ADAM CLAYTON MA MUKCP
Soulful and Compassionate Therapy,
Alwoodley, North Leeds
In-person & Online
Why Dreams are Important
Throughout history, dreams have held a mysterious place in human consciousness. From antiquity, they were seen as divine communications or guides through life’s dilemmas. While Sigmund Freud’s The Interpretation of Dreams (1900) established their role in modern therapy, it was Carl Jung who expanded our understanding of how dreams help us locate lost parts of our psyche.
​
Jung believed our waking mind is often dominated by the ego—the rational "everyday" self. Our "dream-maker" provides a vital counterpoint, offering a bigger, more balanced picture of who we are. Growth and flourishing often depend on our ability to receive these insights.
​
In our work together, I invite you to bring your dreams into the room. Alongside your personal history and current life situations, we will remain open to what your unconscious is "flagging" for your attention.
"But I can't remember my dreams..."
​
This is a very common concern. While research suggests we all dream, we don’t always retain them. The good news is that the unconscious seems to co-operate with our intentions; the more open you are to discussing and recording them, the more vibrant they tend to become. Often, the very decision to begin therapy sets off a "chain reaction" that increases your capacity to dream. To help your dreaming mind "co-operate," try keeping a notebook or voice recorder by your bed, as the simple act of staying still and capturing a few key images or feelings immediately upon waking is often the bridge that brings the dream's wisdom into your conscious day.
​
"My dreams make no sense (or are embarrassing)...."
​
The 'dream-maker' uses all kinds of images—from the mundane events of yesterday to recurring themes from your childhood—to create a bespoke 'patchwork quilt.'
On the surface, a dream can seem nonsensical, weird, or disorientating. Much like reading a myth or a fairy tale, the key is to sink beneath the surface and allow the symbols to make associations with your memories, relationships, and yearnings.
What about shameful material? Dreams often feature themes of exposure, nakedness, or sex. Jung viewed these as evidence of the Shadow—the parts of being human that our family or culture may have deemed "inferior" or "dark." By bringing these dreams into the light of a supportive therapeutic relationship, we take the first step in loosening the power of shame.
How I work with dreams
Your dreams feature both universal human symbols and images that hold a very specific, private meaning for you. If you entrust your dreams to our process, we will work creatively and sensitively with whatever emerges.
I view dreams as the "leading edge" of our emerging consciousness. It is a birthing process, and it is my privilege to be alongside you in this deeply vulnerable and human work.
For more about I integrate Jungian principles into my work click here.