Professional Program

Definition of Gestalt Therapy
Gestalt Therapy has both humanistic and existential roots. It is through awareness in the present, expression and completion that people grow and change. This awareness and expression comes in many forms; therefore, we are able to incorporate other types of expressive therapies under the Gestalt umbrella as the student gains knowledge of the basic process. It is through this process that the entirety of the person—body, mind and spirit—is included in this focus.

The Gestalt Institute of the Rockies offers a unique and intense learning experience. The focus of its programs (Basic Training Program and Advanced Training Program) is on the professional and personal growth of each participant. The relationship between the participant, the learning community and the larger community is also emphasized.

Basic Training Program
The Basic Training Program consists of seven trimesters (28 months) that concentrate on the essential theoretical concepts and experiential process of Gestalt therapy and related expressive therapies. The seven trimesters are focused on experiential learning in a small group setting. Both individual and group therapy are emphasized throughout. There is also an emphasis on using Gestalt Therapy with diverse ethnic and cultural populations, as well as families and larger systems. Participants may enter the program at the onset of any trimester to help them integrate into the ongoing curriculum.

The participants are expected to complete requisite readings and assignments, including journaling about their personal experience and professional awareness. In addition to attendance at regular class meetings, students are required to complete ten hours of individual Gestalt experience/introduction with a faculty member and ten hours of clinical supervision before completion of the Basic Training Program.

A certificate will be awarded upon the satisfactory completion of the Basic Training Program.

Advanced Training Program
The Advanced Training Program comprises three trimesters (12 months) focusing on intensive learning and practice in the application of Gestalt Therapy. Students may design their curriculum to include specialty treatment areas such as child and family therapy, addictions, abuse issues women's and men's issues, gay and lesbian issues, body work, cross cultural issues, etc. These specialized programs are coordinated with the staff and include seminars, projects, supervision and practice. Students who have successfully completed the Basic Training Program or its equivalent are eligible. A certificate will be awarded upon satisfactory completion of the Advanced Training Program.