What is Gestalt Counselling?
The German term 'gestalt' translates to 'pattern,' 'form,' or 'constellation' and is often rendered in English as 'the whole picture.' Gestalt psychotherapy, therefore, offers a holistic approach to exploring the psyche, considering a person's feelings, body, and mind as an interconnected whole.
In gestalt counseling, the therapist and the client examine both the person's 'verbal dialogue' (expressing thoughts and emotions) and their 'energy dialogue' (sensations experienced in the body and unconscious bodily responses). This process establishes a gestalt, forging a connection between a person's mind, emotions, and body. Through the Gestalt approach, individuals gain awareness of how negative thought patterns and behaviors hinder genuine self-awareness, contributing to unhappiness.
This transformative process involves deep reflection, emotional exploration, and guidance from a counselor, proving effective in various aspects of one's life.
Online Counselling
Online counseling, although it may seem like a modern concept, has been in practice for decades, utilizing communication methods such as phone calls, electronic messaging, and video sessions. The convenience of having electronic technology at our fingertips has further popularized modalities like online counseling, offering flexibility and anonymity — a crucial component for many seeking mental health support in today's busy and stressful world.
In traditional therapy, individuals visit their therapists in person, engaging in face-to-face sessions. Online counseling, however, provides an alternative, allowing communication through video sessions, telephone calls, or electronic messaging. Despite the differences in format, online counseling encompasses the same therapeutic techniques as traditional therapy, offering non-judgmental listening, personalized strategies, and expert care.
Research, including studies published in the Journal of Affective Disorders and Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Networking in 2013, suggests that online counseling is as effective as traditional face-to-face therapy. In some cases, it may even be more effective, with participants in one study reporting a more "personal" connection with their online therapists and better long-term engagement with the therapeutic process.
Online counseling is an excellent option for individuals dealing with various mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship or job concerns, life transitions, grief, loss, PTSD, or trauma. It is particularly beneficial for those who lack access to therapists due to geographic constraints, disabilities, or time limitations. The protective distance of online therapy also appeals to individuals who may be hesitant to share intimate details in person, making it a viable and accessible option for those new to therapy.
My tailored approach
As an MBACP accredited Gestalt Practitioner with over two decades of experience, I've cultivated a comprehensive and holistic therapeutic approach. I delve into every facet of an individual's identity, exploring their thought processes, self-expression, and the ways emotional wounds and trauma may manifest in the physical body.
My therapeutic methods are adaptable, whether focusing explicitly on the body, incorporating spiritual elements, experimenting with various approaches, or addressing practical aspects. Recognizing each person's uniqueness, I tailor my approach to suit their individual needs. Throughout this process, I deeply respect and honor each individual's values and beliefs.
In my view, therapy involves two individuals engaging with their personal experiences, beliefs, gender, sexuality, age, and cultural backgrounds. Together, we work towards growth, moving forward in pursuit of peace, aliveness, healing, and happiness.
Topics and issues I can help you with include: [Specify the areas or concerns you address in your practice]
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Sexual Abuse
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Crisis/Breakdown
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Emotional Abuse
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Identity issues
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Stress
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Self-sabotage
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Low Self-Confidence
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LGBTQA+
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Sexual life
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Relationships problems
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Anxiety
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Bullying
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Depression
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Spiritual Questioning
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Addictions
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Anger management
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Bereavement (loss of dear ones)
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Adolescence issues
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Couples counselling
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Eating disorders
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Life Transitions
What we'll do
Working together, we will explore the following:
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The essential patterns of your existence
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The main themes of your life
In our therapeutic journey, we will delve into the patterns and themes originating from your childhood and adulthood, examining how they manifest and influence your current life. If necessary, we will explore ways to modify these patterns.
As a Gestalt practitioner, my approach involves fostering continuous awareness. This includes working with body movements, vocal patterns, and styles, engaging in one-to-one interactions, and, when appropriate, utilizing experimentation within a safe, professional, and supportive environment. Beyond enhancing awareness, I emphasize helping you develop emotional self-support and strengthen interpersonal connections.
By increasing your awareness of your body, mind, environment, and spiritual self, you will be empowered to create vivid and meaningful experiences. This heightened awareness can significantly improve the quality of your life, enabling you to make better, more satisfying decisions.
Location and fees
Location
Sessions takes place in London in the Earl's Court (Kensington) area. The area is easily reached by Underground (District, Central and Piccadilly Line), Overground, National Rail and by several buses. I also offer zoom sessions (including for international clients).
Fees for individuals
A 50 minutes session for an individual is £70.
Fees for couples
A 50 minutes session for a couple is £90.
Concessions
I have a few slots available for students and people at lower income (usually daytime - from £50 - 60). Simply enquire me for slots availabilities.
Getting started
Free assessment
For people new to counselling or unsure - I offer an initial chat via email, on the phone, or via Zoom. This way I can get an understanding of your needs so we can see if I am a right person for you.
First session
Here you get to meet me, see where and how I work, and we start analysing your problems and make a plan on how to tackle them, including follow up sessions. Usually it works best to start with weekly sessions though the length of the therapy may vary from a couple of weeks to longer depending on the individual (or on the couple).
Cancellations
If a problem arises for which you are unable to attend, please let me know as soon as possible as other people might benefit from that spot.
To get started you can either:
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contact me on: 07595 979263
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email me at: deanaddams@mac.com
I look forward to hearing from you.
