Neurodiversity and Jung

ADHD and autism appear to be increasing. and pose challenges to the traditional methods of the psychotherapies. How do we make sense of what is happening? And how can analysts modify their approach to embrace this diversity effectively?

Psychiatry has typically seen these neurodivergencies as closely associated with learning disability, and psychoanalysis has focussed on the associated dynamic structures related to isolation. More recent perspectives are perhaps liberating us from the straight-jacket of these pathologizing perspectives, allowing a more balanced and optimistic view to emerge which can highlight the strengths that these conditions may bestow.

Based on his clients' and his own experiences, Brian will offer his own perspective on this area which has fascinated him in recent years, and try to dispel some of the associated fear and prejudice. His thesis is that analytical psychology (Jungian therapy) presents us with a ready-made perspective to help us grapple with understanding these conditions and in so doing may deepen our grasp of analytical psychology itself.