Gestalt

Gestalt therapy is a humanistic therapy technique that focuses on developing an awareness of emotions and behaviours in the present. It was developed in the late 1940s by Fritz Perls and is guided by the theory principle that every individual is a whole (mind, body and spirit). That we are intricately linked to and influenced by our surrounding environments and are best understood in relation to our current situation as we experience it.

Fundamentally, Gestalt therapy works by encouraging clients to feel what is truly being experienced rather than an interpretation of the events. Gestalt therapy explores thoughts, feelings, behaviours, beliefs and values to help develop greater self-awareness. By becoming more aware of how we think, feel and act in the present moment, we are better able to recognise and change negative thought patterns and behaviours.

Focusing on experience helps promote a non-judgemental self-awareness that gives clients the opportunity to identify choices, patterns of behaviour and obstacles that are impacting their health and well-being, and preventing them from reaching their full potential.