The Journey to the Shadow

Presenter Ed Geraty, LCSW-C (MD), LICSW (WV), LCSW (VA), LICSW (DC) 

CEUs: Category 1 | 3.0 

This 3-hour workshop guides participants through the exploration and integration of their Shadow—the unconscious or disowned aspects of the self. Drawing on Jungian psychology, participants will gain insight into how hidden traits influence emotions, behaviors, relationships, and decision-making. The workshop combines theoretical understanding with practical exercises, including reflection, journaling, guided meditations, creative expression, and discussion. Through these experiences, participants learn to identify, understand, and integrate their Shadow, fostering self-awareness, emotional resilience, and authentic living.

Workshop Objectives:

At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

1. Define the Shadow and understand its role in the psyche.
2. Recognize signs of Shadow activation in emotions, behaviors, and triggers.
3. Understand psychological mechanisms such as projection, repression, and defense mechanisms.
4. Identify personal Shadow traits through self-reflection, journaling, and observation.
5. Engage in techniques for Shadow integration, including guided meditation, parts work, and creative expression.
6. Explore the impact of Shadow in relationships, leadership, and societal contexts.
7. Develop strategies to transform disowned traits into strengths.
8. Create a personalized Shadow Work plan for ongoing self-awareness and growth.

Agenda:

• 30 mins intro and definitions
• 30 mins signs of Shadow activation
• 30 mins psychological mechanisms; projection, reporession, defense mechanisms
• 15 mins break
• 30 mins. integrating the Shadow
• 30 mins identifying personal shadow traits
• 15 Q/A and wrap up

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