Coaching the Unconscious

A Jungian Approach to Working with Symbol

Laurence Barrett

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Paperback

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English

Routledge
18 November 2025

Counselling & advice services; Psychoanalytical theory (Freudian psychology); Analytical & Jungian psychology; Occupational & industrial psychology; Psychotherapy

In Coaching the Unconscious: A Jungian Approach to Working with Symbol, Laurence Barrett explores how coaches can begin to work with symbol as part of their practice, blending the key principles of Jungian psychology with case studies and practical applications.

The Jungian concept of the symbolic attitude provides a valuable framework for coaches seeking to navigate the complexities of the human mind. It prompts us to notice the rich tapestry of symbols and metaphors arising from the unconscious and reveals what may be happening 'beneath the surface' of the mind. Coaches who have developed a symbolic attitude can better help their clients explore their inner worlds and create a deeper understanding of themselves and their potential. They can support more profound and impactful coaching experiences that go beyond superficial goals to support growth and transformation in more profound ways.

This valuable new resource will be of particular interest for experienced coaches seeking to deepen and extend their practice, as well as coaches who have begun to explore Jungian psychology and are looking for practical ways in which its concepts can be applied. It would also be appropriate for students of coaching and Jungian psychology.

By: Laurence Barrett
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm,
ISBN: 9781032732442
ISBN 10: 103273244X
Pages: 192
Publication Date: 18 November 2025
Audience: College/higher education , Professional and scholarly , Primary , Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

Laurence Barrett has worked internationally in leadership coaching and organisational consulting for over thirty years and has held senior roles in a number of FTSE-30 companies. He holds an MSc in the Psychodynamics of Human Development (Jungian) and trained as a coach and a coach supervisor with the Tavistock Institute.

Reviews for Coaching the Unconscious: A Jungian Approach to Working with Symbol

‘Laurence Barrett is an entertaining storyteller and has written a sweeping book that includes rich material from his own coaching practice. As a coaching supervisor and an educator, he has a depth and breadth of understanding that is quite unique. He unpacks the symbolic life in a way that I have not encountered so far and the kaleidoscope of ideas he creates is inspiring and extremely valuable. Students, coaches, and analysts from all walks of Jungian psychology would benefit from working with this material.’ Tess Castleman, Jungian training analyst and former member of the Curatorium of the C. G. Jung Institute of Zurich ‘This book is a profound and original contribution to the coaching field. Laurence brings Jungian psychology to life with clarity, depth, and practical insight, inviting coaches to engage more consciously with symbol, play, and the unconscious. This book doesn’t just inform practice; it stretches the coach’s capacity for reflection, imagination, and inner growth. A poetically written and a psychologically rigorous work that will leave a lasting impression.’ Verity Hannell, Programme Director, Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching, Henley Business School