Existential, Gestalt, and Person-Centered Theories

¶ … theory make it the most appropriate for the client in the case study?

Among Ana's presenting problems include a general sense of hopelessness, with difficulty sleeping, and overall signs of depression. Gestalt therapy, however, would refrain from labeling Ana in the way that some clinical and psychiatric diagnoses can do (Elliott, 2014). The benefit in Ana's case of using Gestalt therapy would be to address her issues without the need for pathologizing the problems. Gestalt therapy is idea for Ana because her issues must be understood as part of a complex whole: her family situation is tenuous and an obvious cause for her personal pain and suffering. Gestalt theory is a "systems" theory that is particularly ideal for family issues (Zinker, 2013). Ana is understandably concerned about losing her husband, who is currently serving overseas in a combat position. She is faced with serious existential angst related to the potential death of her spouse, as well as the more tangible fears related to how she will financially cope while her husband is away (Vos, Cooper & Craig, 2015).

Why did you choose this theory over the others?

However helpful existential theories might help Ana to address the fear of death, the overall issues related to the family and her role within it can be better served using Gestalt therapy. Although person-centered therapy does have a role to play in people who need to cultivate greater self-awareness, and who are coping with problems linked to security and the need for love, Gestalt therapy provides the means by which to address the entire system -- the entire family (Li & Porock, 2013). As a systems theory, Gestalt theory will help Ana examine her personal boundaries in a humanistic manner.

What will be the goals of counseling and what intervention strategies are used to accomplish those goals?

The goals of counseling will be to help Ana empower herself by reconsidering her role in the family. The client is observably motivated, as she showed up for her appointment early. She is described as being depressed and anxious, evidenced by her body language including shaking hands and "tearfulness." Gestalt therapy shifts the attention away from these symptoms and signs, and helps Ana to move more into a position and role wherein she can empower herself and her family. A core and immediate goal would be to address the acute symptoms such as depression, sleep disorder, and loss of appetite. Another goal would be to provide Ana with healthy coping mechanisms while her husband is away, and to also prepare for a new life upon his return.

Is the theory designed for short- or long-term counseling?

Gestalt theory is well-suited for long-term counseling, as it addresses complex life issues and does not rely on pharmacological interventions as crutches. However, Gestalt therapy can be adapted to meet the needs of someone who cannot afford long-term counseling or who does not require it.

What will be the counselor's role with this client?

The counselor in a Gestalt therapeutic relationship serves a role more like a coach than a counselor, helping Ana reach conclusions about her own personal boundaries and needs. The goal is empowerment, and only via methods that can help Ana continually rethink her role will she be able to truly understand how to move from a position of fear to a position of strength.

What is the client's role in counseling?

The client's role will be active and participative. It is good that Ana seems motivated and showed up early for her appointment. Ana will need to discuss issues related to why she finds it difficult to ask her family of origin for help. Therefore, Ana's role will be an active participant in the healing process.

For what population(s) is this theory most appropriate? How does this theory address the social and cultural needs of the client?

Gestalt therapy is flexible and adaptable to a broad population base, as it is a systems theory. Ana is from Guatemala, and Gestalt therapy is uniquely suited for allowing culture, language, and ethnicity to be considered as part of the whole. The concept of Gestalt is to recognize the "web of relationship" that develops in any social system (Nevis, 2013, p. 13).

What additional information might be helpful to know about this case?