ABSTRACT
This chapter explores three core principles that guide and inform Gestalt coaching practice. Firstly, begin with what people are doing well. Interventions should be firmly grounded in the recognition of strengths before moving to less-developed competencies. Secondly, see everyone and don’t pick favourites. When you’re working with groups and teams it’s usually the case that we see and connect with some individuals more than others, and the consequence can be that some go unnoticed. Thirdly, look out for patterns in individuals and relationships. Sometimes, individual habits and behavioural patterns emerge quickly and become visible to the observant practitioner. Styles of relating – such as always going first or last in a group check-in, excessive banter or deflective behaviours, overt attention seeking, over- or under-talking, playing expert, or name-dropping – get noticed not only by the coach, but by others too.
