Gestalt Therapy, an Introduction, Vernon Van De Riet , Margaret Pat Korb, John Jeffrey Gorrell, Pergamon, 1980, first edition, fourth printing 1987, ISBN:9780080255866, Softcover, 9x6x.35″,129pp.

VERY GOOD+ condition – Like New with light shelf wear, sticker ghost on rear cover…tight binding, appears never opened or read, no markings noticed…

(NOTE: Author, Margaret “Pat” Korb, was director of the Gainesville (FL) Gestalt Center, she was a wise woman and revered by her students and clients. I decided to post the last photo to better introduce her to you – it is not part of the package (LOL). She was my teacher, mentor, and friend during my time working as a psychotherapist in Florida prisons. I learned from her how powerful giving a person permission to be exactly as they were in the moment is. It absolutely transformed my work with the inmates. Pat’s magic touched so many. The last photo is of a painting a student/associate of her’s did. It is how we all remember her… she lit up our lives.)

“Gestalt Therapy: An Introduction,” authored by Vernon Van De Riet, Margaret Pat Korb, and John J. Gorrell and published by Pergamon in 1980, offers a thorough overview of the principles and practice of Gestalt therapy. This modality, a form of psychotherapy, emphasizes personal responsibility and focuses on the individual’s experience in the present moment.

The book breaks down the tenets of Gestalt therapy into comprehensible, digestible chapters, allowing the reader to grasp its complex concepts. It presents the theory’s foundation and its philosophical underpinnings, including the influence of existentialism and phenomenology.

The authors use case studies and therapeutic dialogues to illustrate how Gestalt therapy functions in practice. They spotlight the therapist’s role as a facilitator rather than a director, emphasizing the importance of patient self-awareness and discovery.

Moreover, Van De Riet, Korb, and Gorrell delve into key aspects of the therapy such as the ‘here and now’ focus, the use of active techniques, and the crucial role of the therapist-patient relationship. They also address common criticisms of the modality, providing a balanced view.

“Gestalt Therapy: An Introduction” serves as an essential resource for both practicing therapists and students, providing insights into this distinctive therapeutic approach.