| The purpose of this heuristic study is to explore through a combination of depth and clinical understanding methodologies for creating alternative means of expression and connection with people who experience both developmental challenges and mental disorders. Many severely challenged people are often considered "unreachable." Finding workable methodologies which will break through the chaos of the "unreachable patient" forces us to become the "unusual therapist.".;Jung himself was the original "unusual therapist" in his belief in universal archetypes as real and uncreated ideals which connect all people through the collective conscious and unconscious. Jung believed that the archetypes were revealed through active imagination by exploring archetypal mythological motifs, images, and symbolism. His "unusual methodologies" often focused on alternative means of expression.;Jung's process of individuation, the integration of light and dark within the self as well as the acceptance of light and dark in the other in objective relationships, is not an externally imposed process, but an instinctual one. All people have an innate desire to move toward individuation. This dissertation seeks to delineate forms of expression and connection to bring even the most challenged individuals into a place from which they can move toward that integration within themselves and move toward healing and greater sense of self.;Using alternative means of expression, patients can find symbolic metaphors to create a bond, by sharing in a moment of affective attunement. The symbols and imaginal landscapes of alternate visions can help the therapist tap into the energy of communion and assist even the most challenged individual progress toward individuation. Through that bond, the therapist can find a way into the most shadowed minds and hearts.;Through analyzing these procedures following the methods of heuristic study, I seek consciously to objectify what must always remain a subjective and individual experience for both the therapist and patient. Regardless of our capacities, through alternative means of creative expression, the unusual therapist gains a deeper understanding of the unreachable patient, so that each can be seen and heard for his or her authentic self. |
