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ABSTRACT: Mandala symbolism historically has strong links to Jung's individuation process and transpersonal psychology. Although a variety of constructive techniques may be used for creating mandalas to reflect and/or enhance an individual's level of psychological wholeness and integration, the Lowenfeld Mosaic Technique (LMT) has received little attention for its potential utility in this area. The purpose of this article, which draws upon the literature as well as the author's experiences as a clinician, is to discuss mandala symbolism in the context of the LMT, and how the LMT might be used as an assessment procedure as well as a dynamic, interactive tool for promoting insight and self-understanding. A case example from the literature is provided, which illuminates how the technique was used and useful in enhancing the individuation process for a female client struggling with and exploring various personal and transpersonal issues. Limitations of the technique are also discussed, as well as needs for future research.
Carl Jung is widely considered to be the first prominent transpersonal psychologist, and ''his work in the transpersonal realm prefigured much of what is current in the field'' (Scotton, 1996, p. 39). Historically, therefore, a substantial degree of overlap has existed between Jungian analytical psychology and transpersonal psychology (Brookes, 1980; Levy, 1983). Both orientations emphasize that psychological development should include growth to increasingly higher levels of consciousness, that the transcendent lies within and is available to all persons, the integration of various wisdom traditions, and the importance of addressing transpersonal as well as personal issues, problems, and concerns (Scotton, 1996). Although there are also important differences between these two approaches (Levy, 1983; Walsh&Vaughan, 1980), it is useful for those who incorporate a transpersonal perspective in their work to be familiar with Jung, particularly his concept of individuation. Jung's psychology (like the psychologies of Grof, Wilber, Assagioli and others) may be viewed as one form of - or approach to - transpersonal psychology (Cortright, 1997).
The purpose of this article is to discuss how the individuation process might be reflected and/or enhanced in psychotherapy through the construction of mandalas. While many readers may be familiar with Jung and the individuation process, as well as with mandalas, this article will illustrate this process by focusing on the Lowenfeld Mosaic...