A Stein Full of Jung: Interview w. Murray Stein ep4A Stein Full of Jung: Interview w. Murray Stein ep4
Father Bill W.
Father Bill W and Jungian analyst Dr Murray Stein compare AA’s spiritual path with Jungian depth psychology, focusing on addiction as a block to inner growth. Their conversation touches on dreams, active imagination, and how finding a higher power can support long-term recovery and personal development.
41:14•14 Sept 2026
Jung, AA, and Catching the Spirit: Father Bill W Talks With Murray Stein
Episode Overview
- Deep transformation in recovery depends on finding a higher power or inner spirit, whether through AA or analytic work.
- Jungian analysis differs from other therapies by centring spirituality, dreams, and lifelong development toward wholeness.
- Addictions of many kinds can block individuation, and AA is seen as a helpful way to clear that block so growth can continue.
- The analytic process often includes a confusing “falling apart” phase, similar to the liminal struggle of early sobriety.
- Practices like dream work and active imagination offer structured ways to relate to the unconscious, the self, and a felt sense of the divine.
“I think Jungian psychology and AA are on the same path. We're trying to do the same work for the world, for individuals, first of all.”
What can we learn from those who have battled addiction and studied the psyche in depth? This instalment of *A Stein Full of Jung* brings together Father Bill W, an Episcopal priest in long-term recovery, and Jungian analyst Dr Murray Stein for a rich conversation that blends 12-step spirituality with Jungian psychology. You’ll hear Dr Stein answer a central question for many people in recovery: can the deep transformation associated with Jungian analysis happen without years of costly therapy?
He shares Jung’s famous response to alcoholic patient Rowland H.
– that only a “higher power” could bring the necessary energy for change – and points out that AA’s programme opens a similar doorway: “You have to find the spirit yourself, and otherwise, the steps are just, you know, formalities.” The chat compares different therapeutic styles, showing how Jungian work stands apart with its strong respect for spirituality, its focus on dreams, and its concern with lifelong psychological and spiritual development, or individuation.
Addiction, Stein notes, blocks this development, whether it’s alcohol, food, sex, or even over-exercise. AA can help remove that blockage so a person’s deeper potential can start to unfold. Dr Stein explains why Jungian analysis can feel like “falling to pieces”, linking it to initiation rites and the frightening, confusing middle ground of early sobriety. He outlines stages like confession, education, and transformation, stressing that trust and honesty are essential on both sides of the analytic relationship.
For those curious about spiritual practices beyond meetings, you’ll hear practical talk on dreams and active imagination as ways of relating to the unconscious, the self, and even an inner sense of God. Father Bill and Dr Stein end by suggesting that AA and Jungian psychology share a common aim: helping people become more whole, more loving, and more fully themselves.
If you’ve ever wondered how depth psychology might sit alongside your 12-step journey, this conversation may give you plenty to ponder — and perhaps a nudge to catch the spirit, not just work the steps.
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