Psychosynthesis
Psychosynthesis is an integrative transpersonal psychology that offers a therapeutic approach derived from Psychoanalysis focusing on personal growth and development.
This model was founded by Italian psychiatrist Roberto Assagioli (1964), a contemporary of Sigmund Freud (founder of Psychoanalysis 1896) and Carl Jung (founder of Analytical Psychology 1912).
Roberto Assagioli was not only a psychiatrist but also a medical doctor, a psychoanalyst, a linguist holding a wealth of knowledge and experience. His knowledge of Sanskrit meant that he was able to read the Vedas (the ancient texts of India) informing his own belief system and practices. Esoteric movement and spiritual traditions fascinated him.
His experience in Psychotherapy felt incomplete as he believed a height and depth psychology was needed underpinned by his view that not only does our history shape us, but so does our innate potential. Put another way, while our childhood experience affects our present living, we also have within us the vast human potential for healing and change. He considered difficulties in life not simply as problems to be solved but more as signals or ‘signposts’ that, if followed, explored and worked through will lead us to living a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Psychosynthesis then draws upon both Western Psychology and Eastern philosophy and mysticism holding a broader holistic context which points towards Self Realization and Self Actualisation. Psychosynthesis defines the energy propelling us towards growth and manifestation as coming directly from our Will. Thus, the journey of Psychosynthesis therapy involves releasing this energy, which can often be trapped in old patterns and thoughts, stopping us from realising our true potential.
This psycho-spiritual aspect denotes that there is a spiritual element to life which can be manifested in many different ways. This spiritual element is our core essential being, the Self.
Psychosynthesis holds each person as a spiritual Self, which means that we are truly personal and individual yet at the same time absolutely connected to all living things.
In this context of the Self there is an inherent search for who we are and the desire to be the best we can be and to find meaning and purpose.
“Psychosynthesis is a method of psychological development and self realisation. For those who refuse to submit passively to the play of forces which is going on within them…and are determined to become the master of their own lives…”
– Roberto Assagioli
