A psychoanalytic psychologist would most likely say that a person who feels intense guilt over envying a coworker who was just promoted is experiencing neurotic symptoms. Neurotic symptoms involve excessive and irrational anxiety, guilt, and distress. It is common for individuals with neurotic symptoms to have unresolved conflicts and issues related to their unconscious mind. In this case, the guilt and envy towards the coworker may stem from underlying feelings of inadequacy or unresolved childhood conflicts.
