Fondo y Figura de/en la terapia Gestalt

Abstract

This article deals with the interaction figure/background of Gestalt therapy. Traditionally, Gestalt therapy is well known by its figures: Fritz Perls, the “here and now”, the techniques, etc. This work shows what is in the background of those figures: Laura Perls, Paul Goodman, the importance of the therapeutic relationship compared to technicality. Finally, it raises the notions of figure/background and, therefore, the notions of organism-environment field, experience, and examines the subject from a phenomenologic perspective. Psychology’s main concern is neither the subject-organism, nor the environment, but the inseparable relationship between them. This leads us to consider a pathology of “contacting” (in which organism and environment are being disturbed), rather than a pathology of the “psyche”. Therefore, certain tensions and blocks can not be released unless there is a change in the environment that offers new possibilities. In the therapeutic relationship the therapist acts as an environment for the patient. This situation enables the therapist to create changes in the relationship that will generate changes in the patient. If the institutions and mores were altered, many a recalcitrant symptom would vanish very suddenly.