psychosynthesis - a brief description

a brief description

Introduction

In its most basic sense, psychosynthesis is simply a name for the process of growth - the integration of previously separate elements into a more comprehensive unification or synthesis. It believes each of us has an innate drive toward the unfolding of ourselves, and that we can choose to consciously support that process. While it is generally known that we have a responsibility to this end, we have not always known how to go about it. To address this, psychosynthesis provides both theory and practice. It offers a framework that enables a more complete understanding of ourselves, our capacities, and our relationships, as well as skills and techniques, to help us deal with these effectively and safely.

The Self

Unlike most forms of psychotherapy, psychosynthesis recognizes a part of us which is difficult to name. It has been referred to as "higher" or "deeper." In any case it is for us the source of inspiration, guidance, comfort, strength, peace, hope. Psychosynthesis calls this part the "self," and goes on to say that integration, synthesis, or unification of the personality, happens around this self. Since this "self" has two aspects - the personal and the transpersonal, synthesis happens in two stages - first the personal, followed by the transpersonal.

The recognition of the self is essential, for without it, the attempt at wholeness is done at the expense of diversity and individuality. A unity that is achieved through uniformity, is by nature fragile, and is threatened by uniqueness and difference. A unity based on the self, on the other hand, is stable, for it is able to balance the interests of the whole with those of each of the parts.

Empowering and Gentle

One of the strengths of psychosynthesis is that it provides practical methods to recognize and access the "higher" or "deeper" part of ourselves, so that the process of growth happens according to an "inner wisdom." What this also means, is that in accessing this truly empowering part of ourselves, the person's own inner self is not violated or imposed upon. It is allowed to unfold at its own speed, and according to its own pattern. It honours all parts of our being, enabling the working through of blocks that hinder growth, without creating further blocks in the process.

Context

The goal of psychosynthesis is integration and wholeness, and since it is so adaptable, it can be and is being applied to many areas of activity where this goal is sought. Some examples are counselling and therapy, education, medicine and health care, business and management, diplomacy and international relations, religion, and organizational development. For this reason professionals find psychosynthesis, with its understandings, tools, and techniques, valuable in empowering them in their own profession.

Psychosynthesis began around 1910 with the Italian psychiatrist, Roberto Assagioli (1888-1974), a contemporary of both Freud and Jung, and to the present day it continues to evolve. It has much to offer to the world and its potential seems to be limitless. It is a growing movement with centers around the world, including Argentina & Brazil, Australia & New Zealand, Canada, U.S.A. & Mexico, and most of Europe.

Link to a more complete description of psychosynthesis.

URL= http://two.not2.org/psychosynthesis/what/ps1.htm
Last revised: July 11, 1996.