What is Gestalt Therapy? (ENG)

Gestalt therapy is a type of psychotherapy that emphasises personal responsibility and focuses on the present moment, rather than reflecting on the past experiences. Gestalt therapy was developed by Fritz Perls in the 1940s, this approach is based on the idea that people are best understood when viewed as a whole, rather than through separate parts of their lives or behaviours. 

Core Principles of Gestalt Therapy

1. Here and Now: 

One of the key concepts in Gestalt therapy is the focus on the "here and now." This means that instead of spending too much time analysing past experiences or worrying about the future, therapy sessions are centred around what is happening in the present moment. This helps become more aware of current feelings and thoughts (Yontef & Jacobs, 2014).

2. Personal Responsibility: 

Gestalt therapy encourages people to take responsibility for their own lives and experiences. This doesn't mean blaming oneself for everything that happens, but rather recognizing one's role in the ongoing dynamics of their life. This empowerment can lead to significant personal growth and self-awareness (Clarkson, 2014).

3. Awareness: 

Increasing self-awareness is a primary goal in Gestalt therapy. This involves becoming aware of thoughts, emotions, and actions, and understanding how these affect interactions with the world. Awareness is seen as the first step towards change (Perls, Hefferline, & Goodman, 1951).

Techniques Used in Gestalt Therapy

1. Experiments: 

These are activities conducted during therapy sessions that help clients explore their emotions and behaviours. They can include role-playing, reenacting scenes from one's life, or using creative arts to express feelings (Brownell, 2010).

2. Dialogue: 

A common technique is the "empty chair" exercise, where clients engage in a dialogue with different parts of themselves or significant people in their lives. This helps in resolving internal conflicts and gaining new perspectives (Perls, Hefferline, & Goodman, 1951).

3. Body Awareness:

Gestalt therapy often includes an emphasis on physical sensations and how they relate to emotions. Clients are encouraged to notice their body language and physical responses as part of their overall awareness (Clarkson, 2014).

Benefits of Gestalt Therapy

Gestalt therapy can be particularly effective for people dealing with anxiety, depression, and various emotional challenges. By focusing on the present and encouraging self-awareness, it helps people gain insights into their behaviours and emotions, leading to more meaningful and fulfilling lives.

In conclusion, Gestalt therapy is a holistic and experiential approach that empowers individuals to live more fully in the present and take responsibility for their own experiences. If you're looking for a therapy that emphasises self-awareness and personal growth, Gestalt therapy might be a good fit for you.

References

Brownell, P. (2010). Gestalt therapy: A guide to contemporary practice. Springer Publishing Company.

Clarkson, P. (2014). Gestalt counseling in action. Sage.

Perls, F., Hefferline, R., & Goodman, P. (1951). Gestalt therapy: Excitement and growth in the human personality. Julian Press.

Yontef, G., & Jacobs, L. (2014). Gestalt therapy. In Corsini, R.J. & Wedding, D. (Eds.), Current psychotherapies (pp. 328-365). Cengage Learning