In his new book, Laurence Barrett explores how coaches and consultants can begin to work with symbol as part of their practice, blending the key principles of Jungian psychology with case studies and practical applications.
The book launch event, originally held in London, was recorded and is now available to watch as a free on-demand resource.
This recorded session offers an opportunity to revisit the ideas shared on the evening: reflections on symbol, the unconscious, and why developing a symbolic attitude matters in developmental and coaching work.
Watch the recorded book launch
Originally recorded at:
Sutherland Labs, 52 Short's Gardens, London WC2H 9AN
Wednesday 17th December 2025
18:00-20:00
The Jungian concept of the symbolic attitude provides a valuable framework for coaches seeking to navigate the complexities of the human mind. It prompts us to notice the rich tapestry of symbols and metaphors arising from the unconscious and reveals what may be happening 'beneath the surface' of the mind. Coaches who have developed a symbolic attitude can better help their clients explore their inner worlds and create a deeper understanding of themselves and their potential. They can support more profound and impactful coaching experiences that go beyond superficial goals to support growth and transformation in more profound ways.
Introducing Symbol: An Introduction to the Importance of Symbol in Human Development
1. The Location of Symbol: Introducing a Jungian Model of the Psyche
2. Form and Function: The Many Faces of Symbol and Its Significance for Our Development
3. Developing a Symbolic Attitude: A Foundation for Coaching the Unconscious
4. Exchanging Gifts: The Role of Symbol in the Coaching Relationship
5. Beginning to Play: A Resolution of the Tension in Developmental Work
6. Set and Setting: The Way Mindset and Context Shapes Coaching
7. Tracing the Spiral: An Introduction to the Principles of Active Imagination
8. Coaching With Dreams: Considering the Value of Dreamwork in a Coaching Practice
9. Symbol in Culture: Exploring the Significance of Symbol in Communities, Organisations and Societies
10. Returning to the Unconscious: Exploring Symbol, Soma and an Immersion in the World Around Us
Some Final Reflections
'Laurence Barrett is an entertaining storyteller and has written a sweeping book that includes rich material from his own coaching practice. As a coaching supervisor and an educator, he has a depth and breadth of understanding that is quite unique. He unpacks the symbolic life in a way that I have not encountered so far and the kaleidoscope of ideas he creates is inspiring and extremely valuable. Students, coaches, and analysts from all walks of Jungian psychology would benefit from working with this material'.
Tess Castleman, Jungian training analyst and former member of the Curatorium of the C. G. Jung Institute of Zurich.
'This book is a profound and original contribution to the coaching field. Laurence brings Jungian psychology to life with clarity, depth, and practical insight, inviting coaches to engage more consciously with symbol, play, and the unconscious. This book doesn’t just inform practice; it stretches the coach’s capacity for reflection, imagination, and inner growth. A poetically written and a psychologically rigorous work that will leave a lasting impression'.
Verity Hannell, Programme Director, Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching, Henley Business School
Laurence Barrett has coached senior leaders and led change programmes for international organisations for over 30 years. Laurence trained as a coach and a supervisor at the Tavistock Institute.
He holds an MSc in Analytical (Jungian) Psychology from the British Psychotherapy Foundation and an MBA from Lancaster University, along with a Foundation Certificate in Group Analysis from the Institute of Group Analysis . He also holds certificates in ecopsychology and ecotherapy from the Pacifica Graduate Institute.
He is also the author of 'A Jungian Approach to Coaching: The Theory and practice of Turning Leaders into People'.