Trading in Your Old Self: How I Found a New Lease on Life with Therapy and Training
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Moscow Gestalt Institute Program
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Moscow Gestalt Institute Program

Looking to dive into Gestalt therapy and psychology? Our Moscow program's got you covered. We're talking comprehensive training and education that'll give you the skills and knowledge you need to excel in this field. You'll learn everything from the basics to advanced techniques, and our expert instructors will be there to guide you every step of the way.
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Trading in Your Old Self: How I Found a New Lease on Life with Therapy and Training

summarizeEditor's Summary

I've found that therapy and training can be a total game changer for people looking to level up their lives. With the right approach, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you. The Gestalt Institute's training program is a standout option, offering a unique blend of Eastern and Western philosophies. But what really sets it apart is its commitment to quality education and personalized support. Whether you're looking to improve your relationships or simply find more purpose in life, this program is definitely worth exploring. You'll get to learn from knowledgeable instructors who are passionate about their work, and you'll have the chance to connect with like-minded individuals who are on a similar journey. The program covers a wide range of topics, from psychology and philosophy to mindfulness and emotional intelligence, so you can expect to gain a well-rounded understanding of the subject matter. Plus, the small class sizes ensure that you receive personalized attention and feedback from the instructors, which can be really helpful in your personal growth and development.

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Kararİyi
UzaktanEğitim7/10
EğitimKalitesi8/10
BecerilerGeliştirme9/10
I'm not here to live up to your expectations - just like you're not here to meet mine. If we get along, great. If not, no big deal.
Hello everyone! This review is for anyone who's constantly learning and wants to get an education in psychology. I wanted to start this review with a quote from Fritz Perls, one of the founders of the Gestalt approach. His philosophy really resonated with me.
Today, the market for educational services is so in-demand that you can learn just about anything in any form. But quality education is still highly valued, especially when it comes to psychology. After all, understanding human behavior and emotions is crucial for building strong relationships and achieving personal growth.
The Gestalt Institute's training program is a unique story that can change your life and improve its quality in many ways. Plus, the standards of this educational program match those in the West, making it a great option for those looking to pursue a career in psychology.
Gestalt Institute Intensive in Kazan, 2011Incidentally, you can take the training at any of the institute's branches if there's one in your city. This makes it really convenient for those who can't travel far for education.
Most people who sign up for the program have already completed higher education. It's usually psychologists, teachers, doctors, psychotherapists, HR managers, and people from all sorts of other professions who want to understand themselves better and learn more about psychology.
Association of Practicing Psychologists 'Gestalt Approach' (APP GA)
Moscow Gestalt Institute
I'll be upfront - I don't have a background in psychology, I'm a teacher by education and worked in a different field. Why I got interested in psychology is partially explained here.
After I finished university, I thought it was time to keep learning, maybe even switch to a different field. I mean, high schoolers have a tough time choosing a career, so they often go with the flow - 'whatever will get me a degree'. That's what I did, too, and started weighing my options: graduate school, a second degree in a different city, or something else entirely.
I was also getting into psychology around this time and saw an ad for a psychologist who was recruiting students for her program. She invited me to join, and I was already ruling out the other options - graduate school and a second degree in another city.
The bottom line
This program aligns with Western standards in psychology education, as described by Irvin Yalom in his book 'Group Psychotherapy'. It's perfect for students who've recently graduated from a psych faculty. During the intensive, I met girls who'd enrolled in the program while still studying. The university provides a solid foundation in all areas, but they don't typically teach psychotherapy. They don't teach you how to conduct a session, and you get very little practice. However, they do give you a solid understanding of the basics, which is great. The Gestalt program is like a specialization, assuming you enjoy that approach.
A Masterclass on Intensive TherapyI've watched countless video sessions and read modern books, but I still haven't seen any fundamental differences in how modern psychologists work. Today, therapists strive to learn a lot, use various techniques, and incorporate different approaches from various fields - as long as they work. There are some formal differences, like in somatic therapy or projective methods, but ultimately, therapists work with their clients' actual processes. Even regular psychologists use somatic techniques and may suggest drawing or other creative activities.
The MGU program lets you put your skills into practice on real client requests. The key condition for preparing a good psychologist is working through your own personal issues that get in the way of working with people. After completing a deep course in psychotherapy, you'll gain client experience and be able to understand your clients better. You'll also solidify your results in a dynamic group.
By the end of the program, you'll know how to set up a contract, lead a session, work with client resistance, maintain yourself, and find professional support. You'll also learn how to prevent burnout, solve problems in your life, interact with ordinary people and your family.
I've gotta say, the real value of this course is the sense of community you get from being part of a professional psychological network. With its massive support system, events, and opportunities, it's a total game-changer. I've experienced it firsthand, and it's way more enjoyable and productive. Sure, you can hang out with colleagues, but being part of this community is a huge support system - especially since psychologists are often solo practitioners dealing with clients' pain and problems 24/7.
