What is Gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is a humanistic therapeutic approach that centers on a fundamentally kind and compassionate attitude toward our humanity. It is based on the assumption that every person possesses the potential for personal growth and self-actualization and is the expert on their own life. The therapist therefore acts more as a companion, creating an empathetic and trusting environment in which the client’s individual life situation takes center stage. The conscious focus is on experiencing the present moment and recognizing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to gain new insights and foster inner growth. Through empathy, unconditional appreciation, authenticity, and with the help of experiential approaches, the therapist supports the client in exploring themselves, experiencing life consciously, and finding their own solutions to personal challenges.

The term “Gestalt” originates from Gestalt psychology and describes how people structure their experiences into meaningful units. A Gestalt that comes to the foreground and is perceived against a background consists both of the physical form and how it is embedded in the environment, and also encompasses the personal context and reciprocal relationships.

When a Gestalt remains unresolved due to unprocessed conflicts or unmet needs—when it remains “unfinished business”—this can prevent current and significant emotional states such as grief, anger, or despair from coming into consciousness and thus taking center stage. The goal of therapy is therefore to work through unresolved issues—to close figures—so that they no longer unconsciously influence present-day experiences.

Gestalt therapy is a path to greater clarity, authenticity, and inner growth. Exploring these issues together helps you take more responsibility for your own life and develop your uniqueness.

The effectiveness of Gestalt therapy has been demonstrated by numerous scientific studies. The method is considered an established therapeutic approach and is recognized in many countries.