🎧 Understanding Gestalt – Episode 6: Self Theory
We are very happy to share the sixth episode of the Understanding Gestalt podcast, in which KamiL Torczewski talks with Jack Panster – Gestalt psychotherapist, teacher, supervisor and researcher of corporeality in relational experience. This time, the topic of the conversation is Self Theory – one of the most fundamental yet complex issues in Gestalt psychotherapy.
This is a unique episode that allows you to dive into a deep understanding of Self as a process that happens at the interface between Self and You, individual and environment, experience and contact. With great sensitivity and precision, Jacek Panster talks about Self not as something we “have,” but as a dynamic way of being in relationship – in body, in emotion, in encounter.
The conversation raises questions about how to recognize the forming processes of contact, how to understand the figures and background in the relational field, and how the therapist can support the client in regaining a sense of self – not through analysis, but through attentive presence and a willingness to be together in what happens.
KamiL and Jacek also look at how Self theory intertwines with the experience of the body – both in human development and in therapeutic practice. Jacek shares his thoughts from a somatic perspective, noting how Self is embodied in tension, movement, silence and the spontaneous impulse for contact.
This talk is not only for those studying Gestalt psychotherapy, but for all who seek a deeper understanding of the relational nature of human beings. For those who want to get a better grasp of what it is to be present, to be in contact and to be in truth with oneself and the other person.
This episode is also particularly important for us, because it involves a beautiful collaboration – Jacek and KamiL met not only in front of the microphone, but also within the walls of the Lodz Gestalt School. The meeting with Jacek within the framework of the “Movement to CONTACT” workshop was a wonderfully valuable adventure, full of lively contact and inspiring exchanges. We are also immensely grateful to be able to work with KamiL in the role of coach and that he initiated this podcast – a space for conversation, reflection and deepening our understanding of Gestalt.
🎙️ Understanding Gestalt – Episode 6 | Listen to the episode here:
🔗 Listen to episode 6: Self Theory – Jacek Panster (Spotify)
We would also appreciate it if you share your thoughts after listening to the episode! 🧠💭