For the first time in Japan a certified 4 year training in Contemporary Gestalt Therapy.
Introductory Session
Session 1 – 6 days
Introduction to Gestalt principles and methods, via experiential group format. Individual demonstration work, interactive group, and explanation of Gestalt theory as relevant to the work.
Session 2 – 6 days
Further introduction of basic Gestalt principles and methods, via experiential group format. Individual demonstration work, interactive group, and explanation of Gestalt theory as relevant to the work.
Hours of training: 114
Intermediate Session
Session 1 – 6 days
Session 2 – 6 days
Course Requirements
Hours of training: 114
First Year
Session 1 – 10 days
Session 2 – 10 days
Course Requirements
Hours of training: 186
Second Year
Session 1 – 10 days
Session 2 – 10 days
Course Requirements
Hours of training: 186
Third Year
Session 1 – 10 days
Session 2 – 10 days
Course Requirements
Hours of training: 188
The training
The training is being auspices under the umbrella of Oneness Group in Japan.
The training takes place within a framework of 4 years part time study. Each year develops trainees to a particular level. The application can be for personal or professional purposes.
The entire course is currently structured at approximately 788 hours of face-to-face training and 70 hours of video instruction.
Whilst the training is set at a minimum number of hours, trainees are encouraged to take a self-directed learning approach. Thus a person can choose their own pace and learning style, and can invest additional hours as they wish in order to derive more benefit from the training provided.
Study groups are encouraged throughout the three years, providing a forum to extend learning and build mutual support in the study process. A manual of exercises and discussion topics is provided which can be used in the study sessions.
The Introductory Gestalt training session acquaints participants with a personal experience of Gestalt theory in practice. It provides an opportunity experience the magic of Gestalt
The Intermediate Gestalt training session takes the first steps into the basic theory of Gestalt, covering the fundamental principles and theories.
In the first year trainees are introduced to more advanced understanding of the Gestalt discipline through an integrative approach of Theory, Skills and Practice. There is a component of written work and some readings are supplied; the main focus is on establishing an initial experiential familiarity with the application of Gestalt.
In second year, training builds on the basics of the first year but emphasises the application of the principles to working with people.
By third year trainees are engaging in supervised Gestalt work, honing their skills to a high level of competence
Successful completion will lead to the issuing of a Diploma of Gestalt Therapy.
Accreditation
The training is accredited by Gestalt Therapy International, and accords with core standards set by Gestalt accreditation authorities around the world
Course Philosophy
The training program seeks to develop a sense of personal agency and unique style, married with skills and knowledge. Being an experiential therapy, Gestalt training entails a significant amount of personal exploration and a willingness to ‘Risk Being Alive’. However, the program is not solely therapeutic and participants need to have sufficient self support to handle the intensity of the training process.
The aim is to equip each person with a strong theoretical and philosophical grasp of Gestalt, as well as assist them to a point of personal integration and readiness to work with others in a Gestalt framework. A climate of authenticity is fostered in the training and each person is supported in their personal growth. A deepening of awareness and responsibility is facilitated, and creative experimentation is encouraged.
Gestalt therapy supports people to live without recipes, to find their own creative way through life; the training echoes this approach. Rather than give students a set of instructions on ‘how to do therapy’, the learning is how to trust in the process. Knowledge and skills are essential in Gestalt practice, and are underpinned by a fundamental faith in human resilience and the ability of people to uncover their own truths. The ‘empty vessel’ model of learning is discouraged, and trainees are encouraged to have faith in their own wisdom rather adopt theories or beliefs without question.
The institute strives to treat every student as the individual they are, balancing the need for consistent standards and operating procedures with the unique needs of each person.
Training Standards
The program represents an investment of money as well as the time and personal effort required to succeed. Thus trainees can reasonably expect certain standards in the training provided to them and in the way they are treated as fee paying students.
