Buffalo seasons Awareness in life
Understanding the Mother Archetype in Menopause
One of the most profound shifts in a woman’s life occurs during (peri)menopause(post)—a transitional period that signals the closing of one chapter and the beginning of another. The Mother archetype, traditionally associated with fertility, nurturing, and generativity, undergoes a profound transformation during this phase. To understand this shift from a Jungian perspective, it’s essential to explore how the Mother archetype manifests, both in its light and shadow, during (peri)menopause(post).
Rediscovering the Maiden in You
The Maiden archetype often gets relegated to a youthful, naïve part of ourselves—a phase we outgrow as we journey into the responsibilities and complexities of adulthood. But as women navigate (peri)menopause(post), we often find ourselve drawn back to their Maiden selves, not as a nostalgic longing for youth, but as a deeper understanding of what she represents.
The Power of Group
The powerful benefits of psychotherapy groups have been documented for decades, most profoundly by Irvin Yalom, MD—a founding father of existential psychotherapy and group work. Yalom observed, “The act of revealing oneself fully to another and still being accepted may be the major vehicle of therapeutic help.”
As a group psychotherapist, I have worked with people living with cancer, caregivers, bereaved persons, compassion fatigue, women’s and men’s issues, and existential concerns. In five years, I was honored to have borne witness to the unique aspects of self-discovery, compassion, and personal growth that arise from exploring the human condition with others in a confidential setting. I have been greatly influenced by Dr. Yalom’s work, and I am grateful for the opportunity .