by Wendy Dinnerstein, EGCM®
Introduction: Gestalt coaching has shown me that embracing authenticity leads to fulfillment. It helps uncover concealed parts of ourselves and catalyzes authenticity. My equine partners also provide valuable insights into self-awareness.
Significance: Research conducted by psychologists has indicated that embodying authenticity plays a crucial role in promoting well-being. Individuals who demonstrate authenticity tend to experience higher levels of happiness, increased self-esteem, and greater satisfaction in their interpersonal relationships.
Purpose: Through the exploration of Gestalt Coaching, clients have the opportunity to uncover previously unknown aspects of themselves that may have been obscured by past trauma or negative experiences. This process can lead to living a life that is true to one’s authentic self, as originally designed, and promotes greater well-being. My own experience of authenticity, gained through Gestalt training, has allowed me to observe and witness consistent positive results. As a result, I believe it is important to communicate that this method of processing is both accessible and valuable.
Setting and participants: I had the opportunity to observe these results in multiple settings. One setting was a round corral in the presence of my teacher and mentor, Melisa Pearse, as well as other students, in her covered area with her healing herd. Another setting involved other students being coached, including myself, in the same location under the mentor’s supervision. Finally, I observed these results at my facility in Medina, Texas, in a covered arena with a round corral and my healing herd. In total, there were fourteen clients with two different Coaches in two different retreats at different times. These experiences have reinforced my belief that Gestalt is the path to authenticity and that horses, by nature, embody authenticity, making them ideal for Gestalt work with no prior training required.
Capstone Description/ Process: This abstract details my journey in overcoming cognitive dissonance through Gestalt as an Equine Gestalt Coach. I’ve learned that achieving authenticity involves becoming aware of all aspects of the self, leading to wholeness. Through active participation in experiments and individual sessions, clients have gained significant benefits. Notably, horses respond positively to clients embodying their authentic selves.
Result/Impact: The concept of authenticity involves staying true to oneself. Embracing authenticity is linked to positive outcomes such as improved well-being and stronger relationships. Societal pressures can pull us away from our true selves, but Gestalt Coaching can help us reconnect with our core values, bringing greater self-awareness and happiness.
Capstone Evaluation: In this capstone evaluation, we used a systematic observation approach consisting of self-assessment and observing classmates during practical training. Notable improvements included better posture, increased eye contact, and adjustments in vocal delivery. Participants also showed heightened awareness of their energy levels and proactive approach to addressing emotions. Rapid transformations were observed during retreats, leading to increased confidence and a more positive demeanor. These changes were confirmed by the participants and were based on a study led by Jaclyn and G. Thomas Manzone.
Future Directions: I am keen to gather feedback from my clients through a post-session questionnaire to ascertain whether they perceive a correlation between authenticity and their Gestalt sessions. I am interested in understanding whether they feel a heightened sense of self and improved well-being as a result of their Gestalt sessions. Surveying the conclusion of their session and again four months later may provide valuable insights into the relationship between authenticity and Gestalt therapy.
Acknowledgments: I want to thank Melisa Pearse for creating the Equine Gestalt Coaching Method program and training others in her method. I am also grateful to Evie Rose of Voices from Scars for including me in her retreat and for her unique style of Gestalt coaching. Lastly, I want to thank Jen Field of Warrior Nation for her intuitive nature with clients and horses.
References:
Google: definition of Authenticity: Gestalt theory, Gestalt and Authenticity
Manzione, J., Manzione, G.T., (2017). Quantifying the Outcomes of the Equine Gestalt Coaching Method 2017. Boulder, CO: https://www.xanthuscenter.com
Pearce, M. (2019). What the Heck is Gestalt? Elizabeth, CO, Touched by a Horse, Inc