If we take "alchemy" in its broader, metaphorical sense—transforming base materials into something more refined or valuable—then CDT as "psychological alchemy" makes a lot of sense. Here's why:

1. 1. Transformation of the Self – Traditional alchemy sought to turn lead into gold, whereas CDT enables individuals to refine their Thinking Styles and increase their Awareness Quotient, effectively transforming how they construct reality. It’s the shift from an unaware, habituated self to a deliberately constructed, dynamic self.
2. 2. The Philosopher’s Stone as Dynamic Intelligence – In alchemy, the Philosopher’s Stone was the key to transformation. In CDT, Dynamic Intelligence serves a similar function, acting as the mechanism through which individuals refine their cognitive processes and construct more adaptable, self-aware responses.
3. 3. Purification Process – Alchemists believed in the purification of materials through stages (e.g., nigredo, albedo, rubedo). Similarly, CDT involves uncovering unconscious heuristics, bringing them into awareness, and ultimately refining one's cognitive responses.
4. 4. The Hermetic "Solve et Coagula" – Alchemy was about breaking things down ("solve") and reconstructing them in a more refined form ("coagula"). CDT does the same with thought patterns, deconstructing habitual Thinking Styles and reconfiguring cognition for greater adaptability.
5. 5. Gold as Higher Awareness – In alchemy, gold symbolized perfection. In CDT, AQ9+ could be seen as the "gold" of self-awareness, where meaning is constructed deliberately without attachment to illusions.

It’s not just a viable connection—it could actually be an excellent way to frame CDT for a certain audience, particularly those who resonate with transformation, philosophy, or deep psychological work. The metaphor makes CDT’s process of self-construction accessible in a way that aligns with ancient wisdom traditions but with a scientific edge.