What is Gestalt psychotherapy?

Gestalt psychotherapy is a method where the therapist allows the patient inner awareness of his or her struggles and patterns and this insight allows personal growth and change. Novelty emerges as a result of the therapist/patient relationship and in this space the patient can make new choices to change old patterns, heal from past trauma, and become a more aware and complete whole person. Through Gestalt techniques the patient can learn how he or she internalizes messages from childhood that shackle him or herself. Gestalt therapy calls these internalized messages and hurtful past experiences “unfinished business.” Through the therapist/patient relationship, the patient may overcome his or her unfinished business and liberate him or herself from trauma, anxiety, and depression. By casting off the shackles of the past, the patient can heal relationships and create new healthier ones. Gestalt therapy allows the patient to move on from the past, change the present, and plan for a brighter future.