The Ending is the Beginning

Abstract

"Abstract: This paper argues there is an important place for time-limited Gestalt psychotherapy in the provision of psychotherapeutic support, both in the public and private sector. In an age where resources are limited many individuals find short-term therapy is the only option. For other client pups it is the therapy of choice. This paper describes short-term counselhg in the context of a service for qualified nursing staff in the British National Health Service (WS). h examining the effectivenas of this form of psychotherapy, the paper emphasises the importance of using focus idenacation and reports how a maximum of twelve sessions plus an assessment session can be confronting, demanding and successful. The paper also explores the impIications of beginning a therapy relationship when the end is already in sight. The paper highlights the need for more research into the practice of Gestalt time-limited psychotherapy. Key wad: time-limited psychotherapy, National Health Service, assessment, focus idenamtion, endings, research."