients looking for quick solutions. Additionally, Shadow Work requires a high level of commitment and openness to deep emotional exploration, which can be challenging for some individuals. While not as empirically validated as CBT, it is highly valued in depth psychology and spiritual communities for its transformative power.

A film about shadow work


https://youtu.be/iH0UEkufz_Q

How to train as a shadow work practitioner


https://www.youtube.com/embed/kXr4T4kUh4s

Archetypal Coaching

Archetypal coaching draws on the psychological theories of Carl Jung and the concept of archetypes—universal symbols and patterns of behaviour present in the collective unconscious. Archetypal coaching uses models such as the King, Warrior, Magician, and Lover archetypes to help individuals understand their current roles, strengths, and challenges. By identifying which archetypes are active or suppressed in a person’s life, clients gain insight into their behavior and mindset, allowing them to achieve greater balance and fulfilment. Coaches often use techniques like guided imagery, symbolic exploration, and role-play to engage with these archetypal energies.

Archetypal coaching is effective for clients seeking self-awareness, personal development, and spiritual growth. It is particularly useful in leadership and life transitions, helping individuals recognize patterns that may be influencing their professional or personal lives. The main strength of this approach is its ability to connect clients with larger, universal themes, offering a broader perspective on personal challenges. However, archetypal coaching may not appeal to individuals looking for a more conventional or evidence-based approach to therapy. Since it leans heavily on symbolic language, it can sometimes feel abstract or esoteric for those not inclined toward depth psychology or spiritual exploration. Additionally, while it can offer profound insights, it lacks the structured methodologies found in more traditional coaching or therapeutic approaches.

Transactional Analysis (TA)

Transactional Analysis (TA) is a psychotherapeutic framework developed by Eric Berne that focuses on understanding the dynamics of human interactions, known as “transactions.” TA posits that people operate from one of three ego states: Parent, Adult or Child. The Parent state consists of learned attitudes from authority figures, the Adult is rational and present-focused, and the Child is driven by emotions and past experiences. TA aims to help clients recognize which ego state they are operating from in different situations, enabling them to resolve interpersonal conflicts and improve communication. Common techniques include ego-state analysis, script analysis, and contracting to set clear therapeutic goals.

TA is effective for individuals dealing with relationship issues, self-sabotaging behaviours, and communication problems. It is often used in both individual and group therapy settings. TA’s strengths include its practical focus on improving communication and decision-making, and its emphasis on empowering clients to become more autonomous, as well as its human and person centred approach.

However, some critics find its framework somewhat simplistic and rigid, especially for dealing with deeper emotional or unconscious material. While TA is a structured and accessible approach, it may not fully address the complexities of trauma or deep psychological wounds in the way that Shadow Work, Archetypal Coaching using the model of King archetype, Magician archetype, Lover archetype and Warrior archetype  (or even some psychoanalytic therapies) can. Nonetheless, TA remains a valuable tool for enhancing self-awareness and improving interpersonal relationships.