ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a map of gestalt therapy’s fundamental concepts and methodologies, including field theory, phenomenology, the constructivist approach to perception, creative adjustments, fixed gestalts, fixed relational gestalts, awareness, and contact. Figure formation, the cycle of experience and boundary disturbances are explored. Martin Buber’s concepts of Dialogue and I–Thou/I–It relations are also covered. Every Person’s Life is Worth a Novel is gestalt therapy’s appreciation of each person’s life story. The paradoxical theory of change is considered, together with a discussion of Arnold Beisser, MD, who originally developed the concept.
