Psychosynthesis
As a therapeutic approach, Psychosynthesis focuses on personal growth and development. Therapists of psychosynthesis presuppose that individuals tend to synthesize various aspects of the self to evolved and become self-actualized. This method of therapy can be looked at as a transpersonal approach since it integrates many aspects of the human experience, which includes spiritual, emotional, cognitive, and physical aspects.
What to expect?
Psychosynthesis proposes that empathy offers a path to disidentification. As per psychosynthesis, when an individual is fully felt and understood by another, they can truly explore their emotional experience and be themselves without constraint.
Another important aspect of psychosynthesis is the idea of the self. Assagioli thought individuals can explore their personal experience as it becomes conscious through introspection, giving them a sense of identity. He theorized, to make changes and avoid unconscious repetition, an individual must engage their will.
Assagioli also theorized that people are not unified wholes but are instead composed of various subpersonalities. Synthesis, is a process in which these subpersonalities takes the form of a larger, organic whole. Although the subpersonalities might not always exist in perfect harmony, synthesis involves finding a way to empathically relate to each aspect of the self.
Assagioli was interested in other levels of consciousness, like the superconscious, is a key aspect of psychosynthesis. The superconscious is understood as a higher level of consciousness that is not directly experienced but inferred from moments of peak experiences. Connecting to the superconscious is understood to involve a profound moment when an individual feels both connected to the world around them and as if they perceive the deeper meaning of life.
How does it work?
At the fundamental level, psychosynthesis is a talking cure. Like psychoanalysis, it’s focus is on introspection and exploration of the unconscious. Introspection, or empathic self-exploration, is the most important concept in psychosynthesis, as it permits a person to consciously explore various aspects of the self in order to increase insight and leads to growth and development.
Symbolic artwork, guided imagery, and journaling might all be used to assist an individual attain introspection. Other techniques that can be employed in psychosynthesis are meditation, gestalt techniques, and encouraging creativity. People who practice psychosynthesis believe nearly any method that assists an individual in their personal evolvement is good enough to be employed.
When is it used?
Like psychoanalysis, psychosynthesis is a broad head term under theories of psychology, fashioned to help with a wide range of issues and with human development in general. According to Assagioli, psychosynthesis could effectively treat neuroses, trauma, anxiety, and depression. As this method of therapy focuses on growth and development, it can also be particularly useful for individuals who have difficulty understanding themselves or seeking meaning and purpose in their lives.
The employment of psychosynthesis can extend beyond just therapy and mental health. The core concepts of psychosynthesis, includes personal growth and connection between self and others, have found its uses education, medicine, and business.
Role of therapist:
Training in psychosythesis typically involves attending training workshops, which is conducted either in institutes or online. There are various levels of training that can be pursued by one, from basic to advanced. To qualify for advanced levels of training, one must typically have an advanced degree in counseling or psychology-related field. Somepne who is trained in psychosynthesis may qualify for certification. Training is available in the United States but is less popular in India.
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