Psychosynthesis

Psychosynthesis is a holistic therapy approach that focuses on personal growth and development. Practitioners of Psychosynthesis guide individuals to synthesize various aspects of the self to develop greater self-awareness, and deeper understanding of their own purpose, meaning and values. Psychosynthesis was a pioneer in its own right. It is comparable to many of the techniques we see in therapy today, such as the model of Internal Family Systems, Positive and Spiritual psychology, mindfulness practice and more. This method of therapy is also viewed as a transpersonal approach because of its focus on integrating many aspects of the human experience, including: spiritual, emotional, cognitive, physical and existential aspects. Individuals seeking to learn about themselves on a deeper level or feel more connected with their environment often benefit from Psychosynthesis.

HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF PSYCHOSYNTHESIS

Psychosynthesis was founded and developed by Italian psychiatrist Roberto Assagioli. Assagioli began his academic endeavors with an interest in Freud’s psychoanalysis. However, Assagioli later felt that Freud overlooked important aspects of the human experience. He advocated for a more inclusive, holistic perspective on humanity and therapy overall.

The creation of psychosynthesis came about from Assagioli’s own perspectives on psychology, therapy, human behavior, his interest in other healing modalities such as yoga, and philosophy, theology, and the work of Carl Jung. He focused on the individual’s spiritual experience and how various parts of “the self” attempt to reach harmony. Assagioli believed a person’s primary task is to find a sense of completeness within the self and a connection to a larger whole, such as one’s community or the world. 

THEORY AND PRINCIPLES

There are a few core ideas crucial to psychosynthesis: The self, subpersonalities, disidentification, synthesis, and the will. Self is an expression of the core of who you are. Often times, having a clear view of self gets distorted by the subpersonalities created from our past, emotions, fears, trauma, negative scripts, limiting belief systems etc. When we explore beyond that which we already know about ourselves, the impact from the knowledge gained through these discoveries can be life changing.

When a person disidentifies from a subpersonality, they achieve a greater understanding of their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In doing so they gain freedom to use and direct their will towards choice, rather than being stuck in one way of existing. Empathy and presence provide a path to accomplish disidentification. When an individual is fully seen and understood by another, in a safe and trusting environment, they can authentically explore their emotional experience and be themselves without constraint or limitation. Through this level of introspection, and through the synthesis of an individual’s many parts, we gain a greater sense of self, empowerment, direction and joy.

WHAT IS A PSYCHOSYNTHESIS SESSION LIKE?

At a basic level, psychosynthesis is a type of talk therapy. It involves focusing on introspection and exploration of the unconscious. Introspection, or empathic self-exploration, is highly encouraged in psychosynthesis, as it allows a person to consciously explore various aspects of the self in order to increase insight and allow for growth and development.

Guided imagery, meditation, symbolic artwork, journaling, various forms of directed movement and other techniques that encourage creativity, imagination, and holding space may all be used to help an individual become more introspective. Psychosynthesis practitioners believe nearly any method that assists an individual in their personal evolvement is useful.

HOW CAN PSYCHOSYNTHESIS HELP? 

Psychosynthesis is designed to help with a wide range of issues and with human development in general. Those who practice Psychosynthesis believe it can effectively treat neuroses, trauma, anxiety, and depression. As this method of therapy is focused on growth and development, it may also be particularly useful for individuals who have difficulty understanding themselves, finding meaning and purpose in their lives, or those grappling with feeling stuck in their own existence.

The use of psychosynthesis can extend beyond just therapy and mental health. The core concepts of psychosynthesis, including personal growth and connection between self and others, have been used in education, medicine, and business.