A new chapter in the psychological and cultural life of Cyprus has begun with the formation of the Cyprus Association for Analytical Psychology (CAAP). This marks an important step in the flourishing of Jungian thought on the island, where ancient myths, diverse traditions, and the complexities of modern identity intersect. Jung’s Analytical Psychology, with its deep insights into the psyche and its emphasis on the symbolic and archetypal layers of human experience, finds a natural home in Cyprus. The establishment of this association is not only a milestone for the local psychological community but a cause for celebration for all those drawn to the depth and richness of Jung’s work.
The journey toward this moment has been decades in the making. Renos Papadopoulos, a distinguished Cypriot-born Jungian analyst and professor, played a pivotal role in bringing Jungian ideas to Cyprus. His work began in the 1980s when he conducted psychotherapy and family therapy training in collaboration with the Cyprus Department of Health. Over time, demand for Jungian teachings grew, leading to further initiatives, including the contributions of his wife, Nina Papadopoulos, a psychologist and Dance Movement Psychotherapist, whose involvement with the Champernowne Trust helped lay the groundwork for deeper Jungian engagement on the island. Efforts such as the Panopeia initiative and various professional gatherings have shaped the path leading to CAAP’s formation.
An essential figure in the island’s Jungian heritage is Evangelos Christou, affectionately known as Evis, a true pioneer whose contributions have often been overlooked. Born in Cyprus and raised in Alexandria, Christou trained under Ludwig Wittgenstein at Cambridge before becoming the first male graduate of the C.G. Jung Institute in Zurich. His posthumous work, The Logos of the Soul, remains a significant text in Jungian scholarship, exploring the interplay of rational thought and the deeper layers of the psyche. His legacy serves as an enduring inspiration for the association’s mission.
To celebrate this landmark occasion, CAAP is proud to announce its inaugural public lecture, which will be presented by Renos Papadopoulos. Titled “The Psychology of C.G. Jung in Modern Perspectives”, this lecture will explore how Jungian thought continues to evolve and remain relevant in today’s world. This is more than just an academic event—it is a rare opportunity for the public and professionals alike to engage with one of the leading figures in the field. The lecture will be accessible online, ensuring that the reach of Jungian psychology in Cyprus extends beyond physical borders.
The formation of CAAP is a moment of both culmination and beginning—honoring the past while laying the foundation for a vibrant future. This new association will foster a growing community dedicated to deepening the understanding of Jung’s work and training future generations of analysts. Whether you are a practitioner, a student, or simply someone drawn to the mysteries of the psyche, this is an invitation to be part of a historic movement. Stay tuned for further details on how to participate in this groundbreaking event!