Intersectionality and Assemblage theory in Gestalt therapy

Abstract

This thesis explored if feminist theories of intersectionality and assemblage can be found in the theories and practice of Gestalt therapy, and to what extent, in order to determine if Gestalt therapy is a good base to practice feminist therapy from. The method that was chosen to investigate that subject was semi-structured interviews with four therapists in the Netherlands, that were trained in and practiced Gestalt therapy. After conducting the interviews, the derived data were analyzed by using discourse analysis. The material was analyzed under three categories, namely identity, process and power. Furthermore, the analysis included the author’s perspective on the themes that rose, as a client of Gestalt therapy. After the analysis, Gestalt therapy offered many similarities with the feminist theories in question, and opened up the possibility of Gestalt therapy functioning as a base to insert feminist theories in the practice of psychology.