Gestalt Therapy According to Fritz Perls

the mind imposes structure, converting sensations into perceptions

* perception involves creating a whole gestalt from figure and ground
* figure and ground shift depending on biological and psychological needs

disorder is due to a lack of awareness

* awareness in the moment can cure
* most people lack awareness because of unfinished business
* the empty chair, repetition, and exaggeration to increase awareness
* access and express your repressed memories and suppressed emotions
* unfinished business
* and incomplete gestalt will demand attention until it is complete

disorder due to lack of responsibility

* become your authentic self
* experiment with changes, converting thoughts and feelings into actions
* authentic
* confront incongruence between verbal and nonverbal

authentic

* therapy promotes integration of mind, body, and spirit
* integrate the disowned parts of self

style of therapy

* therapist is authentic but indifferent to client’s distress
* therapist frustrates client to mobilize client’s potential
* therapist uses confrontation
* dialogue stays in the here-and-now moment
* experiential, interactive sessions