Experiences of the non-understandable: Jungian Explorations and Contributions

XXIII International Congress of Analytical Psychology, 24 – 29 August, 2025, in Zurich

The XXIII International Congress of Analytical Psychology wil be held in Zurich from August 24-29, 2025, marking the 150th anniversary of Carl Gustav Jung’s birth. This historic milestone makes the Congress particularly meaningful, as participants will gather in the birthplace of analytical psychology where its foundational principles were established. The choice of Zurich allows attendees to experience firsthand the spirit that nurtured Jung’s pioneering work, while an extensive excursions program offers opportunities to visit all the significant locations relevant to our field’s origins.

The Congress theme, “Experiences of the non-understandable: Jungian explorations and contributions,” speaks directly to the contemporary relevance of Jung’s work in our turbulent times. This theme invites us to consider where we stand today as practitioners and theorists, while exploring how analytical psychology can address current global challenges. The program committee has crafted this focus to honor our rich history while examining how our discipline can make meaningful contributions to navigating the complex, often incomprehensible experiences that define our current era.

With nearly 500 proposals submitted, the Congress program reflects the vibrant diversity of contemporary analytical psychology. Attendees can expect 9 plenaries, 10 large breakout sessions, and 110 regular sessions with presentations ranging from traditional academic formats to innovative offerings like Dream Matrix sessions and “Gibberish Meditation” workshops. Special highlights include the presentation of a new book on Emma Jung’s life and work, exclusive guided tours to locations like the Tower of Bollingen and ETH Archives, plus an extensive evening program of films, plays, and music—creating a comprehensive celebration of our analytical psychology heritage.

The plenary sessions where all Congress attendees gather to see the same presentation each morning are an indication of the major themes:

Monday, August 25th, opens the Congress with Pilar Amezaga’s Welcome Address, followed by a focus on the roots of analytical psychology through “Dedicated to the Soul: Emma Jung’s Life and Work.” The day concludes with Joe Cambray’s exploration of “Individuation, Synchronicity, the Psychoid Imagination and the Reenchantment of the World”.

Tuesday, August 26th, examines modern applications and societal themes. Marian Dunlea presents “BodyDreaming,” an innovative therapeutic approach. Kristina Schellinski addresses “Death, Hope and Soul” from a Jungian perspective, and Allan Guggenbühl & Renate Daniel discuss “The Rupture in the West,” applying analytical psychology to current global shifts.

Mid-week, Wednesday, August 27th, centers on understanding the unfamiliar. Audrey F. Punnett speaks on “Coming to Terms with the Other,” while Toshio Kawai explores “Non-understandable world of ASD” and the therapist’s role. Konstantin Rössler bridges historical and modern insights with a “Review of C.G. Jung’s Understanding of Dreams in the Light of Modern Dream-Research.”

Thursday, August 28th, offers critical reflection and emerging topics. Andrew Samuels provides “Late-career reflections on international analytical psychology,” prompting an examination of the field’s evolution. Leslie Stein then explores a cutting-edge area with “The Place of Psychedelics in Jungian Analysis,” addressing its integration within the practice.

The Congress culminates on Friday, August 29th. Kan Chen & Xiao You discuss “Re-enchantment in Adolescent Psyche,” focusing on spiritual experiences in modern media. Stefano Carta offers “The analytical process from ethnographic perspectives,” broadening the cultural scope. These are the plenary presentations that happen every morning of the conference from Monday to Friday, which bring together all attendees into the Main Hall.

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