Psychosynthesis Therapy: Towards Realising Fullest Potential

 

“Psychosynthesis is interested in the whole building. We try to build an elevator which will allow a person access to every level of his personality. After all, a building with only a basement is very limited. We want to open up the terrace where you can sun-bathe or look at the stars. Our concern is the synthesis of all areas of the personality. That means psychosynthesis is holistic, global and inclusive. It is not against psychoanalysis or even behavior modification but it insists that the needs for meaning, for higher values, for a spiritual life, are as real as biological or social needs. We deny that there are any isolated human problems.”

- Roberto Assagioli

 

Psychosynthesis therapy is a humanistic and integrative approach to psychotherapy. Pioneering Italian psychiatrist Roberto Assagioli founded it in the early 20th century. Assagioli’s work sought to go beyond the limitations of traditional psychoanalysis, incorporating elements from various psychological, philosophical, and spiritual traditions. Psychosynthesis counselling emphasizes the integration of all aspects of the human psyche. Towards realization of a person’s fullest potential and self-actualization, inclusion of the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual are essential.

The Core Concepts of Psychosynthesis

    1. The Self and the Higher Self: The concept of the "Self," which is understood as the core essence of a person, is central to psychosynthesis. Assagioli distinguished between the personal self (or ego) and the Higher Self, which represents a deeper, more transcendent aspect of a person. The goal of therapy is to help individuals connect with and express this higher dimension of themselves, leading to a sense of purpose, meaning, and fulfillment.
    2. Integration of the Personality: Assagioli believed that the psyche consists of many subpersonalities or different aspects of the self. These can include emotional, intellectual, and instinctual parts, often in conflict with each other. Psychosynthesis counselling helps individuals become aware of these subpersonalities. By understanding their existence and their roles, we can begin to integrate them into a harmonious and functional whole.
    3. Will and Personal Development: Assagioli placed significant emphasis on the development of the will as a central aspect of personal growth. Will is not merely the capacity to act but also the ability to direct one's life purposefully, for instance. Likewise, making choices in alignment with one’s higher values and aspirations allows individuals to move from mere reaction to conscious, intentional action.
    4. Transpersonal Dimension: Assagioli expanded on the idea of self-actualization to include a transpersonal dimension—spirituality or the search for a deeper connection with the universe, a higher power, or one's sense of purpose in life. Psychosynthesis therapy is holistic, acknowledging both the material and spiritual aspects of the human experience.

 

Psychosynthesis Therapy and the egg diagram of Self

The Psychosynthesis 'egg' diagram of Self

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Process of Psychosynthesis Therapy

The therapeutic process in psychosynthesis is dynamic and evolving. Because it begins with an exploration of the individual’s current emotional and mental states, it helps them gain insight into internal conflicts, unconscious patterns, and life situations. The therapist assists the client in identifying various subpersonalities, helping them distinguish between the various voices or parts within themselves that may be creating confusion or inner conflict.

Through a process of recognising these subpersonalities, Psychosynthesis involves developing a greater awareness of the higher, unifying Self. For instance, we can become aware of and utilise the unchanging 'observer' within. Creative techniques like guided imagery, meditation, visualization, and active imagination exist to help connect with this deeper self. Through the integration of subpersonalities, along with the development of the will, a person achieves greater psychological balance and a sense of unity.

 

Pychosynthesis Therapy founded by Roberto Assagioli. Photo and quote

Roberto Assagioli: Founder of Psychosynthesis

Roberto Assagioli (1888–1974) was a pioneering Italian psychiatrist whose work in psychosynthesis was groundbreaking in its inclusivity of spiritual dimensions and its focus on personal development beyond pathology. Trained as a medical doctor and psychiatrist, he also studied under Sigmund Freud. However, whilst initially incorporating insights from psychoanalysis into his own work, he later emerged dissatisfied with its limitations. He found its outlook too reductionist and restrictive, emphasising the unconscious mind as primarily a source of conflict and pathology. The human psyche he passionately believed, could not be understood solely through its conflicts and repressed desires. Therefore, with his broad. life-affirming philosophy, Assagioli explored psyche in terms of its potential for growth, creativity, and spiritual insight.

