Toula Gordillo
Toula Gordillo (born 17 May 1972) is an Australian clinical psychologist, educator, author, researcher, and international speaker. She developed Story Image Therapy (SIT)[1] and SIT Shadow Work,[2] therapeutic frameworks that use storytelling and symbolic imagery to address mental health challenges.
Gordillo operates two professional websites: Shadow Work Solutions and Dr. Toula Gordillo, where she provides workshops and resources related to her therapeutic approaches.
Early life and education
[edit]Gordillo was born in Australia and spent her childhood traveling with her parents. Her father encouraged storytelling through oral traditions, while her mother emphasized formal education. In 1981, she achieved state-level academic recognition in Queensland.
During her teenage years, Gordillo experienced traumatic events that later influenced her work in psychology. Her exposure to Indigenous Australian cultures inspired her integration of storytelling with therapeutic practices. Gordillo earned undergraduate degrees in arts and education, a master’s degree in clinical psychology, and a doctorate in creative writing from the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Career and contributions
[edit]Story Image Therapy
[edit]Story Image Therapy (SIT) emerged from Gordillo’s work with youth in Education Queensland in the early 2000s.[3] It involves the use of symbolic storytelling to help individuals explore and manage emotions. Her doctoral research indicated that 79% of participants found storytelling and imagery effective for coping with psychological distress.[4]
SIT Shadow Work
[edit]In 2021, Gordillo introduced SIT Shadow Work, a psychotherapeutic framework drawing from Carl Jung's analytical psychology and ancient philosophies such as Stoicism and Taoism.[5] The approach focuses on integrating the "shadow self" for personal growth and healing.
Workshops and resources
[edit]Gordillo conducts workshops integrating storytelling and psychological practices. Her websites provide resources, tools, and information about her methodologies.[6]
Publications
[edit]Gordillo's works include academic papers and books that explore the intersections of psychology and storytelling. Notable publications include:
- Shadows of Sylvaheim[7]
- Healing the Healer: Writing Academic Papers as Jungian Action Research[8]
- The Hero’s Journey and Story Image Therapy[9]
Professional affiliations
[edit]Gordillo is affiliated with several professional organizations, including:
She has presented her work at conferences like the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Conference.
External links
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Story Image Therapy (SIT)". Shadow Work Solutions. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
- ^ "SIT Shadow Work". Dr. Toula Gordillo. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
- ^ "Story Image Therapy". Shadow Work Solutions. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
- ^ "University of the Sunshine Coast Research Bank". University of the Sunshine Coast. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
- ^ "SIT Shadow Work". Dr. Toula Gordillo. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
- ^ "Workshops". Dr. Toula Gordillo. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
- ^ "University of the Sunshine Coast Research Bank". University of the Sunshine Coast. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
- ^ "Healing the Healer". Academia Letters. Retrieved 2024-12-06.
- ^ "The Hero's Journey and Story Image Therapy". Academia. Retrieved 2024-12-06.