On the therapist's couch

It is likely there is no need for someone who has figured out how reality, inclusive of societies, political programs and the like, is structured, to require therapy. Even Freudian analysis, (or Jungian), which Clarissa seems to argue is devoid of a dogmatic agenda, relies on drawing one out on the basis of one’s internal construction of authority.

A question never addressed by such therapy is what if one’s internal construction of authority happens to match the external structure of authority as it presently is? That is, one may fear a certain manifestation of authority because it creates a clear and present danger to one’s well-being.

If this kind of reality did indeed match one’s perceptions of it, there would be every reason to be emotionally distressed. However, psychoanalysis typically maintains that experiencing a distressing emotion means one is unable to grasp reality as it is — that is, in a demonstrably “non-hysterical” manner.

So the very question of authority and how it functions in terms of actual power relationships is effectively scuttled by psychoanalytical treatment.

It may be that one is is need of dealing with the aftermath of relationships that have long died, but psychoanalysis begs this question, rather than addressing it.

Intellectual shamanism differs from this psychoanalytical approach because it addresses the issue of power as a real force in the world.  It may lead you to understand, "Yes, something seems to be attacking you because it is in fact attacking you.  Now, learn to see that clearly.  It may take some time.   Take a deep breath and consider your strategies."