A Jungian Activity with Adolescents

My Guardian Spirit A central archetypal drive during the adolescent phase of development is that of separation from family of origin. One function of separation is to attain ones own unique identity. The Guardian Spirit guided imagery technique has been modified from Allan and Bertoia (1992). This guided imagery involves symbols inherent with such psychological functions as separating from the family or origin, purification of the body, overcoming childhood fears, death of the old childhood identity, learning new coping skills, and the birth of new inner and outer identities (Allan and Bertoia). Guided imagery activities are particularly relevant to adolescents as they provide a non-threatening mechanism of entering the great search for and integration of the inscape of ones pure emotions. Jung (1964) termed this individuation.

The adolescent is prepared for the guided imagery activity through a few moments in relaxation techniques. Then the therapist reads Close your eyes and let your mind wander for a while.Now imagine that you are living many, many years ago long before White people came to this landand it is approaching time for you to leave on your Vision Quest in search of your Guardian Spirit. Lets get you a home base first: Where are you living? Who is in your family? What does your lodge look like? Now imagine a dream, and in the dream you become aware that it is time for you to leave your lodge and make your solo journey away from your home to find your Guarding Spirit Imagine leaving and walking for a long, long time away from your home into the unknown countryside What do you see? What is the weather like? After walking for a long time, you become aware that you are ready to begin your Vision Quest. To do this, you must find a safe and protected space. Soon you begin dreaming or imagining Youre seeking a vision of your Guardian Spirit. Who comes to you? What is he, she, or it like? Continue dreaming for a while Picture the animal, person, or thing closely. Notice the details What noise does it make? What size and shape is it? What color is it? Picture yourself and your Guardian Spirit. What is it doing? What actions or words does it have for you? See if it leads you anywhere or shows or gives you anythingDo you have any questions of it? Let yourself askLet him or her answerNow it is time to say goodbye to your Guardian Spirit. When you are ready lift your head and slowly open your eyesNow Id like you to draw your Guardian Spirit and a scene from your inner journey and then well discuss.