Aion Institute

This course explores Gnosticism and its relevance to depth-oriented and psychodynamic clinical practice. Gnosticism was not only an early, unorthodox expression of Christianity, but—according to Carl Jung—it projected an intricate theology that provides us a psychological blueprint of the Western psyche as it emerged from the ancient world and gradually took the form of modern culture. From this perspective, engaging with Gnostic material becomes a necessary step in deciphering the unconscious conflicts and forms of psychological suffering that continue to trouble the modern Western psyche. Key themes include Gnostic creation myths, the archetype of Sophia, and Jung’s sustained engagement with Gnostic symbolism and cosmology. Emphasis will be placed on amplifying Gnostic thought through a Western psychological lens, highlighting its relevance for contemporary psychodynamic therapeutic work. Clinical implications for assessment and case formulation will be explored throughout. The material is presented conceptually rather than religiously, and no prior knowledge of Gnosticism is required.