Pamela Kirst, PhD

Growing up in the Midwest gave me an earthy practicality and an appreciation for  the natural world that’s reflected in my work as well as in my garden. 

I studied Psychology and Religion at the University of Iowa, then went to UCLA, where I received a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology. My minor areas of concentration there were Developmental and Social Psychology.  These threads—psychology, spirituality, how humans develop from the beginnings of their lives to the very end, and the power and importance of family and relationships—are woven together in my life. These threads connect the creative interests I pursue, the healing work I love doing with clients, and hold the heart of where I find meaning.

After exploring life in California, I completed an internship in Boston at Judge Baker Guidance Center, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, and worked at a Child Guidance Center. Later, I joined the faculty of the Women’s Studies Department at San Diego State University. Eventually, I returned to Los Angeles to teach and supervise graduate students at UCLA, and Loyola Marymount University.

My vivid and active dream life drew me to Jungian Analysis. My desire to decipher the symbols and meaning of dreams led me into the Analytic Training Program at the C.G. Jung Institute of Los Angeles. There I became an analyst, earning a Diploma in Analytical Studies. I’m now a Certified Jungian Psychoanalyst, a member of the Los Angeles Society of Jungian Analysts, and also the International Association of Analytical Psychology. 

Family life and parenting is important to me. My son is now a young adult, actively launching his own life. Our dog, Winston, has been a mainstay through the years, and sometimes joins me in the office, freely offering his calming presence—and sometimes his advice—to interested clients. 

I’ve lectured locally and nationally on Dreaming and Creativity, the Negative Mother, Childhood Wounding, and Women and Soul. My essays and articles have appeared in the Los Angeles Times and the Los Angeles Times Sunday Magazine, The Los Angeles Psychologist, and Psychological Perspectives, as well as other places. In addition to writing, I am an active photographer, especially drawn to capturing my garden as it shifts and changes, as well as portraits of family and friends. 

Currently, I am on the teaching faculty of the C.G. Jung Institute of Los Angeles, Secretary of the Board of Directors of the Institute, and on the editorial board of the Institute Journal. 

PhD in Clinical Psychology
Department of Psychology, UCLA

Jungian Analyst CG Jung Institute Los Angeles