Painting Inner Images Workshop :
Inner Geometry-SOLD OUT

Presented by Marion Anderson, Ph.D.

Geometric forms such as rectangles, circles, and triangles are basic elements present in our outer life such as in architectural structure or, in their uneven forms in nature. Basic geometric structures also symbolically represent feelings, moods or lasting psychological states of our inner life.

In this 5-week workshop, we will be guided by these basic forms and share our experience with the group. Encountering images of the unconscious can have healing effects and provide a renewed attitude. Painting unconscious images provides the participants with access to psychic energy from the unconscious. For mental health professionals, the exploration and lived experience of archetypal forces through personal inner imagery is necessary and helpful to guide clients in their search of renewed attitudes and understanding of their symbolic depth as C.G. Jung proposes in his work. This workshop is for adults only and no previous experience with painting is necessary.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe how painting images from the unconscious can aid the patient in expressing latent emotional conflicts;
• Describe how this technique can be of value during times of transition or crisis;
• Describe some of the difficulties that can occur when patients use painting to work on psychological issues;
• Describe the clinical value of non-verbal expressive arts such as painting, and when to introduce such techniques in psychotherapy;
• Describe how the symbolic content of the patient’s art work can be utilized as a form of diagnosis;
• Describe what is meant by the shadow and how it can be evidenced in psychotherapy;
• Give an example of working with shadow material in art;
• Give an example of some of the transference issues unique to utilizing art  with patients;
• Give an example of some of the countertransference issues that arise in utilizing art with patients;
• Describe how the evolution of a psychological process in psychotherapy can be observed in a patient’s art;
• Give an example of specific geometric forms can be utilized to symbolize specific psychological experiences.

Marion Anderson, Ph.D., is a Jungian analyst and clinical psychologist in private practice in Santa Monica. She is a certified sandplay therapist and teacher who has lectured nationally and internationally. She has published articles in the Journal of Sandplay Therapy, served as the co-coordinator of the sandplay community of Los Angeles group, and gives workshops on painting inner images at the Jung Institute. She is also faculty at the Reiss-Davis Institute.