The holiday season often stirs up complex emotions, especially for those who find it hard to align their experiences with the cheerful imagery of togetherness and joy. From a psychodynamic perspective, this time of year can bring long-buried feelings to the surface. The pressure to connect with family or meet societal expectations of holiday cheer […]
Dreams have long fascinated thinkers and psychologists, leading to various theories about their purpose and significance. Some view them as random brain activity, while others, such as Sigmund Freud, believe they reveal repressed desires. Carl Jung, however, took a different perspective. He considered dreams to be a crucial link to the unconscious mind, offering vital […]
Carl Jung viewed ‘neurosis,’ particularly anxiety, not merely as an illness but as an attempt by the psyche to heal itself. He compared it to the function of dreams, a mechanism through which the self-regulating mind tries to restore balance, often forcefully or drastically. Unlike modern approaches that emphasize symptom relief, Jung saw ‘neurosis’ as […]
At Dorfen Health Services, I bring a unique perspective to therapy—one shaped by years of experience in executive coaching and corporate leadership. This blend of expertise allows me to offer clients a dynamic approach that is both deeply personal and strategically focused. Whether you’re an individual looking to navigate life’s challenges or a professional seeking […]
Active imagination, a technique developed by Carl Jung, serves as a core method in analytical psychology for engaging with the unconscious. Jung viewed it as a pathway to achieving personal wholeness by unlocking latent aspects of the psyche. Unlike dreams, where the unconscious communicates in a passive, unidirectional way, active imagination allows the conscious mind […]
Nurturing Mental Well-being: Stress, Daily Practices, Coping Strategies, and the Window of Tolerance It’s easy to overlook the importance of tending to our mental health in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. Just as we prioritize physical exercise and nourishment, our minds require daily care and attention, too. Let’s explore practical ways to […]
Understanding Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) When it comes to therapy and improving mental health, one of the most widely used and effective approaches is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This evidence-based method is popular for good reason—it’s practical, accessible, and works for a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. But […]
During the holiday season there are often many expectations for socializing, shopping, eating and spending time with family. While some of these activities can feel joyful, others might be emotionally or logistically difficult and unrealistic. Time management becomes more complicated, stress increases and self-care may be forgotten. Pay attention to feeling physically unwell, emotionally overwhelmed […]
At first glance, comparison might seem like a helpful motivator. After all, seeing someone succeed or achieve something amazing can inspire us to aim higher, push harder, or explore new paths. It can even give us a short-term boost — a feeling of confidence or satisfaction if we measure up or even surpass others in […]
Are you beginning to recognize that you might be a people pleaser? This behaviour often shows up as an overwhelming urge to be nice and to go out of your way to ensure that others like you. You may find yourself working extra hours or taking on additional tasks—not out of genuine enthusiasm, but out […]