Moreover, individuals are capable of self-transcendence, capable of achieving a higher state of consciousness and functioning. Assagioli believed this was central to psychological health. His work in psychosynthesis, thus blends penetrating psychological insight with spiritual development. In addition, it continues to influence contemporary psychotherapy, particularly in the areas of human potential, transpersonal psychology, and integrative healing. Psychosynthesis thus embraces collective unconscious and superconscious elements as important aspects in counselling when considering the individual.

 

Becoming a 'Self' with Counselling

Also central to understanding one's true identity, is the concept of Self, the "inner unity and center of the personality" (Assagioli). Through the exploration of this deeper, more authentic Self individuals can transcend their limited, ego-driven identities. Counselling provides a safe arena for hidden aspects of personality to be brought into awareness, integrated, to become more whole.

Being stuck in repetitive patterns of unwanted behaviour and outcomes, is often a sign of over-identification with our partial aspects. Self is not a fixed entity, but rather a dynamic process that emerges through self-awareness, alignment with inner values, and connection to higher spiritual dimensions. Thus, there is choice, agency and always the potential for change in each situation.

Disidentification is a key psychological tool in Psychosynthesis counselling. Assagioli emphasized that individuals often identify too strongly with various aspects of their personality—such as thoughts, emotions, or roles—leading to a fragmented sense of self. Disidentification, therefore, involves stepping back from these aspects to observe them without attachment. This can be a creative, enjoyable process of discovery too. Thus, Assagioli asserts, “The process of disidentification helps to release the person from false and limiting identifications, bringing freedom and a deeper sense of inner wholeness”. By disidentifying with transient states and conditions, we can access a more authentic sense of self and experience a deeper, spiritual awareness.

 

Spirit and the Transpersonal in Psychosynthesis

Counselling in Psychosynthesis incorporates the human spirit, the transpersonal or higher dimensions of consciousness that transcend the individual ego. Moreover, Assagioli viewed the spirit as the source of inner guidance, creativity, and transformation. He stated, “The spirit is the center of synthesis, the transcendent unity in the individual”. Therefore, bringing this spiritual dimension into therapy allows individuals to connect with a sense of purpose and meaning beyond personal desires, tapping into the collective consciousness and universal energies.

Thus, we are so much more than our personal history; we need not be defined by it. Rather, there is hope. Soul, our authenic purpose or potential is always 'speaking' through our presenting issues, calling 'Self' to awaken and realise change.  Furthermore, working towards synthesis within ourselves, we begin to experience more fully connection with others, the wider world and the cosmos.

The transpersonal aspect of psychosynthesis points to the realm of experience that extends beyond personal psychology. It emphasises connection to the collective, divine, or universal consciousness. This has valuable implications for seeing our sometimes all too human existence in context. Thus, we can thrive even as we are, more than simply exist. Assagioli’s work calls for an integration of these higher dimensions into daily life, recognizing that true self-realization occurs not just through personal development, but through spiritual awakening and service to others.

Further Reading:

Assagioli, R. (2007) The Act of Will. Amhurst. Synthesis Center Press. (Original Work Published 1973)

Firman, J and Gila, A. (1997) The Primal Wound. USA. State University of New York Press.

Firman, J and Gila, A. (2002) Psychosynthesis A Psychology of the Spirit. USA. State University of New York Press.

Sorensen, K. (2023) Conflict, Crises and Synthesis - Introduction. Available at: https://kennethsorensen.dk/en/conflict-crises-and-synthesis-introduction/

Whitmore, D. (2000) Psychosynthesis Counselling in Action. Second Edition. London. Sage Publishing.

 

To begin Psychosynthesis counselling, or to find out more, please don't hesitate to contact Alex at Alex Golding Therapy

© 2025 Alex Golding Therapy