“The paradox is that, while a concern with past and future is obviously central to psychological functioning, to behave as though one were indeed in the past or future, as many do, pollutes the lively possibilities of existence.”
BAGI therapists are influenced by a wide range of therapeutic influences, modalities and ways of working. While each of our members works differently and has their unique and individual style, our foundation, however, is Gestalt therapy.
What is gestalt?
Gestalt Therapy could be viewed as one of the very first holistic styles of therapy. The German word “Gestalt” translates to English as form, shape or figure. Gestalt Therapy refers to the concept of wholeness (of a form) and implies that the whole is much more than the sum of its parts. Just like each of us is much more than the individual parts of our personality.
Gestalt therapy can help clients become aware of what they are doing, how they are doing it and how they can effect change in their lives, while simultaneously learning to accept and value themselves as they are.
A Gestalt Therapist might focus more on the process of therapy rather than on its content (although content is not ignored). What the client directly perceives, feels and experiences, is considered more relevant than explanations and interpretations.
What is gestalt therapy like?
A typical session of Gestalt Therapy will often focus on a person’s moment to moment awareness of her thoughts, physical sensations, feelings, and fantasies. The therapist’s job is not to explain or interpret, but to lovingly accompany their clients on this journey and to reflect what she notices. Sessions are often very active and might invite clients to become directly involved in activities, experiments and movements all designed to increase self-awareness.
By focusing on self-awareness in the here and now, a client will often form new insights into their behavior and they can engage in lasting change and healing.