Introduction

Before we get into making sense of a dream - a little bit about how I got interested in dreams. I had been a therapist for many years before I started getting interested into Jungian theory and archetypes. At the time I stumbled onto this new path, I was a new mother. Although it was really fulfilling in many ways, I was having a hard time adjusting to my new identity. I had been pretty used to doing whatever I wanted whenever I wanted, and having a newborn pulled that particular rug right out from under me! I sought therapy, as I had many times before, but this time from a Jungian Analyst, given my newfound interest. As a part of things, she asked that I record and bring in my dreams. I knew this was part of the Jungian schtick so I wasn’t surprised, and was interested in what would became of it (plus, I absolutely love Moleskin notebooks and this was an opportunity to buy a new one (red) and dedicate it to writing down dreams).

However, when I brought my first dream in to my therapist, I couldn’t understand how someone could make any damn sense of what was happening in that dream which detailed adventures in a Wal-Mart parking lot, a room with school chairs nailed upside down the ceiling and a squirrel dressed in a small pink dress. I thought it was HILARIOUS and ridiculous. I think my inability to discuss this with any seriousness became quickly annoying to her. Anyways, after working with the dream, and subsequent dreams after that, I was hooked. I had to know more about this world of symbols, myths, and all the figures that were showing up in my dreams every night.

I struggled through a variety of all different kinds of ways of working with, and understanding dreams over the years, including working with client dreams, my own dreams, participation in dream groups, trainings and reading LOTS of books. Through this, I’ve come to my own way of understanding dreams, their origins and purpose (which leans heavily into late-Jung, James Hillman, Sharon Blackie, Steven Aizenstat - area of thought) I don’t believe there is a “right way” of working with dreams, just the way that most resonates with the person. Paying attention to my “night life” in the way I have come to know has enriched my life immeasurably, and it made me want to bring it further into the world so that others could have access to this fascinating aspect of unseen life.