- Gestalt therapy -
Gestalt therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on self-awareness and the present. This therapy was conceived by the neuropsychiatrist and psychoanalyst Fritz Perls with his wife Laura Posner.
The word “gestalt” comes from German and means “form” or “structure,” and expresses the idea that the whole is more than the sum of its parts. This therapy helps people understand how their thoughts, feelings, emotions and actions are related, which can greatly influence their daily lives.
This understanding will improve your ability to solve your problems, meet your needs, and make better decisions.
For this, gestalt therapy recognizes the connection between the past and the present, the acceptance of uncertainty, the potential for growth, the search for authenticity, respect for the individuality of the person, the notion of one’s limits and the recognition of the interdependence between the person and the environment.
Principles of the gestalt therapy
Self-awareness
Self-awareness is an essential part of Gestalt therapy. This means that you must be aware of your thoughts, feelings and actions. By having self-awareness, you will be able to better understand your own behaviors and make healthy decisions, listening to your own truth and acting accordingly so that you know how to act more aligned with yourself.
The "Here and Now"
One of the main concepts of Gestalt therapy is “here and now”. This philosophy encourages people to focus on the current moment, rather than being dragged down by the past or anticipating the future. Through the “here and now” approach, you will be able to recognize your current thoughts, feelings, and actions. This will allow you to live in the moment, without worrying about the past or the future, and gain greater self-awareness. In this way you will obtain useful tools to achieve a greater understanding of yourself, as well as to learn to manage problems and face life in a healthier way.
These tools can include relaxation exercises, visualization, meditation, writing and reflection, with the aim of promoting greater awareness regarding your thoughts, emotions, reactions and behaviors.
Personal responsibility
Personal responsibility refers to the idea that people are responsible for their actions and their lives. This responsibility implies that you take the initiative to live life in the best way possible in the circumstances around you. Taking responsibility for your own actions and life will allow you to develop a sense of control over your future, which will help you make informed, responsible and healthy decisions. You will be able to cultivate a sense of direction in life, allowing them to orient you based on your own values and perceptions.