South Shore Mental Wellness Associates

06/26/2024

One of the interesting aspects of the psyche is the search for the reason our experiences occur. In many ways, the need to understand our…

06/25/2024

One of the interesting aspects of the psyche is the search for the reason our experiences occur. In many ways, the need to understand our suffering and pain is a central part of the process of awakening. The idea of past sin and punishment fits this perfectly, especially when looking at myths.

Even though I was raised Eastern Orthodox, my heritage and my connection to the collective unconscious, and in turn, my connection to ancestral archetypes, have me thinking of the myths of Prometheus and Sisyphus, who are both seen as suffering for all eternity due to their sins. Yet, even their sins differ. Prometheus was punished for his love of mankind and for ignoring the gods, while Sisyphus sinned against both man and gods. There was no way to stop the suffering, aside from the case where Hercules rescued Prometheus from his never-ending suffering.

Christianity, of course, has a different path to redemption, which centers on asking for forgiveness and sinning "no more." I have seen many of our issues being connected to this idea of punishment and the inability to be forgiven. The psyche has a very difficult time accepting forgiveness. It is much more ancient in its approach, where suffering is eternal and there does not seem to be any possible exit through the process of forgiveness.

Forgiveness, of course, can only come from within; however, our 'ancient gods' may not allow us the peace we desire. Like Prometheus, we will suffer daily for our sins and must await our savior. In his case, it was Hercules; for my family of birth, it is Christ. For me, however, I am not sure who can forgive me.

I have gone to the confessional, but in truth, my psyche holds on to my sin. Instead, let us see the transformative power inherent in the entire process as the thing that is truly important.

Looking to encourage growth in order to maximize your potential.

05/19/2024

I truly love how Jung thought. Difficulties and the importance they have in our development have been noted by many. The anxiety and fear provoked in infancy is what leads to the development of healthy ego and the understanding of time and people. My journey has been filled with obstacles but in the end these challenges have helped create the person that I am, both good and bad. The ability to work on oneself is truly the ability to look at our life narrative, identify those difficulties and the changes made, and eventually transform these psychological changes in order to finally individuate.
Unfortunately, many become bond up within the"loop" of their narrative and the outcomes without looking at other perspectives. They create their own narrative to fit what they have become rather than grow DESPITE the narrative. Subtle difference but a very important one.
I for one give thanks for having survived the difficulties and thank the universe for the lessons learned because of them. I do not mean to say that I do not scream out against my fate at times, but I attempt to honor these battles and scars since they made me who I am.

Looking to encourage growth in order to maximize your potential.

05/15/2024

The struggle seems to be a central theme of this card yet the protagonist seems to be holding his own . He occupies the higher ground which symbolizes our need to stand with our mission and purpose during times of conflict. Although there are multiple foes he is clearly not defeated instead seeming calmly in command of the situation. Will he remain victorious? I like to believe so.

05/14/2024

Waking up to this card tends to fill me with a sense of angst. Nothing more evocative of feeling betrayed or let down than the image of 10 swords in the back.
Yet, it is not truly correlated to my mood at the moment especially since I feel relatively well this morning. So why this card?
On one level this card points to accepting an end to something or a defeat and allowing oneself to move on despite it. The person covered in the red cloak evokes the image of nobility in the fight, even though it ended with loss. This is a powerful lesson in therapy, the lesson of acceptance. Life is full of battles that we lose, but our ability to accept these and move on is the key to growth.

05/11/2024

Saturday is my day in my practice. People often ask why I would work on Saturday. It is hard to explain the pleasure from working in my office. I feel very connected to the work and as such not resent it at all . It is also the space where I do my Jungian and Depth work which remains fascinating to me .

05/07/2024

"Today's focus: 'The Hermit' in Tarot. This card resonates deeply with me. Its depiction of isolation mirrors my innate introverted nature. I find solace in the Hermit's journey of self-discovery in solitude, reminiscent of the archetypal monk. Its universal symbolism makes it a potent tool for depth work across cultures."

05/04/2024

Embracing Change: Reflecting on Old and in the Way 🎶 As I delve into the timeless tunes of Old and in the Way, led by the legendary Jerry Garcia on banjo, I find a resonance with my own journey. After 35 years in Administrative Psychiatry, I've evolved. While regulatory agencies may see me as 'old and in the way,' I've discovered a newfound empathy and skill in my clinical practice. How do we remain relevant and active in this later stage of life? Let's explore together. "

05/03/2024

"Transformative Journey: Embracing 'Dark Nights of the Soul'

At 40, I stumbled upon a book that spoke to my soul. 'Dark Nights of the Soul' by Thomas Moore didn't just change my perspective on personal suffering—it revolutionized my approach to psychiatry. Before then, I was content with conventional methods, overseeing traditional therapy and medication management. But from 40 to 45, my worldview shifted. I delved deep into the works of Jung, Hillman, and Moore, immersing myself in their wisdom.

Sharing this title isn't just about recommending a book—it's about advocating for the profound growth that arises from embracing our darkest moments. In psychiatry, we often rush to medicate discomfort away, overlooking the valuable messages it carries. Let's pause, listen, and allow ourselves to experience the transformative power of our 'dark nights.'"

05/02/2024

https://www.instagram.com/p/C6d6ZgJuHO6/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

05/01/2024

In my daily Tarot practice, I use the cards not for divination, but as mirrors reflecting the depths of the unconscious. Today, the card drawn was The Lovers, often associated with romantic relationships. However, as I delve into its imagery, I see beyond the surface.

The scene unfolds like the original Garden of Eden, where the angel casts Adam and Eve into the unknown. Storm clouds gather, and the once lush environment appears barren. It's a scene of departure from comfort, a journey into uncertainty.

For me, it's a poignant reflection. Is it the fear of losing comfort that keeps me tethered, or the stirring desire to venture beyond the familiar? The question lingers, inviting introspection.

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South Shore Mental Health Associates provides Depth and Jungian Psychotherapy designed to help the individual grow and individuate.

04/30/2024

"Ever hear someone say, 'I need to talk to someone'? It's a common sentiment in my practice, and while venting is valuable, it's just the tip of the iceberg in psychotherapy. Depth Psychology and Shadow Work aim higher—exploring the depths of the self, reaching into the personal and collective unconscious. It's not just about symptom relief; it's about integrating lost fragments back into the Self. "