The therapeutic power of Myth
Psyche with the lamp
The importance of Myth and story as healing tool in therapy:
In today’s world, we’re constantly flooded with different versions of reality. Social media, news outlets, and personal opinions all collide, and it’s up to us to sift through it all and figure out what’s true and what aligns with our beliefs. It’s a lot to navigate, and honestly, it can feel overwhelming. Let alone our own issues we are struggling with.
So, what can we do when the world feels like it's spinning too fast? I turn to something timeless and powerful: myths and storytelling. There’s something deeply resonant about ancient myths and fairy tales—they speak to the very heart of what it means to be human. These stories echo our inner and outer struggles, joy and pain, triumphs and challenges. And in a world full of chaos, they can offer a sense of connection, relief, and wisdom.
Stories have always helped us understand ourselves, our communities, and the world we live in. Myths have preserved wisdom and passed down cultural identity across generations. This can be seen from such diverse cultures of Indigenous Australian traditions have used storytelling for thousands of years to pass on knowledge and keep their culture alive, to ancient Sumerian and Egyptian tales all the way through the Greek mythology and to Han Christiaan Anderson.
Storytelling has always been a big part of human life. Think about it—so many of us have fond memories of bedtime stories, family tales around the dinner table, or ghost stories at camp. There's something special about gathering at the end of the day or at certain times of the year to sit together, listen, and share stories. These stories echo our inner and outer struggles, joy and pain, triumphs and challenges. And in a world full of chaos, they can offer a sense of connection, relief, and wisdom.
The power of Myth in therapy
But why are myths so powerful, in therapy? Well, for many reasons: These myths explore the human
condition in rich, deep ways, and I find they help clients uncover new insights into their own journeys. And through this exploration can use it as a tool to self-regulate. They offer a container, a grounding play space for the client as well as help navigate old and negative beliefs, they help bypass long held defences so the client can start to make.
There are two big myths I often like to use in my practice:
1Psyche and Eros – From Greek Mythology
2 Isis and Osiris. – From The Egyptian ancient culture
A short Example form the story of Psyche and Eros
In this Myth Psyche must face four impossible tasks on her journey to wholeness. This is a decent in the true meaning of the word. To be reunited with her beloved she must succeed in these tasks. The first task is “sorting the beans”. Psyche must sort a room full of different types of seeds by morning or else! She is totally overwhelmed by this task. manages to do so (but only) with the help of (the) ants that come to her aid, just like Psyche. Life is demanding and can be overwhelming
why ants? Because they are a symbol from nature, of creatures who organically gather and sort. Often in life, we are faced with having to sort through experiences, rites of passage that are overwhelming. When I share the Myth of Psyche and eros with a client I spend time telling the story and then I focus on the Psyches first task of sorting the beans. I literalise the myth and place a large pile of beans in front of the client and get them to sort it . Without fail, clients report feeling calm and less overwhelmed after engaging with this exercise. There is more to it of course but this is just an example of how I use the power of myth as a therapeutic tool. Clients often take beans home to help them regulate when stressed.
Myths Reflect the Collective Human Experience
Carl Jung’s idea of the collective unconscious helps explain why myths feel so universal. They capture experiences we all share—things like life transitions, emotional struggles, and the search for meaning. The story of Psyche and Eros speaks about transition and the search for the sacred marriage. Archetypes like the hero, the innocent, the orphan, or the warrior resonate with us because they reflect our own inner challenges and triumphs.
A good myth isn’t just entertainment; it’s a window into our psyche. myths and can help clients see their own struggles as part of a larger, meaningful process. When someone hears a myth that mirrors their own life, it can be incredibly comforting. They realize, "I’m not alone—this story has been told for centuries, and it’s part of a bigger narrative." Myths also work as metaphors, helping us make sense of our lives in new ways. So, too can fairy tales and folklore.
Myths as a Safe Space for Healing
In therapy, stories create a safe, non-judgmental space to explore tough issues. Many clients come in with shame, confusion, or walls up around their experiences. By introducing a myth that mirrors their struggles, I can offer a metaphorical container for their pain and potential for change. Think of it as shining a light into the unconscious—just like in the myth of Psyche and Eros, where Psyche must face her fears and embrace the unknown. As therapist we gently shine a light (Psyches Lamp) on areas that are unconscious for the client but need revealing for the client to have more insight in to themselves.
Myths also help clients step outside themselves and project their experiences onto universal characters. This distance lets them reflect and gain insight without feeling overwhelmed by their defences. By working with myths, clients can reframe their own stories and start rewriting their personal narratives, transforming the way they see themselves.
Using Myths to Navigate Life’s Changes
Myths are especially helpful when clients are going through big life changes. A young person stepping into adulthood, for example, might find guidance in a myth about bravery or self-discovery. Once again, we meet the myth of Psyche and Eros because it offers incredible insights for those navigating relationships or personal growth.
The story of Psyche is all about transformation—the move from maidenhood to womanhood, from dependence to independence. Psyche faces four impossible tasks, each symbolizing inner work: confronting fears, embracing vulnerability, and trusting the process. This myth shows us that growth often requires us to face the shadow side of ourselves and emerge more whole.
By exploring this myth, clients can identify their own "tasks" and tap into the inner strength needed to face them. The myth becomes a source of inspiration, helping them see their challenges as opportunities for transformation—even when the outcome is still unknown.
Why Myths Matter
The enduring power of myth lies in its ability to transcend time, culture, and circumstance. Whether you're in therapy or just navigating life, myths offer a way to make sense of the world and our place in it. They remind us that we’re not alone in our struggles—they’re part of a shared human experience.
As a therapist, weaving myths into my practice allows me to create a space for compassion, creativity, and transformation. Through stories, I help clients connect with their inner wisdom, find meaning in their challenges, and emerge with a deeper sense of self.