A wounded healer is a concept derived from the work of Carl Jung, referring to someone who uses their own pain, struggles, or trauma as a source of healing for others. This archetype recognizes that the wounds a person has experienced—whether emotional, physical, or spiritual—can lead to a deeper understanding of others’ suffering. The wounded healer is often more empathetic and intuitive, having walked a similar path as those they help, and can transform their own vulnerabilities into a powerful tool for connection and healing.
At the same time, the wounded healer must be mindful of their own unresolved pain. If unaddressed, their wounds can interfere with their ability to help others effectively, sometimes causing them to project their struggles onto those they assist. The journey of the wounded healer is one of balance: embracing their wounds as a source of strength while continuing their own healing process. This archetype underscores the idea that healing is not a linear path but a reciprocal relationship, where helping others can also facilitate personal growth and transformation.
