Special Features

In Gestalt, the particular symptom or problem is often formulated as a concrete object or sensation (name, material, body sensation, a person or a painting). This way the client has something concrete to start working with. The therapist encourages the client into contact with their body and feelings.

The four Gestalt cornerstones are: contact, awareness, here-and-now and responsibility. The therapy seeks to expand the individual’s awareness of their behavioural patterns, defense mechanisms, body, and ways of being in contact. Self awareness gives the client an opportunity to choose, whether to continue like before or make a change.

Gestalt therapy is a form of psychotherapy. Training in the Gestalt Institute of Scandinavia (GIS-International) takes four years.

Use of the occupational title “psychotherapist” is restricted and protected by the Finnish law. Graduated Gestalt therapists can apply for the right to practice as a licenced or authorised professional and the use of this title from The National Authority for Medicolegal Affairs (TEO). Some of the therapists authorised by TEO are also qualified by Kela.