Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explains about working in a gestalt therapeutic or coaching fashion with relationships. It explores the various theoretical constructs and processes that are relevant to couples work. The book describes the description of contemporary gestalt therapy theory, which is a basic orientation to gestalt process that is evident in both therapy and coaching. It also explores more specific orientation to gestalt-based coaching. The book then focuses on three subjects important to gestalt therapy and coaching: contacting, the satisfaction of interest, and positive psychology. It then addresses several important collateral issues such as embodiment, extended cognition, and hermeneutic phenomenology, and it contextualizes these subjects in couples work. The book also considers research and the assimilation of coaching into therapy and psychology into coaching.