Gestalt Group Therapy

Gestalt group therapy is an application of Gestalt therapy within a group context. Both Gestalt therapy [Page 453]and Gestalt group therapy are based on the phenomenological principles of holism and field theory. Although the primary application of Gestalt therapy has been in individual counseling and therapy, the use of the group as a central milieu for incorporating Gestalt therapy concepts, techniques, and processes, including a focus on interpersonal relations and group processes, has increased over the years. In all applications, a basic assumption of Gestalt work is that individuals must be understood and approached in relation to their environment. Moreover, the influence of Gestalt theory, processes, and techniques on other forms of group work, such as person-centered and psychoeducational groups, is extensive.