Gestalt - Spirituality

• What did Perls mean, when... by James W. Patterson, Ph.D., 5/3/98
  • A Rational God? by Ed Riemann LCSW, 5/3/98
    • Encouraging by James W. Patterson, Ph.D., 5/4/98
      
      

I have a reaction to James Patterson's thoughts about who may or may not practice Gestalt. How are we to define spirituality? This is a very personal thing, and while I agree it is an aspect of the whole person, without definition is ultimately vague. I do see psychotherapy - and not Gestalt alone - answering a spiritual need, as religion or faith as such has broken down. Many people are looking for spirituality that is more practical and experiential than a belief ie: in the virgin birth, resurrection or whatever. As a component of Gestalt this is essential, and is surely an aspect of the contact experience, the reaching of the authentic self, and the experience of a fertile void, that perhaps exists beyond the self.

However, I do not like to see Gestalt become yet another religion. Often I see that aspect, and I think it dangerous. We must not create something where there is 'a way that is OK to be' and a way that is not. In this, we can lose compassion and understanding, alienate those who cannot reach our goals, and become superior. There is always a possibility of developing a spiritual ego, and I think many therapists have this, thinking themselves beyond others.

• Refining by James W. Patterson, Ph.D., 5/4/98