Archive for category: Phenomenology

Phenomenology explained by Helen McWilliam

Phenomenology: Understanding Human Experience

Definition and Historical Origins

Phenomenology is the study of how humans give shape and meaning to their experiences, and is one of the key theoretical underpinnings of Gestalt Therapy. In the early 20thcentury, Phenomenology was the domain of scientists such as Edmund Husserl who developed a phenomenological method to arrive at an objective view of “phenomena” in the physical world.

Husserl introduced the concept of ‘bracketing’, which involves putting aside conventional biases and assumptions to explore phenomena directly, as they appear in consciousness. As the fields of psychology and psychotherapy emerged, human experiences came to be seen as “phenomena” which could be observed and described in the same way.

Maurice Merleau-Ponty expanded on Husserl’s ideas by emphasizing the role of the body and perception in shaping human experience. For Merleau-Ponty, our embodied existence is fundamental to how we engage with the world and others.

Heidegger, another influential phenomenologist, explored the concept of “being-in-the-world” and the way our existence is intertwined with our surroundings. He emphasized the importance of human existence in shaping our understanding of reality.

Everyday Experience of Phenomenology

In everyday life, phenomenology encourages a heightened awareness of our immediate experiences and how they shape our perceptions and actions. For example, consider two friends viewing the same painting. One might focus on the paint strokes and the effect of light, experiencing feelings of awe and beauty, while the other might be reminded of past experiences in the bush, feeling discomfort. Their different life experiences shape their present experience as they view the painting, highlighting the individuality of experience.

This approach emphasises the subjective and lived experience of engaging with a situation, revealing the intricate ways in which consciousness interacts with and constructs meaning from the world around us. It also emphasizes the individuality of experience, reminding us that each person’s encounter with a situation, such as a work of art, can be unique, shaped by their own personal history, perceptions, emotions, and reflections.

Phenomenology in Therapy

In the therapy room, phenomenology manifests as a quiet, reflective process where the therapist and client co-create a space for exploration. The therapist waits, allowing time for the client’s experiences to emerge and be expressed. Together they agree on which aspect of the client’s experience to explore further.

The therapist practices ‘bracketing’ to set aside their own intrinsic beliefs about life, employing an open, naïve curiosity towards the client’s experience, as they describe it. The therapist might make an enquiry like, “And what was that like for you?”, and then be genuinely engaged by the response. “Ah…. That’s interesting. Could you tell me more about that?”, with the full expectation that what emerges might be quite surprising. By meeting the client with openness and respect, the therapist facilitates a process where the client can investigate their difficulties and discover their needs.

Phenomenology emphasizes the importance of embodied existence and the interconnectedness of individuals and their environments. The therapist pays attention to bodily sensations and experiences, which can be a source of empathy and understanding. By exploring the client’s experiences, such as painful memories of the past and anxiety about the future, the therapist helps the client gain new insights and meaning.

Phenomenology in Relationships and Groups

Phenomenology offers valuable insights into relationships and groups by focusing on how individuals experience and perceive their interactions. By exploring the lived experiences of individuals, phenomenology helps us understand the underlying factors that contribute to misunderstandings, tensions, and disagreements in relationships. It highlights the importance of each individual’s subjective experience in shaping our social world.

In relationships, authenticity involves expressing one’s true feelings, thoughts, and desires without conforming to external expectations. This fosters deeper connections and mutual understanding. For example, in a romantic relationship, phenomenological analysis can reveal how authenticity and shared experiences impact the lived experiences and quality of the connection between partners. It helps in bringing about mutual understanding and respect for each other’s perspectives.

In parent-child relationships, phenomenology can help bridge the gap in perceptions and foster better communication. For instance, a parent’s concern for their child’s well-being might be perceived as overprotectiveness by the child. Understanding these differing perspectives can foster empathy and respect.

In group settings, phenomenology highlights the importance of understanding how individuals’ aspirations converge to create collective experiences and actions. It emphasizes the need for shared goals and the acknowledgment of the impact of social norms and pressures to conform. Phenomenology highlights the need for authenticity and shared experiences of individuals within groups.

Conclusion

Phenomenology offers a unique perspective on human experience, emphasizing the subjective nature of reality and the ways in which we actively engage with the world. By delving into the essence of phenomena, we can gain deeper insights into the complexities of consciousness and the richness of lived experience. This approach not only enhances our understanding of individual experiences but also provides valuable insights into relationships, groups, and therapeutic practices. Through phenomenology, we are reminded of the importance of being present, open, and reflective in our interactions with ourselves and others.

References

Clarkson, P. & Mackewn, J. (1993). Fritz Perls. Sage, London: Sage Press.

Joyce, P. & Sills, C. (2010). Skills in Gestalt Counselling & Psychotherapy. London: Sage Press.

Mackewn, J. (2012). Developing Gestalt Counselling. Los Angeles: Sage Press.

Skottun, G. Kruger, A (). Gestalt Therapy Practice therapy and Experiential Learning. London: Routledge.

