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A Gestalt (Origin: German) is perhaps best described as a form or pattern The main idea of Gestalt therapy is the extension of awareness, when all current senses and behaviours merge influencing the interconnection of the individual and his surroundings In order to understand an event, or something or someone, you must consider the entire situation and the components which go to create that particular form at that point in time. When we observe a geometric figure - for example, a square we do not see it as four lines and four angles but as a single object. The object in question, formed by all of its component parts is perceived as a whole in which the final result is something different from the sum of its parts. Gestalt psychology is thus a holistic field of study, i.e. based on the idea that the properties of a system cannot be explained exclusively by means of its components alone, but these should be analysed in their entirety. This conception is applied to human beings, thereby producing a vision of the individual as a whole, greater and more complex than the parts with which he/she is composed, which include the body, mind, thought, feelings, the imagination and movement. A person can thus be viewed as a being formed by the integrated functioning in time and space of the various components and aspects of the whole.

The meaning of the Gestalt prayer is for the individual to live in harmony according to their own needs and what feels right instead of looking to outside influences to determine the individual's needs. The statement also emphasizes the fact that when we are fulfilled then we are better equipped to help others to do the same which creates stronger relationships. Although critics in opposition believe that relationships must be developed through hard work, those who believe in Gestalt feel that relationships should never be based on obligation or as a result of the expectations of others.

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This variation is sometimes called "East Coast" Gestalt Used all experiences from theatre

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Failing to put aside unfinished business is the difficulty Needs are brought to the fore and then placed in the background when a new need will come to the fore Past is no more, future does not exist. Only the now exists Neurosis occurs when one does not take care of ones self fully or depend on others

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Anxiety, fear can result from neurosis This is not Freuds death instinct but the existentialists vertigo of possibility implosion Release of energy in action and emotion as the client makes his/her own authentic choice of path. The task of the therapist is to witness, acknowledge and engage with this choosing explosion