Recently, I discussed the concept of Gestalt therapy with my psychologist. Gestalt therapy, a humanistic psychological treatment method, emphasizes an individual's awareness of their current psychological and physiological needs and personal responsibility. This therapy was founded by Frederick Perls in the 1940s, combining ideas from existentialism, phenomenology, and Gestalt psychology.
In Gestalt therapy, we explore and understand interpersonal issues related to intimate relationships through role-playing, especially those involving parent-child relationships. In this process, patients have the opportunity to converse with their past selves and their past parents, promoting a re-understanding of past events and emotional release.
We can liken the psychological functioning of adults to a dam. As one psychologically matures, this dam is continuously strengthened, helping us better cope with setbacks and impacts in life. Gestalt therapy is an important tool for reinforcing this psychological dam.
In childhood, we may have been free of life's worries. But as we grow, we begin to recognize the imperfections of life and lose some unrealistic fantasies, which might lead to feelings of powerlessness and depression. However, over time, we learn to accept reality and recognize that life takes various forms. As psychologists say, pain is inevitable, but it can be transcended.
Most importantly, it is about accepting oneself: life comes in various shapes. As we grow, we learn to accept all aspects of ourselves, in all our different shapes.