This book presents a simple, effective and illuminating way of understanding and working with dreams in clinical practice. It describes the mechanisms through which the mind/brain processes our experience and forms symbols, which embody a rich network of associations. It demonstrates how the dream and this network of associations can apply on a number of levels and thus shows how the full richness and vital importance of dreams, their meanings and purposes, can be explored. The book also explores the history, theory and science of dreams and dreaming. It reviews the debates between, and contributions from, Freud, Jung and other psychoanalysts, as well as the developments and discoveries from neuroscientists and dream laboratories, bringing the subject right up to date. Whilst the book primarily uses Jungian terminology, and highly values Jung's insights and approach to dreams, it gives a critical, contemporary account of the whole field of dream work and will be useful to practitioners of all theoretical persuasions. The book is a valuable resource for the trainee counsellor or therapist who is just beginning to work with dreams, as well as the experienced practitioner who wants to re-evaluate and re-invigorate their practise. It explores the practical and theoretical difficulties and dilemmas, satisfactions and wonders of working dreams. --- from the publisher About the Author: Marcus West is a Jungian analyst and professional member of the Society of Analytical Psychology; he works in private practice in Sussex, England. He has published papers, taught and given talks on a range of subjects including attachment theory, narcissism, envy, identity and dreams. He was joint winner of the Michael Fordham Prize [2004] for his paper "Identity, narcissism and the emotional core" and gave the Society of Analytical Psychology Annual Lecture in 2008. He has been Book Reviews Editor and is now a member of the Editorial Board of the Journal of Analytical Psychology. |