What is gestalt therapy? The philosophy, theory and the therapy space by Helen McWilliam

What is Gestalt therapy? Gestalt philosophy, theory and the therapy space

Gestalt therapy developed in the 1940s and 50s as a revision of Freudian psychoanalysis which privileged the expertise and insights of the psychoanalyst. Gestalt therapy, in contrast, focuses on what is immediately present, with insights arising from the relationship between client and therapist. The aim of therapy is for the client to sharpen her perceptions of her experiences in their totality (Yontef, & Jacobs, 2000). I examine this and several other key philosophical and theoretical concepts of Gestalt.

Holism

Holism maintains that humans are self-regulating and growth-oriented. Gestalt therapy rejects the idea of dichotomy between the psyche and the body, instead emphasizing that the body, spirituality, language, thought and behaviour are inseparable; the whole being more than the sum of its parts. People have learnt to separate these parts and live fragmented lives. An important objective of Gestalt therapy is to address this fragmentation and so activate livelier and growth-oriented aspects of the client.

Organismic self-regulation

Organismic self-regulation is central to Gestalt therapy theory. A person’s behaviour is regulated by the process of organismic self-regulation by which they regulate themselves according to needs that arise. The environment continually creates new needs, which causes discomfit, until a person can satisfy their needs and grow. As a person develops and her situation changes, she may not be aware of her needs or believe that she can choose her behaviour and may need help to address her situation to restore balance. (Yontef & Jacobs, 2000; Clarkson & Mackewn, 1977).

Phenomenology

The basic principle of phenomenology is that of being in the world here and now. In the therapy room, the therapist’s emphasis is on supporting her client to explore her experience.  The inquiry may move from body sensations and feelings to thoughts, memories, hopes and dreams.  At some point in the therapy session the inquiry moves to meaning making, how the client understands the meaning of events in the environment they find themselves in, at any given moment. Hopes, memories and imaginings are part of the therapy session in the here and now, creating a dynamic process between client and therapist. (Zinker, 1978; Clarkson & Mackewn, 1997).

The therapist and the therapeutic relationship

The therapeutic relationship forms the foundation of effective therapy and is at the heart of the therapeutic process. The relationship between the therapist and the client is a unique and collaborative one.  The therapist regards her client with respect and perceives her in all her uniqueness.  (Clarkson & Mackewn, 1997). At times the therapist needs to relate in a practical way, discussing practical agreements, such as payment and when to meet and at times the client may need practical advice.  At other times the therapist needs to enter the world of her client and be with her and support her with their presence.

Existential Dialogue

Existential Dialogue is an exploration of a person’s experiences and beliefs. The Gestalt therapist explores alternate ways of thinking that value and respect the client’s experiences and what the client comes to believe (Yontef & Jacobs, 2000). The possibility opens up for the client to be authentic and take responsibility as they learn about themselves. With existential dialogue, the therapist shows genuine interest in her client, trusts in the organismic self-regulation of her client and that the client will make choices for action that are right for her, as she assimilates and integrates the work of therapy.

Field

A person cannot be understood apart from their environment. Variables that contribute to shaping a person’s behaviour and experience are present in the current field, and therefore, a person cannot be understood without understanding the field, or context, in which they live. A client’s life story cannot tell the therapist what actually happened in her past, but it can tell them how the client experiences their history in the here and now. The client’s experience of history is shaped by the client’s current field conditions.

Change

The paradoxical theory of change is central to Gestalt methodology. Change takes place when a person invests time and energy to be what she is, rather than focusing on how she would like to be (Beisser, 1970). In the therapy room, the therapist supports the client’s awareness of her own situation during the therapeutic process. She encourages the client, rather than trying to be what she thinks she should be, to become aware of her actual sensations and feelings. By giving attention to part of the field that has been out of awareness, there is the possibility for reorganization of the field and the client can choose to change her behaviour.

Experiment

An experiment is a tool for exploring how the client lives in her world, often opening up new information about the client and the possibility for further therapeutic work. Various forms of experiment include focussing on body-based sensations, role-playing, chair work, visualisation, metaphor and dream work, the use of creative media including use of objects in the therapy room and movement (Joyce & Sills, 2010).

Conclusion

Gestalt therapy offers a safe and supportive environment where therapeutic insights are developed through a collaborative process between client and the therapist. This approach respects the client’s unique experiences and perceptions, recognizing that the pace of therapy is guided by the client’s readiness for change. Central to Gestalt therapy is a deep respect for the client’s courage and willingness to engage in the therapeutic journey, ensuring that the therapy space is one of acceptance, empathy, and genuine understanding. The holistic nature of Gestalt therapy, combined with its emphasis on organismic self-regulation and existential dialogue, empowers clients to reconnect with their authentic selves and navigate their paths to growth and healing.

If you would like to know more about Gestalt therapy visit my frequently asked questions page or please feel free to send a message through the contact page.

References

Beisser, A. (1970) The paradoxical theory of change.

Clarkson, P. & Mackewn, J. (1993). Fritz Perls. Sage, London: Sage Press.

Joyce, P. & Sills, C. (2010). Skills in Gestalt Counselling & Psychotherapy. London: Sage Press.

Yontef, G & Jacobs, L. (2000). Gestalt Therapy, in Current Psychotherapies, by Corsini and Wedding.

Zinker, J. (1978). Creative process in Gestalt therapy. Vintage Books: New York.