Gestalt therapy was founded and developed by the 'New York Group' of psychoanalysts in the early fifties. Dr. Frederick (Fritz) Perls was the dynamic, charismatic co-founder of Gestalt Therapy, in 1951, along with, Paul Goodman, Ralph Hefferline & Laura Perls. However, fundamentally Gestalt therapy has been developed out of decades of experience & training in psychoanalysis, Gestalt psychology, existentialism, phenomenology and holism.

Gestalt therapy is based upon a field-oriented framework and methodology that appreciates the individual in their entirety. From this holistic perspective, the Gestalt therapist understands the interconnected nature between how the individual makes contact with the environment, and the unique field of experience (past, present and future) that organises them in that interaction.

Fundamentally, the aim of Gestalt Therapy is to heighten awareness 'phenomenologically' (the immediate experience). This principle in and of itself is profound in promoting healing and growth. The Gestalt therapist essentially provides a space free of judgment or antidote, and respectfully allows 'what is' to be explored and experienced more completely. Furthermore, the therapist trusts the process of the client to guide the work, relinquishing any agenda to where the session should go. Gestalt therapy encourages individuals to experience themselves and life more fully, in a supportive, empowering, and growthful way.

Experimentation is another core principle in Gestalt therapy, where new ways of relating and living are explored in the 'here and now' experience. It is a therapy that is 'lived' by the client in the present moment through 'creative experimentation'; to explore, heighten awareness, and try out new ways of authentic relating. Hence, Gestalt is predominantly 'experiential' rather than a 'talking about' therapy. Creative experimentation in Gestalt therapy is considered a dynamic and effective tool for awareness, exploration and integration.

In Gestalt Therapy the therapist enters into a relationship with the client that is based on respect and equality (I-Thou relationship). The client is considered 'the expert' on themselves - rather than therapist, hence the innate wisdom of the client is encouraged and brought to the foreground. The experience of the Gestalt therapist in relationship to the client is present and available, which in turn, becomes a rich resource in the healing process. This relational approach to therapy creates the way for an authentic and meaningful meeting between the client and therapist, and a fertile ground from which to grow and explore.

Gestalt Therapy regards the personal development of trainees as quintessential to the practical application of its theory. This principle is evident in all reputable Gestalt training programs (GANZ), placing personal development as a central importance within their curriculums. Gestalt therapy is quite unique in this respect; with the therapist having to 'walk the talk' of self-awareness and authenticity.

In summary, Gestalt Therapy is an holistic, awareness-centred, relational, and experiential therapy that has much to offer, not only the client, but also the therapist. It is a psychotherapy that has stood the test of time, having numerous institutes and training centres across the world. It has evolved over fifty years into a therapy that is deeply respectful, holistically defined, and dynamic in its promotion of self-awareness and growth.