Training Programs Overview

Our objective is to support trainees to develop skills and competency in gestalt therapy theory and practice. We strive to integrate relational gestalt therapy principles with the unique personal style of each participant and facilitate the building of a supportive learning community. Trainees are placed in groups of about 8 to 12 members who are encouraged to use the support and commitment of cohorts to identify potential areas of growth and create opportunities to experiment both in the training and in practice settings. We are not interested in imparting a particular style of therapy or a restrictive method for practice. Our focus is in helping each trainee understand and develop gestalt therapy theory to be used as a support for his/her specific talents, style, approach to therapy, and areas of interest and responsibility.

Below is a listing of our programs, all of which feature our focus on the therapeutic relationship in the therapy process. Clicking on the links will take you to a page of details, including dates, fees, and a description of the program.

Ongoing Weekend Trainings

Participants around the globe are welcome to join this online program. Trainees enroll for one year at a time. Multiyear training can lead to certification as a Gestalt therapist. Beginning and advanced groups available.

Winter Residential Program

Participants from all over the world join in our week of exploration, learning and living together. Join us as we explore clinical applications of the evolving relational perspective, and continue to refine the meaning and practice of dialogic contacting.

Consultation and Study Groups

On-going case consultation, readings and discussion of gestalt therapy.

Online Introductory Workshop: A Taste of Gestalt Therapy

An introduction to contemporary gestalt therapy, for people new to gestalt therapy and for “old hands” who want to be updated.

Gestalt Learning Community

Each training group maintains its membership for the duration of the training year. Continuation in the institute does not guarantee the same group membership for each successive year. While changes in group membership may introduce challenges for some, our hope is that each trainee will have the opportunity to cultivate supportive relationships with the larger learning community in which we operate. The evolution of community is an important factor in creating the conditions we believe to be critical to each trainee’s professional development. The broader community enriches and diversifies the learning experience and ultimately builds the foundation for enduring friendships, professional support networks, service projects and the possibility for wide-scale social movements. Our program design intentionally leads to opportunities for exchange of new ideas, cross fertilization and exposure to difference.

Our purpose is to support trainees to develop skills and competence in gestalt therapy theory and practice. We strive to integrate relational gestalt therapy principles with the unique personal style of each participant and facilitate the building of a supportive learning community. We also strongly recommend that our trainees enter their own gestalt therapy. A list of qualified gestalt therapists practicing in your area is available upon request.

Faculty

Armin Baier
L.C.S.W., J.D.

Ren Barnebey
M.F.T.

Christine Campbell
M.F.T., A.T.R.

Lynne Jacobs
Ph.D.

Michelle Seely
M.F.T.

Gary Yontef
Ph.D., A.B.P.P.

Pacific Gestalt Institute

1800 Fairburn Ave
Suite 103
Los Angeles, CA 90025
email us