Social Justice Group
Gestalt Associates for Psychotherapy (GAP) has a Social Justice Group that meets regularly. Our aim is to engage in dialogue towards action addressing:
-How Gestalt theory and practice can support social action and anti-racist work, and help heal divisions and polarizations in our country and our world.
-How we together can support and increase diversity in our institute and our communities, and work to undo systemic racism and our part in it.
This page outlines some of the current efforts at GAP.
Gestalt Theory and Social Justice
The roots of Gestalt therapy are embedded in political and social forces as they affect us and are affected by us. Gay rights, racial equality, individual uniqueness, and restorative justice are all parts of this field -- as are spiritual experience, intimacy, and more. At GAP, we endeavor to carry forward the values of our social activist roots, with openness to gender, sexual identity, & racial diversity.
Streetwork Project
Gestalt Associates for Psychotherapy has had a long relationship with Streetwork Project, a harm reduction program for homeless youth in New York City. Streetwork is a drop-in center, shelter and outreach program that connects with some of the most disenfranchised youth in our city. This linkage most recently included GAP trainees providing therapy to clients at the Streetwork programs. In the past GAP graduates were front-line staff and directors of Streetwork, and Gestalt theory and group-process has deeply influenced the program. Both harm reduction and Gestalt therapy recognize that making space to be with the other person precisely as they are opens new possibilities for growth and motivation. We are currently seeking new possibilities for community engagement.
Workbook Circles
The Social Justice Group at GAP has begun to offer Workbook Circles, self-run groups taking on Me and White Supremacy by Layla Saad. The intention of these groups is to create a space for deeper process, providing support and accountability in taking on the imperative work of undoing our part in white supremacy.
Social Justice Listserv and Resources
Gestalt Associates for Psychotherapy hosts a listserv dedicated to social justice initiatives, information, dialogue and resources. This virtual space was created to bring together our trainees, graduate and faculty who are interested in the anti-racist efforts.
The Social Justice Group has also started to organize a virtual library of books and articles written by people of color and other groups under-represented on our curriculum. Classes have begun to include these items as required reading, recognizing that diversity of perspective and life-experience adds value and depth — even within a specialized area of study such as Gestalt theory.