Gestalt psychology is a theoretical perspective that emphasizes wholeness, awareness, and current action. Gestalt psychologists may also practice Gestalt therapy, which focuses on a person’s current life and aims to promote self-awareness and perceptual understanding. Training and certification may be required for a career in Gestalt psychology.
For individuals interested in the human mind and behavior, psychology is an ideal career choice. One can choose from numerous specialties based on personal interests, and Gestalt psychology is one such option. The Gestalt psychologist approaches psychology from Gestalt theory, and these individuals may also practice Gestalt therapy. Key features of this work include an emphasis on wholeness, awareness, and current action. Upon completion of teaching and training in traditional psychology, one may wish to join a Gestalt-oriented organization for further professional guidance.
This branch of psychology is not so much a career choice as a theoretical perspective. Perhaps the only essential requirements of the Gestalt psychologist are signatures of the principles of that theory. At a basic level, this form of psychology considers the whole of an individual rather than the individual parts. All mental and physical parts of a person must be seen as interconnected and inseparable. Perception, or the way one sees things, plays a key role in this perspective, as does the observation of patterns and categories in human thought.
A Gestalt psychologist interested in research does not necessarily conduct typical scientific experiments in the laboratory. On the contrary, observation is more important. These observations must also take place in natural environments, not the artificially reproduced environments generated by many traditional research experiments.
A therapeutic approach known as Gestalt therapy may be another common practice of the Gestalt psychologist. This therapy emphasizes looking at a person’s current life rather than the past focus employed in many other counseling approaches. Social relationships and environmental factors are assessed, as well as the individual’s response to these cues.
Self-awareness and perceptual understanding are the ultimate goals of Gestalt therapy. The psychologist guides the patient towards this understanding through observation, questioning and final description by the patient. Description does not mean just talking, but moving the patient to action through processes such as enacting a problem situation. Promoting a positive therapist-patient relationship is another important consideration. These outcomes will theoretically lead to a happier, better-adjusted individual.
If anyone is interested in a Gestalt psychologist job, many organizations around the world offer greater understanding and training in Gestalt approaches. Some large-scale sponsors of Gestalt psychologists include the Association for the Progress of Gestalt Therapy and the European Association for Gestalt Therapy. As with any psychology career, an individual must also receive advanced educational training, usually at a minimum master’s level. Certification may also be required, depending on individual career aspirations.
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