Exploring Gestalt Psychotherapy: Understanding Awareness, Self, and Contact

• Counselling
• Higher Education (degree)

Exploring Gestalt Psychotherapy: Understanding Awareness, Self, and Contact

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to understand the history and theoretical concepts of Gestalt Psychotherapy, including awareness, self, interruptions to contact, and the rules of phenomenological enquiry.

What do you already know about Gestalt Psychotherapy?

History of Gestalt Psychotherapy

Gestalt Psychotherapy was developed in the 1940s by Fritz Perls and others. It emphasizes the importance of the present moment and the holistic nature of human experience.

Definition of Awareness

Awareness is a key concept in Gestalt Psychotherapy, focusing on being fully present in the moment and engaging with one's thoughts, feelings, and environment.

Theory of Self

The theory of self in Gestalt Psychotherapy emphasizes the integration of different aspects of the self, including thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Cycle of Experience

The cycle of experience refers to the natural flow of awareness, action, and contact with the environment, which is a central concept in Gestalt Psychotherapy.

Interruptions to Contact

Interruptions to contact are barriers that hinder the natural flow of experience and can lead to psychological distress. These interruptions can be internal or external.

Fixed Gestalts

Fixed gestalts are patterns of behavior, thoughts, or emotions that become rigid and hinder personal growth and self-awareness.

Closure

Closure refers to the completion of the cycle of experience, allowing for a sense of resolution and integration of the learning process.

Rules of Phenomenological Enquiry

The rules of phenomenological enquiry guide the psychotherapy relationship, emphasizing authentic presence, suspending judgments, and exploring subjective experiences.

Interactive Activity: Case Study Analysis

Students will analyze a case study applying the theoretical concepts of Gestalt Psychotherapy, focusing on awareness, interruptions to contact, and closure.

Video Clip: Therapeutic Interaction

Students will watch a video clip depicting a therapeutic interaction based on Gestalt Psychotherapy principles, highlighting the role of awareness, contact, and closure.

Group Discussion: Personal Reflection

Students will engage in a group discussion to reflect on their own experiences of awareness, interruptions to contact, and closure, drawing connections to Gestalt Psychotherapy.

Application Exercise: Mindfulness Practice

Students will participate in a guided mindfulness practice to enhance their awareness and experience the principles of Gestalt Psychotherapy firsthand.

Quiz: Conceptual Understanding

Students will complete a quiz to assess their understanding of the key concepts covered in the lesson, including awareness, interruptions to contact, and closure.

Case Study Presentation

Selected students will present their analysis of the case study, demonstrating their application of Gestalt Psychotherapy concepts in a real-life scenario.

Reflective Journaling

Students will engage in reflective journaling, documenting their personal insights and connections to the concepts of awareness, interruptions to contact, and closure.

Group Activity: Role-Play

Students will participate in role-play scenarios, applying the rules of phenomenological enquiry and practicing therapeutic interactions based on Gestalt principles.

Teacher-Guided Discussion

The teacher will lead a comprehensive discussion, revisiting key concepts and addressing any remaining questions or areas of confusion.

Group Reflection and Feedback

Students will engage in a group reflection, sharing their feedback on the lesson and identifying the most impactful insights gained.

Conclusion and Next Steps

Summarize the key takeaways from the lesson and encourage students to consider how they can apply the principles of Gestalt Psychotherapy in their personal and professional lives.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.