Dialogue and experiment

"Abstract: This paper discusses the compatibility of Martin Buber’s dialogic method and active Gestalt therapy interventions, which are called experiments. The authors trace a brief history of the distinction between different psychotherapy systems which focus on the therapeutic relationship on the one hand or on active behavioural interventions on the other. They submit Gestalt therapy as a modality that integrates these seeming polarities, and they discuss the theoretical and practical consistency between the dialogic method, Gestalt therapy’s change theory (‘the paradoxical theory of change’), the phenomenological method, and Gestalt therapy experiments. It is the authors’ opinion that Gestalt therapy experiments do not aim for preset behavioural goals, but that they are in complete alignment with Gestalt therapy’s dialogic attitude. A definition of the term Gestalt therapy experiment is given, and its different uses are illustrated. The concept of resistance is examined in light of Gestalt therapy’s treatment philosophy. Indications as well as cautions regarding the use of Gestalt therapy experiments are outlined and different types of experiments, including specific examples, are provided. Key words: Gestalt therapy, dialogic method, experiments, paradoxical theory of change, contact, awareness."