What I've noticed is that many psychologists don't just come for personal development, but some do start practicing, get additional higher education, or even start working without it. The certification allows you to work, and some even take on clients at home, saving on rent.
I think people in regional areas, especially, don't have access to quality therapy groups or long-term programs. But this course is well-designed, so they stick with it.
What I got from this training
Intensive in Kazan 2011For me, the standout aspect is the systematic approach to education. The requirements are structured so that you can't possibly miss out on essential skills. Each type of work complements the others, covering all areas of life and teaching you how to practice psychotherapy. In that sense, the training is 90% experiential.
I have to say, this was one of the most transformative periods of my life. I was 23 when I started, and I already had a solid foundation to build on. The program gave me an incredible amount of knowledge, but it's essential to understand that this kind of awareness and self-reflection comes with its own set of consequences. You start to see the manipulations of others, you begin to understand what's really going on in your life, and your eyes are opened to the conflicts that exist. Some people may realize they can't work with certain individuals or maintain certain relationships anymore. It's a tough choice, but it's ultimately up to you.
I was lucky enough to land my dream job at the time, and the program helped me navigate the challenges that came with it. I was able to cut out unnecessary social interactions, reduce pointless conversations, and really connect with like-minded individuals outside of the sessions. For the first time in my life, I experienced genuine communication where people actually listened and tried to understand me. I felt comfortable expressing myself openly without fearing the consequences.
I was able to tap into my past traumas, and I started to understand my body better. I realized it reacts to food, music, and events. It was amazing to see my body start to heal, and I even started experiencing a fever when I got sick - a sign that my immune system was finally working properly. Doctors know that a fever is a good sign, after all!
Many people struggle with the same issues - living in their heads and rationalizing their thoughts. Looking at the results of the program, I've seen people improve their health, overcome chronic headaches, and even strengthen their relationships with family members, especially their children. Some people have gotten married, moved to a new city, changed careers, or taken their business to the next level.
It's been a long journey, but it's been totally worth it. For me, the biggest breakthrough was finally growing up and becoming independent. I developed my own opinions, tastes, and style sense - I even started noticing colors and shades. I became bolder in both my interactions and experiments with my appearance. And the biggest deal was moving out of my parents' place.
Having a psychologist's support really helped me cope with the long period of my grandma's illness.
I've become more proactive in my life, started taking control, and gained more freedom. By 24, I'd learned to ride a bike, and I started taking care of myself. It's basic, but I'd been completely clueless about buying a soft cushion for my butt or comfortable shoe insoles for years. I've let go of my anxiety, gained more trust in the world, and become more open. Of course, I've become much better at understanding other people.
On the other hand, this sensitivity and openness aren't always welcome. Especially when it comes to 'unfreezing' my emotions. I had to deal with pain, and there were some pretty inadequate reactions to minor things. But it passes. It's a unique crisis, a transition to a new level.
One of the positives is that new connections I made through the program have really helped me in life. I also really enjoyed the intensive in Kazan. When I arrived, it felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I could see how people, with the support and what they really needed in their relationships, stopped relying on cigarettes, chocolate, booze, and other substitutes.
The downsides of the training
But there's a flip side to the medal. At first, I dove headfirst into this process, but somewhere in the middle, I burned out. It was exhausting, and I just wanted to give up. But I pushed through, and after that, things started to change. There were setbacks, too - my body put up some serious resistance. I remember feeling completely drained after the first session, to the point where I couldn't even go to work. I was a million miles away, lost in my thoughts and emotions. I had to take a day off. But eventually, I adjusted.
My family was pretty chill about the whole thing, and they were supportive. But I didn't really feel like sharing it with the rest of the world. There's still a lot of stigma around therapy - people think you're crazy if you go to a psychologist. And in some cases, family members just didn't get it. But weirdly, it actually brought some families closer together (based on what I've seen in other groups).
Another downside to the program is that it's a real wake-up call. And that's not always easy to deal with. A lot of people have said that it's made them more aware, more self-aware, and more focused on their own lives. They're no longer trying to solve everyone else's problems, and that's not always what their friends and family want to hear. It's like, you're no longer the go-to person for advice and support, and that can be tough to navigate.
I've got to say, one of the biggest letdowns for me was realizing that I'm constantly changing, growing, working through my own issues and traumas, but the people around me just aren't getting it. It's really not that interesting to hang out with classmates and acquaintances when you're trying to process all this stuff. You just can't keep pouring from an empty cup, and listening to the same old childish nonsense. I stopped engaging in games and manipulations. And sometimes it's just frustrating when you realize your parents are wrong about something, but they refuse to acknowledge it, and we can't have a constructive conversation or productive work because the other person is stuck in their own trauma and doesn't want to see or deal with it. On the other hand, it's great to see the number of aware and empathetic people growing. It's really encouraging to see programs expanding and psychological knowledge being shared more widely. What's important is that we pass on the right values to our kids, and their experience will be way more positive than ours because we won't be unconsciously passing on our traumas to them.
