4 Spiritual Themes (Archetypes) for BH

Because mythology (as meta-narratives) transcends our individual struggles, they provide a wide lens or framework to view of the intricate landscapes of our lives, illuminating the highs and lows, the peaks and valleys, the challenges and the triumphs, the winding paths and unexpected detours that we encounter. By recognizing these universal patterns within the stories, we can connect our personal struggles to a larger narrative, gaining a higher perspective or a newfound vantage point allowing us to contextualize our experiences within a broader tapestry of meaning, and find the language to articulate our experiences, giving voice to the often ineffable emotions and anxieties that accompany a spiritual crisis. In other words, the language of these stories, imbued with archetypal symbolism, gives voice to our existential wrestling with profound questions of isolation, mortality, freedom, and purpose. It tames the wildness, chaos and uncertainties of life.

Spirit Play (or Godly Play) storytelling facilitates this expanded perspective. By physically interacting with the story as it unfolds on the floor, participants are invited to observe its contours and landmarks, ​but from a safer distance, a kind of a ​bird's-eye view. The gap between the observer and the narrative creates space for reflection, allowing individuals to identify with elements of the story while maintaining a healthy distance from their own thoughts, feelings, and reactions. In essence, they learn to distinguish between the self and the experience, recognizing that they are not merely their reactions but also the silent watcher who observes them. Therefore, Spirit Play helps participants to move beyond a survival-oriented response to pain, towards a place where painful stories can be retold within a larger, more inclusive narrative. This process facilitates the metabolization of pain transforming it into something that can be utilized for one's learning, growth and healing. 

​Below are some of the few significant archetypal patterns that BH patients reflect on in spiritual care support groups that I facilitate.  

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(1) The Journey Archetype
In Behavioral Health, many patients find resonance with the ancient and universal archetype of the journey, particularly its theme of overcoming obstacles. This resonates deeply with them because the human experience, especially when navigating mental health challenges, often mirrors the struggles and triumphs of the character who is journeying through a life struggle.

​Within this mythological framework, the traveller frequently encounters a "threshold" – a liminal space where they may feel temporarily stuck, lost, disoriented, or profoundly overwhelmed by the weight of their circumstances. This threshold represents a critical juncture, a point of significant challenge and potential transformation. To successfully navigate this crucial threshold and progress on their personal quest, the traveler in the archetypal narrative typically benefits from the support of a guide or helper. In the context of behavioral health, this "guide" can manifest in various forms: a therapist, a supportive family member, a spiritual guide/mentor, a community resource, or even an internal awakening of self-awareness. The support may include any of the following: physical support, encouraging words, helping the traveler recall their inherent strengths, fostering self-wisdom or insight, helping the traveler see by revealing readily available tools, or broadening their perspective beyond a narrow focus to illuminate the path towards clarity, and renewed inner strength and agency.

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(2) Darkness to Light Archetype (Not Seeing to Seeing)
The journey from darkness to light is a universal human archetype, deeply rooted in mythology. It mirrors our progression from ignorance to understanding, from not perceiving the complete picture to finally seeing the full scope of possibilities. This transition often brings anxiety and discomfort as we venture into the unknown. Stepping into new, expansive territory demands adaptation to a transformed landscape. It signifies a movement from stagnation and lifelessness towards growth, flourishing, and vitality.

However, this is a process that cannot be rushed. Attempting to accelerate it is counterproductive. Instead, one must allow the process to unfold naturally, at its own pace and in its own season. The key is to lean into the inherent flow of this natural transformation and truly embrace the journey of becoming.

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(3) The Archetypes to Represent Fear
Therapists often highlight the amygdala as a vital part of our ancient brain, a friend that keeps us safe during moments of danger. However, repeated exposure to intense threats and danger can cause it to continue firing signals of potential danger even when we are safe. This overactivity is a common struggle for many behavioral health (BH) patients, who are often overwhelmed by fear and anxiety. Consequently, archetypes embodying the amygdala and fear resonate deeply with them.

In mythology, the amygdala is frequently symbolized by raw, animalistic representations: predators like tigers, wolves, reptiles like snakes or crocodiles, or mythical creatures such as dragons (reptiles with wings). More modern interpretations of this character portray humans transformed into monsters, driven by predatory and primal impulses (like the undead: zombies & vampires). 

Therefore, learning to tame and regulate the amygdala is an essential skill. When fight-flight response hijacks our body, we are unable to see the whole picture. Our attention narrows and is hyperfocused on the perceived threat. So what are our to-do’s when anxiety and fear are loud, overwhelming our senses? Who do we go to for support and guidance? What wisdom do we need to avoid being paralyzed by fear?

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(4) The Storm Archetype​
Our struggles with emotional and mental health are often invisible, felt primarily within our bodies. They can overwhelm us, occupying our minds and hearts like uninvited guests with free rent space. The archetype that is readily accessible to BH patients is that of a storm because it best describes this experience. With the storm archetype, one is encouraged to face the storm rather than retreat. It means openly welcoming the storm, embodying patience and then allowing it to pass. It includes the skill of bending and flowing; hence any rigid attempts to resist, cling tightly, or wall ourselves to control the flow will ultimately lead to negative consequences.

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