Open Seminar
ÖffentlichSiberian Shamanism and the Path of Individuation
- 3 Dez. 2026
- 13:00–14:45
- ISAP Zürich
- Autumn Semester 2026
- Open Seminar
This seminar explores traditional Siberian shamanic initiation as a powerful metaphor for the Jungian individuation process. We examine how the ritual "dismemberment" of the shaman represents the ego's dissolution when facing the collective unconscious. By integrating "spirit helpers" – the psychological equivalent of archetypal forces – the initiate bridges the gap between ego and the Self. We discover how this ancient journey from psychic death to rebirth offers a timeless map for achieving psychological wholeness.
About the Speaker

Annika Jaakkola
BSN
I was born in Finland 1976 to a middle-class family. I have always loved nature and arts – and been fascinated by the mystery: Why we are here and what guides us? In high school I was enchanted by psychology and headed to study psychiatric nursing. After graduation I worked in psychiatric clinic and became a post-Freudian psychotherapist. I felt there is …