What is Gestalt?

Gestalt is a German word meaning both ‘the whole’ (as being more than the sum of its parts), and ‘the pattern’. The Gestalt approach draws on both these meanings, seeing people as inextricable parts of their environments, both affecting and affected by those they live around. Philosophical and biological concepts of how people function in the world are woven into this dynamic and innovative approach to human development. We believe that all people have a natural tendency towards health, towards satisfying relationships with others and with their environment. However, old patterns of behaviour and fixed ideas can form blocks to health, communication and contact with others. We aim to increase awareness of such patterns in order to support energy, liveliness and contact, and to facilitate movement towards health, in both individuals and organisations.