On Tuesday, September 17th, COPE was honored to host an enriching workshop led by the esteemed Jungian Psychoanalyst, Dian Abdurachman. The workshop, titled “To Break and To Bind,” delved into the complex phenomenon of psychic fragmentation through the lens of Jungian psychology, offering our team profound insights into the human psyche.
At the core of the workshop was the exploration of the psyche’s inherent dissociability—the natural tendency of the mind to fragment in response to trauma or overwhelming experiences. This process, known as psychic fragmentation, is a defense mechanism where the psyche splits apart in an attempt to protect the individual from confronting painful emotions or memories head-on.
Understanding Psychic Fragmentation
Dian Abdurachman expertly unpacked the concept of fragmentation by illustrating how these fragmented parts of the psyche manifest within the therapeutic relationship. In Jungian terms, these dissociated parts often emerge in symbolic forms—whether through dreams, behaviors, or creative expressions such as art. These unconscious elements seek expression, even though they remain outside the client’s immediate awareness.
The therapist’s role is central to the healing process. By working with these fragmented symbols, the therapist helps the client bring these unconscious parts to light, facilitating a vital process of integration. The goal is not just to identify the fragmented parts, but to support the client in re-integrating them, thereby moving towards a more cohesive and unified sense of self.
From Fragmentation to Wholeness: The Healing Process
The title of the workshop, “To Break and To Bind,” beautifully encapsulates the dual nature of this therapeutic journey. Under stress, the psyche breaks apart in an effort to protect itself. However, with the support of therapeutic work, these fractured parts can be bound together again, resulting in healing and a more integrated, whole self.
Dian Abdurachman shared powerful case examples that demonstrated how this process unfolds in therapy. By recognizing and engaging with the fragmented aspects of the psyche, the client begins to weave together the broken threads of their inner world. This process not only promotes healing from past traumas but fosters personal growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of oneself.
Final Reflections
The “To Break and To Bind” workshop was a transformative experience for our team, offering new perspectives on how we can support individuals experiencing psychic fragmentation. Dian Abdurachman’s depth of knowledge in Jungian psychoanalysis and her compassionate approach to the therapeutic process reminded us of the delicate balance between understanding the brokenness and facilitating healing.
As therapists, this workshop reinforced the importance of helping our clients uncover the hidden parts of their psyche, not to fix what is broken, but to help them rediscover their wholeness.
Edited by Michiel Gonzales
COPE Centre of Psychological Enrichment
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