Which of the following is a goal of Gestalt therapy?

• A. To analyze dreams to uncover unconscious conflicts
• B. To maintain the client's dependency on guidance
• C. To develop coping skills by avoiding responsibility
• D. To help the client develop a self-support system, replace current support, be more aware of here and now, recognize denied parts of self, and assume ownership

Answer: (D)

Gestalt therapy centers on awareness of the present moment and taking responsibility for one’s experience. Its goals include helping the client build a self-support system instead of relying on others for guidance, being more attuned to what is happening here and now, and recognizing parts of the self that have been denied or disowned so they can be owned and reintegrated. By focusing on direct contact with current thoughts, feelings, and sensations and encouraging ownership of those experiences, individuals move toward greater autonomy and wholeness. Dreams and unconscious conflicts belong more to psychodynamic approaches, while aiming to keep a person dependent on others or avoiding responsibility conflicts with the gestalt emphasis on self-directed growth.