Gestalt Psychotherapy
“I do my thing and you do your thing. I am not in this world to live up to your expectations, and you are not in this world to live up to mine. You are you, and I am I. And if by chance we find each other, it’s beautiful”.
Fritz Perls
Gestalt psychotherapy emphasizes what it calls “organismic holism,” the importance of being aware of the here and now and accepting responsibility for yourself. Against the backdrop of the 1930’s zeitgeist in Europe, in Berlin, Fritz Perls became interested in some of the prevailing philosophical questions, particularly those concerning existence, what it is to be human, of consciousness and how we experience the world around us. Gestalt means broadly, whole, pattern or form. It carries the sense that meaning cannot be found from breaking things down into parts but rather from appreciation of the whole. It regards the individual as a totality of mind, body, emotions and spirit who experiences reality in a way unique to themselves. Gestalt psychotherapists work with clients to help them focus on self-awareness: on what is happening from one moment to the next or in the Here and Now. Increased awareness and understanding of the present, of one’s immediate thoughts, feelings and behaviour, and of patterns of relating can bring about powerful change and new perspectives. Gestalt is a positive force for change in that it can empower people to live life to the full by improving their communication, helping them to manage conflict and developing their creativity.
Gestalt therapy often includes acting out scenarios and dream recall, and is effective in treating issues such as anxiety, stress, addiction, tension and depression.