Gestalt Therapeutic Approach

Reflection
Furthermore, a Gestalt therapeutic approach was used in this case study because it allowed the client to learn that recovery was possible. Although the client was coping with the pain, it was certainly not the best way. Therapy gave the client insight into what needed to change to move on from that suffering. It was important that the client realized that there are other ways to look at this situation and cope with it. I believe Gestalt therapy worked well with the client’s situation mainly because she became aware of her behaviors and understand why she would do them. For instance, due to past experiences, Chelsea allowed others to dictate what she should do and feel, resulting in the lack of confidence. This approach guided the client to understand that she is the one responsible for her emotions and how to view her situation

I believe my non-judgmental nature and open-mindedness makes it easier to connect with the client and have them feel more comfortable to disclose. Given this situation, the client was self-harming because she lacked the ability to cope with emotions in a positive manner. She was doing what she could to relieve the pain; she was engaging in that behavior to punish herself. It was essential that I created this accepting environment and that the client knew she was being understood. If Chelsea felt she was being judged, my lack of empathy may reinforce more of the self-destructive behavior. This closed-mindedness reaction may continue this self-perpetuating cycle of self-harm that the client is trying escape from. Gestalt therapy looks at the big picture, self-harming and other self-destructive behaviors are just one part of the story that could be changed. If the therapist creates this atmosphere that allows the client to feel they are understood, it can benefit their progress