My Approach
Gestalt approach has shown me that real change is only possible when we accept ourselves as we are and live more fully in the present moment.
As a counsellor, I embrace the Gestalt approach. Though not frequently mentioned in popular culture, Gestalt therapy is a profound and effective psychotherapy method that takes a holistic view of human experience.
Field theory plays a crucial role in my work with clients. This theory suggests that no experience can be separated from its context. Every issue a client brings—whether related to the past or future—exists and has value in the present moment.
When discussing past events, I focus on their present impact through questions like "How is this event affecting you right now?" or "What are you feeling as you remember this?" This connects with Gestalt's fundamental principle of "here and now," as real change begins only when we focus on the present moment.
Let me give you a simple example from daily life: As you read this text, pay attention to your body. Are you slouching? Is there tension in your shoulders or neck? When you direct these questions to yourself, you've probably already started unconsciously adjusting your posture. This is a simple but effective example of Gestalt's "awareness" principle.
The paradoxical theory of change forms the foundation of my therapeutic approach. Real change begins not by trying to become who we want to be, but by fully accepting who we are. Therefore, in therapy, we don't aim to eliminate "negative" emotions. From birth, we experience the full spectrum of emotions—sadness, fear, disgust, happiness. An emotion can only exist with its opposite; we couldn't know day without experiencing night, or recognize happiness without understanding pain. Humans are whole with both their pain and joy, and the path to well-being passes through developing flexibility to stay with difficult emotions.
"I establish a genuine, honest, and equal relationship with my clients. In this 'I-thou' relationship, I act as a guide who explores life's challenges together with clients."
Another concept I value in therapy is "wholeness." Our emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations are parts of an integrated whole. In the therapeutic process, I address all these dimensions together. For instance, when exploring an emotion, we also examine its bodily effects, the thoughts it triggers, and its behavioral manifestations.
I establish a genuine, honest, and equal relationship with my clients. In this "I-Thou" relationship, I act as a guide who explores life's challenges together with clients. I see the key to change in recognizing and accepting the present moment and taking responsibility for our emotions and behaviors. This process of awareness and responsibility is the starting point of transformation.
In our sessions, I use awareness exercises and creative techniques to help you discover your potential and create the change you want in your life. The Gestalt approach has shown me that real change is only possible when we accept ourselves as we are and live more fully in the present moment.