WELCOME TO JON PETERS JUNGIAN ANALYST SITE
If you are interested in CG Jung or are looking for a certified Jungian Analyst, I hope you find this site useful.
Jon Peters, Jungian Analyst
Early Career and Transformation
I began my adult career as a professional economist, working at the University of Alaska and later for the State of Oregon. I left that work to start my own business and had some success as a developer and owner of independent living retirement housing facilities. At the age of 35 I experienced what the American psychologist and philosopher William James called a profound and spontaneous religious experience. His book on the subject is titled The Varieties of Religious
Experience: A Study in Human Nature, in which he documents and attempts to analyze numerous similar experiences among common people such as myself and among some well-known public figures.
Academic Journey
It took two years to close out my business activities and I began the study of psychology and religion while doing so. I have continued to study both to this day. My degrees are listed below. They have all been valuable to me, as I have negotiated life. But the five years of study at the CG Jung Institute in Zurich Switzerland is by far the most valuable and even profound formal education experience I have ever received.
The Path to Jung
Like many people, I was drawn to Jung and his work early in life. And, like many, at various phases of study I would think I finally understood Jung, only to find there was a far deeper understanding to be had. The experience in Zurich helped me realize the depth of Jung as a man, his theories, and his techniques. He was, of course, the first and original Jungian Analyst. Fortunately, he had the foresight to personally teach his theories and methods to a few and then he created his Institute for the training of more new analysts. Jung died before I began my study there in 1992. I am thankful that I was able to train at the institute he established and learned the methods he taught to the faculty. I use those same theories and techniques with people who choose to do their own analysis with me.
The Jungian Approach
Jung’s approach is officially called Analytical Psychology and those who qualify under his approach have the title of Diplomate in Analytical Psychology. Over time, his theories and methods have come to be called Jungian Analysis and people who offer his approach are called Jungian Analysts. For those who are curious, analysis refers to the process of the analyst and the client (once called analysands) working cooperatively to understand, analyze and find value and meaning in the client’s unconscious materials and makeup.
Jon's Credentials
My work as a Jungian Analyst is supported by comprehensive training and certification. Below, you will find details on my qualifications and educational background.
- Professional Certification:
- Diplomate in Analytical Psychology, C.G. Jung Institute, Zurich, Switzerland. This prestigious credential confers me with the authority to practice as a Jungian Analyst any where in the world, reflecting my completion of rigorous training in analytical psychology.
- Education:
- BA in Economics, University of Oregon
- MA in Economics, University of Oregon
- MA in Counseling Psychology, Oregon State University
- Professional Memberships:
- International Association of Analytical Psychology (IAAP)
- Association of Graduate Analytical Psychologists (AGAP)
Who is Carl Gustav Jung?
Carl Gustav Jung (1875-1961) was a pioneering Swiss psychiatrist whose insights into the human psyche continue to influence psychology, spirituality, and personal development. While beginning his career as a close collaborator with Sigmund Freud, Jung developed his own distinctive understanding of the psyche, recognizing it as inherently creative and oriented toward growth and meaning.
Jung's own profound inner journey led him to discover the collective unconscious - a deeper layer of the psyche that contains universal patterns and symbols shared by all humanity. His work with dreams, active imagination, and symbolic expression opened new pathways for understanding the soul's natural movement toward wholeness and integration.
Unlike many of his contemporaries who focused primarily on pathology, Jung saw psychological symptoms as meaningful communications from the psyche, pointing toward possibilities for growth and transformation. His approach emphasized the importance of integrating both light and shadow aspects of ourselves, developing a relationship with the unconscious, and finding our unique path of individuation.
Jung's insights arose not just from his brilliant theoretical mind, but from his deep personal exploration and decades of work with clients. His legacy offers us practical tools for navigating life's challenges while discovering deeper meaning and purpose in our journey.
What is Analytical Psychology?
Analytical Psychology, founded by Carl Gustav Jung, is a profound exploration of the human psyche that seeks to uncover the hidden depths of the unconscious and foster a harmonious relationship between the conscious and unconscious aspects of the self. Rooted in Jung’s belief in the innate drive toward wholeness, this discipline invites individuals to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and integration.
At its core, Analytical Psychology views the psyche as a complex, dynamic system composed of the ego, the personal unconscious, and the collective unconscious. The collective unconscious—one of Jung's most groundbreaking contributions—contains universal patterns, or archetypes, which manifest in myths, symbols, dreams, and cultural narratives. Through these archetypes, we connect to the shared experiences of humanity.
Key Principles of Analytical Psychology:
- Individuation:
A central goal of Analytical Psychology, individuation refers to the process of integrating the fragmented aspects of the psyche to achieve a deeper sense of authenticity, self-awareness, and wholeness. This lifelong journey involves embracing and reconciling inner opposites, such as the shadow (the disowned or hidden parts of the self) and the persona (the social mask we present to the world). - The Shadow:
Jung taught that the shadow represents the parts of ourselves we tend to reject or suppress. By engaging with the shadow in a safe and nonjudgmental space, we can uncover hidden strengths and energies, transforming what was once perceived as negative into a source of personal empowerment. - Archetypes and Symbols:
Jung identified recurring symbols and archetypes, such as the hero, mother, trickster, and wise old man, that reside in the collective unconscious. These archetypes shape our experiences and guide our personal development. Analytical Psychology emphasizes working with symbols, myths, and dreams to reveal the psyche's messages. - The Self:
The Self, as Jung described it, is the central archetype and the organizing principle of the psyche. It represents the unity of the conscious and unconscious mind and serves as the guiding force in the process of individuation. - Dream Work:
Jungian analysis often involves the exploration of dreams, which are seen as a direct expression of the unconscious. By interpreting dream symbols and understanding their personal and universal meanings, individuals gain insights into unresolved conflicts, potential paths forward, and their deeper selves. - Active Imagination:
A creative process introduced by Jung, active imagination encourages individuals to engage with their inner world through visualization, dialogue, and artistic expression. This method fosters a meaningful connection with the unconscious and its symbols.
Analytical Psychology in Practice:
Jungian analysis is a deeply collaborative process, where the analyst and individual work together to explore the unique story of the psyche. It is not about imposing external solutions but about empowering individuals to connect with their inner wisdom and navigate their life journey authentically. The focus is on fostering a balance between the inner and outer worlds, enabling individuals to live with greater clarity, creativity, and fulfillment.
Analytical Psychology is particularly valuable for individuals seeking:
- A deeper understanding of their inner world.
- Insights into recurring patterns, challenges, or crises.
- Personal growth and self-awareness.
- A greater connection to meaning and purpose in life.
Why Jungian Analysis Matters Today:
In an era often marked by rapid change and disconnection, Analytical Psychology provides a timeless framework for finding meaning and balance. It offers tools to navigate the challenges of modern life while fostering a deeper connection to one’s authentic self. Jungian principles encourage not only self-discovery but also a greater understanding of our interconnectedness with others and the world.
This journey is not simply about solving problems but about embarking on an adventure to discover the hidden treasures within, guided by Jung’s enduring wisdom and the transformative power of Analytical Psychology.