What to Expect in a Gestalt Therapy Session?

Emphasis on the Present Moment:
Gestalt therapy places a strong emphasis on the "here and now." Sessions often focus on current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors rather than delving extensively into past events.

Exploration of Thoughts and Feelings:
The therapist will encourage you to explore and express your thoughts, feelings, and sensations as they arise during the session. This may involve discussing current concerns, conflicts, or challenges.

Holistic Approach:
Gestalt therapists view individuals as holistic beings, considering the interconnection of mind, body, and emotions. The goal is to help you develop awareness and integration of all aspects of your experience.

Dialogue and Interaction:
Therapists engage in a genuine and interactive dialogue with clients. This may involve the use of open-ended questions, reflections, and clarifications to deepen your understanding of your experience.

Experiential Techniques & Experimentation:
Gestalt therapy often incorporates experiential techniques to help you gain insights and integrate your experiences. This might include role-playing, guided imagery, and empty-chair work, art therapy etc. It also involves trying out new behaviors or ways of thinking in the session that can lead to increased self-awareness and insights.

Focus on Responsibility:
Gestalt therapists encourage personal responsibility and self-awareness. You may be prompted to explore how you contribute to your own challenges and how you can take responsibility for your choices.

Attention to Body Sensations:
Gestalt therapy acknowledges the importance of bodily sensations in understanding emotions and experiences. Therapists may guide you to pay attention to physical sensations and explore their connection to your emotional state.

Integration of Polarities:
The therapist may help you explore and integrate conflicting aspects of yourself or unresolved issues. This involves recognizing and accepting different parts of your identity or experiences.

Closure and Reflection:
Sessions typically end with a reflection on the work done during the session. Gestalt therapists may explore what insights were gained and discuss how you can apply these insights to your life outside of therapy.

It's important to note that each therapy session is unique and tailored to the individual's needs. The specific techniques and approaches used by a Gestalt therapist may vary based on the therapist's style and the client's preferences. The therapeutic relationship is also central to the process, as the therapist and client work together to explore and understand the client's experiences. 

Prepared by Eglė Adamonytė, Gestalt Practitioner and Therapeutic Coach, Mindfulness teacher