Gestalt Therapy as a Transrational Approach: An Evolutionary Perspective

Abstract

Abstract I explore evolutionary dimensions of Gestalt therapy by referring to Ken Wilber's general evolutionary model and, in particular, to his spectrum of consciousness. My assumption is that Gestalt therapy could make more use of its yet rather modestly elaborated innovative potential by supporting transrational structures at the interface of personal and transpersonal development. Such support could be provided from a perspective of depth and subjective meaning in contrast to objective perspectives of most other therapeutic approaches. At the same time I suggest the necessity to remain humble about what Gestalt therapy can achieve and what its limitations are within the spectrum of personal and social evolution.