Counselled Out

• Welcome to the BOL Forum on Gestalt Therapy by John Grohol, 3/19/97
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    • putting ideas into clients heads by ginger, 5/16/98
      
      

Ginger, it sounds as if you have had experiences with Gestalt counsellors that you found unhelpful. In terms of confidentiality, I know that this has always been emphasised by my trainers, as well as my supervisors. Also, it is not considered helpful to tell someone how they are feeling. I know a Gestalt therapist might say 'I imagine that feels like....', and I think you are saying something different.

It may be that you have unluckily met two therapists/counsellors that were Gestalt and that you did not get on with. I think that the relationship with your therapist is very important, and if you are not feeling comfortable enough with someone, or trusting enough then perhaps they are not someone for you to be working with.

I hope you are not put off the idea of therapy, or Gestalt for ever. I think you will find that the majority of Gestaltists follow clear codes of ethics and practice, and you can enquire about them.

• Ethic's and Morals by poet2000, 8/16/98