The kind of expectations that the Institute seeks to meet include the following:
Access and Equity
We are aware of the kinds of obstacles faced by those wishing to study. It is committed to making the training accessible to people from all walks of life. This attitude is manifested in some of the following ways:
World Class Standards
Lifeworks training is committed to providing world class training for those living in China. Every aspect of the program and its delivery is oriented towards excellence, whilst at the same time striving to foster a sense of humour in a relaxed atmosphere. We pride ourselves on providing leading edge training in Gestalt therapy, supporting students through to the point of achieving competent practitioner status.
We have has high commitment to quality in all our operations. The larger focus of supporting optimal student learning is constantly reassessed.
Admission
Eligibility is determined by a number of factors including life experience, degree of self-awareness, academic back-ground, personal stability, being open to positive and negative feedback, and a capacity to reflect on and learn from experience.
This is designated as a professional program, but people who enrol come from all walks of life and it is not necessary to be a practicing health professional or psychologist to enter the course. Gestalt training has traditionally been open to a diverse range of people and this course recognises that sufficient life experience and learning can constitute an admissible prerequisite as much as a formal academic qualification.
Applications
Entry into the Introductory program is available for everyone.
Entry into the Intermediate program requires having completed the Introductory program (total of 12 days).
Entry into the 3 years of training requires approval by the directors. Applications are done by filling out a form on the webpage.
Notes
ROHAN ~ Medical Doctor and Consultant
Steve is a truly gifted teacher and therapist who is clearly practising his calling. He brings wisdom, genuine caring and compassion to our sessions and he has helped me finally navigate a path towards a healthier and more skilful way to approach anxiety, stress and behaviours that were damaging to my relationships and my work. I have seen psychologists before and been left with little. This is the first time that I have seen genuine changes to my mental well-being that has improved the quality of my relationships, work and life.
NATALIE ~ Acupuncturist, R.N
I first met Steve through a presentation he did on Family Constellations. This was a very powerful and releasing experience. I since contacted him for personal work and professional supervision. I have benefitted greatly from continued sessions, I feel aware of the roles I play in my life, and have stopped blaming others for the decisions I have made. I feel in control of the direction my life takes now. This, amongst a myriad of other revelations, has given me greater freedom and a sustained sense of happiness.
PAUL ~ Drug & Alcohol counsellor
Four years training with Steve Gunther was life changing. I learnt so much about myself and how I am in the world, how am I with clients and how to deal with and engage any person in any situation.
I gained the skills to practice Gestalt Psychotherapy and the confidence to do it in my own style. I have gone on to expand my Gestalt training into Community Development and helping effect societal change.
Steve has a hands on assured teaching style which is just as effective as his brilliant personal counselling work - powerful and profound, yet guided by the clients and the students.
JENNY ~ Therapist
I have know Steve for 18 years, experiencing him as Gestalt teacher and therapist. I have grown to have a great deal of respect for him and have always valued all that he strives for. He is a person of great integrity, intelligence, wisdom, energy, sincerity and care.
Added to this has always been a commitment to his own personal and professional growth, demonstrating itself in humility, confidence and determination. I have always felt that he has had my best interests at heart, which resulted in me being gently guided towards taking risks, in healing my past and leaping into my future.
The 'work' that I have done with Steve over the years has helped shape my life and the person I am today, which is greatly full-filled and happy.
SHIRLEY ~ Psychotherapist
Having been a client of Steve's, I confidently recommend his services to any client who is seeking therapy. I found him to be contactful, empathic, intuitive. fully understanding of and tuned in to the issues I presented. I felt very safe in his care and professional expertise, and I experienced personal growth, increased self awareness and complete satisfaction through the consultations I had with him.
BRYANT ~ Natural therapist and Homeopath
Gestalt Therapy with Steve Gunther gave me two focal insights in particular. One was how my energy moved between my ‘introvert’ and ‘extrovert’ self, and the other how my physical body carried the demand I placed on myself as expectation.
One session I clearly remember was Steve helping me elicit an image of a ball and chain around my left leg (which was chronically arthritic). As I processed those feelings and felt images, I saw shifts including release of tension, emotionally and energetically, over the period. I am very grateful to Steve for his devotion and his art, and for his very astute processing skills. Good memories.