What happens in a session?

Sessions typically involve guided self-inquiry, mindfulness practices, and reflective dialogue. You'll explore your authentic self through meditation, journaling, visualization exercises, and discussions about your values, desires, and life experiences. The practitioner guides you through exercises designed to increase self-awareness and help you recognize the difference between your true self and conditioned responses.

How many sessions are needed?

The number of sessions varies greatly depending on your goals and how deeply you wish to explore. Some people benefit from 6-10 sessions for basic self-discovery, while others engage in ongoing work over months or years. Many practitioners recommend starting with a series of 8-12 sessions to establish foundational practices and see meaningful progress.

Is this different from therapy or counseling?

While there may be some overlap, this practice focuses specifically on self-discovery and authenticity rather than treating mental health conditions. It's more exploratory and growth-oriented than problem-focused therapy. However, if mental health issues arise, practitioners should refer you to qualified therapists.

What if I don't like what I discover about myself?

Self-discovery can sometimes reveal aspects of ourselves we've avoided facing. Good practitioners will help you approach these discoveries with compassion and support you in processing difficult emotions. The goal is acceptance and integration, not judgment. This process often leads to greater self-compassion over time.

What is meant by the true self and how does connecting to it differ from positive thinking?

The true self — variously called the higher self, authentic self, or essential nature depending on the framework — refers to a layer of identity beneath the conditioned personality: beneath the learned fears, adopted roles, and defensive patterns accumulated through life. Connecting to the true self is not the same as positive thinking (which operates at the level of conscious cognition) — it is more akin to dropping beneath the surface noise of the mind into a quieter, more stable ground of being. Practices include meditation, somatic awareness, inner child work, and contemplative inquiry. Psychologically, this work overlaps with Carl Rogers' concept of the fully functioning person and Maslow's self-actualisation.

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Connecting to the True Self

Connecting to the True Self is a metaphysical practice focused on self-discovery and authentic identity exploration through reflection, m...

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Reviewed by Internal Medical Editorial Team · Integrative Health Content Review

Quick answer

Connecting to the True Self is a metaphysical practice that involves self-discovery and authentic identity exploration through techniques such as reflection, mindfulness, and self-acceptance. It is commonly used for personal development, finding life purpose, and building self-confidence, particularly for individuals experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, or feelings of disconnection. Research on this specific practice is limited, although its underlying principles are rooted in established philosophical and spiritual traditions.

What Connecting to the True Self is commonly used for

Conditions

Low Self-Esteem Life Transitions Anxiety Relationship Difficulties

Connecting to the True Self

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Origin & History

How It Works

What to Expect in a Session

References

Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is This For?

Best for

Not ideal for

Commonly used for

Life Transitions

Anxiety

Relationship Difficulties

Low Self-Esteem

Symptoms practitioners commonly work with