Gestalt Approaches and Chairs Methods

As part of my integrative practice, I often incorporate Gestalt therapy techniques. Gestalt therapy emphasises the importance of the “here and now,” personal responsibility, self-expression and the awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations. One key feature of Gestalt is the use of chairs methods, such as the empty chair or two-chair technique, which can be particularly helpful when working through internal conflicts or unresolved feelings.

• Empty Chair Technique: You might imagine a person (or a part of yourself) sitting in an empty chair, allowing you to communicate directly with them or with the situation at hand. This can bring clarity and emotional release as you “talk through” unresolved tensions.
• Two-Chair Technique: Here, you move between two chairs representing different aspects of yourself, such as conflicting desires, emotions, or beliefs. By embodying each perspective, you gain deeper insight, fostering understanding and, ultimately, resolution.
• The three chairs. You may want to revisit the different “versions” of yourself, anchored in the past, present, and future.

These methods can create a powerful, experiential process where thoughts and emotions are explored in real time. By engaging with the present moment, Gestalt therapy encourages greater self-awareness and helps you develop healthier, more authentic ways of relating to yourself and others.

Ready to take the next step?

If you have questions about any of these therapies—be it DBT, couples counselling, or support for specific challenges such as dissociation, social phobia, or neurodiversity—please feel free to reach out. I offer a free initial consultation, where we can discuss your circumstances and decide on the best path forward together. You don’t have to face your struggles alone; I’m here to help you navigate through life’s challenges and find meaningful ways to move ahead, so contact me now.