Clients' subjective experiences of navigating challenges in Gestalt therapy: an interpretative phenomenological analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

This study explored the lived experiences of four female clients with common mental disorders and suboptimal structural integration after 30 sessions of Gestalt therapy, navigating emotional and relational challenges, bodily awareness, and agency.

Method

Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), we analyzed four semi-structured interviews, followed by a cross-case comparison.

Results

Two experiential patterns emerged. Clients with low-integrated personality structures faced significant difficulties with emotional regulation, self-concept stability, and relational dynamics. They relied heavily on external validation and struggled to develop cohesive internal processes. While they described increased awareness of emotions and bodily sensations,

SUBMITTER: Kaisler RE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12597916 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature