The term ‘individuation’ is used by Jung as a way of explaining the process of becoming a centred and whole individual. It is a movement into the second stage of life when a person begins to move away from the ego-dominated persona into a more meaningful focus on the Self and the union of opposing parts between conscious and shadow aspects.

This stage is about taking responsibility for life’s journey, and choosing to seek answers from within. There is no parent to help at this time of life. It can feel lonely and overwhelming to seek meaning and there is no promised outcome.

Individuation remains uniquely personal as each individual looks back over their life and circumstances and forwards to what psychological development is called for. The journey can be one of suffering yet it is also a path of purpose, and trodden in hope. It is about finding a way to become fully our selves whilst recognising the limits imposed on us.

Jungian analysis uses dreams, images, and symbols as a way of linking the unconscious into consciousness.