I am in private practice in San Francisco's Noe Valley, doing psychotherapy and consultation from a dynamic and Jungian perspective. I work as a registered psychological assistant (PSB 27698) under the supervision of Jungian analyst and clinical psychologist Carol McRae, Ph.D. I have a special interest in active imagination, especially sandplay, and in work with dreams. My practice focuses primarily on individual work with adults; I also see older adolescents and do short-term work with couples.
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My particular focus is on a long-term process which allows the psyche to unfold at its own pace. At the same time, I know that this is not always desirable or possible, and it is not a limitation of my practice.
I welcome people who have had life-altering traumatic experiences such as accidents, abuse and/or sexual trauma; women coping with breast cancer and its aftermath; and people with disabilities. Although it is not my primary interest, I am experienced in working with substance abuse issues. My practice is open to people of varied sexual orientations and expressions.
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After a lifetime career of mental health case management and program direction for nonprofit community agencies, I returned to school to work on a doctorate in clinical psychology. Coursework is complete at the California Institute of Integral Studies in San Francisco; my dissertation is currently on hold.
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A two-year predoctoral clinical internship at the Jung Institute of San Francisco was a wonderful opportunity to practice in-depth psychotherapy in a richly supportive environment.I was invited to return for an additional internship year, continuing to study and work at the Institute's Whitney Clinic, a program which provides long term Jungian-oriented psychotherapy to those who would otherwise not be able to afford it.
My own journey has included many years of Jungian analysis. The experience continues to be challenging, joyous and transforming. It is, as well, the best possible preparation and training for working as a therapist.
My studies were slowed down -- though not stopped -- when I lost a pedestrian/street car encounter several years ago, resulting in some permanent mobility limitations. My new career direction has thus proved to have practical value -- I can sit down to work! -- as well as being deeply satisfying. Lingering problems from that encounter have also caused me to put my dissertation on hold and focus my energy on my clinical practice.
My website, Imagination, is a continually evolving process of active imagination using the resources of the internet. It is limited only by time and energy, and ideas are always welcome.
Although I am definitely not a professional web designer, I do enjoy the creative challenge of working with people in the helping professions who would like to have a simple, easy to manage, yet elegant web presence.
I am also available as a "soul friend" or companion (rather than as a therapist), drawing upon both my Jungian experience and my extensive training in spiritual direction. This work includes dream consultation, creative journeying, the development of a spiritual practice appropriate to the individual, and the designing of rituals to mark special events. I am an ordained Univeral Life Church minister.
Contact Marilyn Geist by e-mail
(warning: this is not a secure e-mail address)
or by voice mail: 415-789-7642
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If you would like learn more about psychotherapy, here are two books I have found especially helpful. For ordering information, click on the book titles. Boundaries of the Soul : The Practice of Jung's Psychology by Jungian analyst June Singer. This book provides a clear and accessible description of the actual process of Jungian analysis and psychotherapy, bringing the reader into the consulting room.
It's Your Hour by Michael Bettinger, Ph.D. Although this new book is targeted specifically to a gay/lesbian audience, it would be of great help for anyone seeking information about the kinds of psychotherapy available, how to locate the right therapist for you, and what questions to ask during your search process. The writing is clear and specific, with a refreshing absence of jargon.
Note:, You have not formed a therapy relationship with Marilyn Geist unless she has agreed to accept you as a client and both therapist and client have signed a written agreement.
Updated 10/02
More information on "The Birth of Aphrodite"