Mercurius Ubiquitous

A strong theoretical foundation for analytical psychology to engage with psychedelic therapy can be built using tools already present in Jungian thought. The paper offers a brief history of psychedelic therapy and Jungian psychology, focusing on three analysts, and outlines Stanislav Grof's work with LSD therapy as a basis for dialogue with Jungian concepts. Alchemical concepts and language from analytical psychology—prima materia, Mercurius, the vessel, and subtle body—are applied to understand psychedelic experience, alongside individuals' accounts of their LSD sessions. The author then discusses implications of this dialogue and potential future directions.

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Abstract

Abstract The purpose of this work is to construct a strong theoretical base for analytical psychology to engage with psychedelic therapy by drawing out tools already present in Jungian thought. This is done by first offering a brief history of psychedelic therapy and Jungian psychology, focusing on the work of three analysts. Stanislav Grof’s work with LSD therapy is then outlined and explored as a foundation for dialogue with Jungian concepts. Analytical psychology’s use of alchemical concepts and language is applied as a means of understanding psychedelic experience. Concepts of prima materia, Mercurius, the vessel, and subtle body are discussed alongside individuals’ accounts of their LSD sessions. Following these theoretical considerations, the author discusses the implications of a dialogue between analytical psychology and psychedelic therapy and potential future directions.