In Memoriam: Dr. Lionel Corbett
Depth Psychologist • Mystic • Guide of the Soul
Today, we honor the passing of a true elder of depth psychology, Dr. Lionel Corbett — healer of the soul, seer of the sacred, and teacher to thousands.
Born in Manchester, trained in medicine and psychiatry, Dr. Corbett followed the call of the unconscious — from the C.G. Jung Institute in Chicago to the hills of Santa Barbara, where he helped shape Pacifica Graduate Institute into a sanctuary of soul.
His life’s work was devoted to the religious function of the psyche — helping us meet suffering not as a diagnosis but as initiation. Through dreams, archetypes, and synchronicity, he showed us how the sacred reveals itself in even our darkest hours.
Author of:
The Soul in Anguish
Psyche and the Sacred
The Religious Function of the Psyche
Understanding Evil
…and many more.
He reminded us:
“Soul does not speak in facts—it speaks in symbols.”
“Suffering can be the path through which we meet the divine.”
“Every crisis holds the seed of transformation.”
Thank you, Dr. Corbett, for teaching us how to walk into the depths with courage—and come back with meaning.
Rest in the mystery you so loved. You will be forever missed, and eternally echoed in the sacred work.
So sad to hear of the passing of Dr Corbett. He was one of my favorite professors at Pacifica. He was a beautiful combination of intellect, heart and soul❤️🙏🏻
Dr Corbett was able to reach the most profound depths of the soul and meet you right there. His books are among my most cherished. I am grateful to have learned from you, dear Professor. Please walk with us.