Topic > Organizational Development and Leadership Program

The Gestalt Consulting journey has proven to be very insightful and enlightening. I initially feared that I would not be able to apply the Gestalt learning style to my professional repertoire in organizational development (OD). However, the result was exactly the opposite and Gestalt was indeed a useful OD tool acquired. What amazed me most was the chemistry and relevance to the skill I was most motivated to strengthen, which was self-use. Concepts such as the paradoxical theory of change, the cycle of experience, the development of themes and polarities, and unity of work all incorporate the use of self as a sufficient way to pay attention to and selectively share observations about what is happening in another person, a group and an organization. Furthermore, these concepts have been used to illuminate the path through resistance. According to Carlson and Sklarew (1995), “the work is grounded in a whole system and multiple levels of systemic perspective, paradoxical theory of change, and appreciation for the power of phenomenological experience.” .” (page 3). During the class sessions we were introduced to the levels of the system perspective. These include: intrapersonal, interpersonal, dyad or triad, and group level. These levels are defined by their boundaries. For example, the boundary in an interpersonal system is an individual exchanging with another individual and it is essential to notice the exchange between the two. In my first case study I was able to illustrate the level of the system that I observed which was an interpersonal system between me and my colleague Angelo Martez. There was a boundary between me and him and communication proved essential to making the exchange. Carlson and Sklarew (1995) also state that...... half of the article......tion itself. The most significant observation of Gestalt counseling for me is that the process allows and requires the use of both hemispheres of the brain. Observations can be made and interpreted intellectually, however such observations can also be creatively illustrated to provide a visual representation. Perhaps there can be a polarity framed in reference to my learning journey through Gestalt: “I observe that through my learning I have been able to combine intellect with creativity just as two irrelevant colors can combine to introduce a beautiful new color. Works Cited Nevis, E. C. ( 1987). Organizational Consulting: A Gestalt Approach. New York, NY: Gardner Press Sklarew, N. & Carlson. (1995). ODL 530G: Gestalt Counseling Skills. [Class handout]. Organizational Development and Leadership Program, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Georgia, United States.