Gestalt therapy is a powerful, experiential form of psychotherapy that focuses on personal responsibility, present-moment awareness, and authentic relationships. Rather than analyzing the past, it helps you understand how you experience life right now.
Core Principles
Here and Now
Focus on present-moment awareness rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.
Personal Responsibility
Recognize your role in creating your own experience and take ownership of your choices.
Awareness
Develop deeper self-awareness of your thoughts, feelings, body sensations, and behavior patterns.
Authentic Contact
Build genuine, honest relationships with yourself and others through authentic expression.
How Does It Work?
In Gestalt therapy, the relationship between therapist and client is collaborative and egalitarian. The therapist doesn't interpret your experiences or tell you what's "wrong" with you. Instead, they help you explore your own awareness and discover your own insights.
Through dialogue, experiments, and creative techniques, you learn to:
- Notice patterns in your thinking, feeling, and behavior
- Identify and release old habits that no longer serve you
- Take responsibility for your choices and actions
- Express yourself more fully and authentically
- Develop healthier relationships
- Live more fully in the present moment
What Makes Gestalt Therapy Different?
Experiential, Not Just Talk
Rather than just talking about your problems, you actively explore them through experiments and exercises that bring them to life in the present moment.
Focus on "How" Rather Than "Why"
Instead of endlessly analyzing why something happened, Gestalt therapy helps you understand how you create and maintain your current experience.
Holistic Approach
Gestalt therapy considers you as a whole person - body, mind, emotions, and spirit - within your environment and relationships.
Creative and Flexible
Sessions can include dialogue, role-play, art, movement, and other creative techniques tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
What Can Gestalt Therapy Help With?
"The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."
A Brief History
Gestalt therapy was developed in the 1940s by Fritz Perls, Laura Perls, and Paul Goodman. It emerged from a combination of psychoanalysis, existential philosophy, phenomenology, and Eastern practices like Zen Buddhism.
The word "Gestalt" is German and roughly translates to "whole" or "form." It reflects the therapy's holistic approach - understanding you as a complete, integrated being rather than a collection of separate parts.
Since its inception, Gestalt therapy has evolved and spread worldwide, influencing many other therapeutic approaches and remaining one of the most innovative and effective forms of psychotherapy.
Ready to Experience Gestalt Therapy?
Schedule a session and begin your journey toward greater awareness, authenticity, and growth.