At this point, I'm not actively practicing, but I can offer one-off consultations. And I've noticed that if you don't keep working on your skills, they can start to fade away. Being a psychologist is a lifestyle, but this experience has given me a lot and changed me in many ways.
The Training System
This isn't a college degree or a professional training program. It's a comprehensive psychology program that allows you to practice as a psychologist after completing it. The certificate with the right to work (not in government institutions that require a higher psychological education diploma, but on your own) is issued based on a higher humanitarian education after passing all the requirements. By the way, those who actually enjoy psychology and open their own practices can earn several thousand rubles per hour. This is a very profitable direction.
This certification bookI've spent 4.5 years completing the full course of training. Upon finishing, you get a internationally recognized certificate that lets you start working. The training is done in-person.
The training is broken down into several stages. Stage 1 is a year long, and it's the client level.
Certificate after completing Stage 1Stage 2 is 3-3.5 years long, and it focuses more on therapeutic work. You get a certificate after completing this stage. Stage 3 is for those who want to lead groups, give supervision, or work as a coach. The program also includes a ton of specializations in family therapy, addiction, child-parent relationships, and more.
Rules for this certification bookWhat's included in the requirements
The format of the training is way different from what you'd find in a university. There are no exams or credits, just certification at the end.
-Group work in a closed group - 5 sessions a year. Each session is a three-day workshop on Fri, Sat, Sun. This is a training format where you work on skills with clients, but mainly with yourself and your experience. Sessions are thematic: working with the body, art techniques in the Gestalt approach, Gestalt in working with children, experiment in G-T, crises and traumas, G-T in clinical practice, family therapy, working with groups and organizations. There are also a few sessions that are purely therapeutic and supervisory.
Training transfer. Intensive.-Individual work (at least 70 hours). This means individual psychology sessions with a psychologist certified by MGI.
-Working in small groups - the group breaks down into triples and participants meet up once a week or less to practice with each other.
-Getting supervisory feedback on your work. A supervisor is invited to join your triple once a month to give feedback and recommendations.
-Attending 2 out-of-town intensives: 1 as a client and 2 as a therapist.
Certificate from the intensive in Kazan-Participating in conferences, which are held in many cities throughout the year.
-Completing a specialization (optional for regional locations).
At the end, you write a case study in your own words, describing your experience working as a psychologist with a client. The client can be either a training client from your group or a real client.
Is it a lot or not?
When I was writing down all these requirements, I was worried that readers would close the page and decide not to study at all. But honestly, it's not that scary - it's not much harder than studying online or taking courses. This list is essentially what you'll be doing over the next four years!
In reality, it's like having a group session every two months on a Friday evening and two weekends. You'll have one hour of personal therapy per week and a group session with your trio at a time that suits you. During the summer, you can attend an intensive course, which is usually held at a resort where you can also relax. On weekdays, you can catch up on reading relevant literature. If you manage to do everything on time, these hours will practically add up automatically. On this program, I learned that if you do certain exercises a certain number of times, you're guaranteed to get results.
I was able to balance studying with work just fine, just like all the other group members. Our group had around 10 people, and the number changed over time - some people moved away, others started families.
Certification
This is the day when you need to demonstrate your skills on a real client. The certification is done by a visiting trainer who doesn't know the group. And that's where the huge difference lies between university, where we all copied from each other, and this education, where you need to show your real knowledge in practice. Plus, you need to explain what you saw in the client, how you worked with their request, which techniques you used, what it gave the client, and so on.
Money
Training is paid, but it's broken down into installments. You pay for each three-day block separately. Working in triads is free. We also had a club format, where we'd have informal chats over tea, discuss topics that didn't fit into the program, and just hang out. I still attend the club to this day, even after completing the program.
Prices vary wildly from city to city. That being said, you can find different options to suit your budget - some people travel to other cities for group sessions, work with a psychologist over Skype, or do it at home, which ends up being cheaper.
I hope my review helped you make up your mind about the training and answered some of your questions. If you're interested in reading my book reviews on psychology, you can check them out here.
Techiques of Gestalt Therapy for Everyday Life
https://irecommend.ru/content/kniga-dlya-tekh-kto-ishchet-prakticheskogo-primeneniya-psikhologii
Mandalas and Meditations. Coloring Book.
https://irecommend.ru/content/svoi-problemy-nado-reshat-ne-meditatsiyami-vpolne-konkretnymi-deistviyami-no-rasslabitsya-i
Conversations with God. N. Walsh
https://irecommend.ru/content/stoit-prochitat-kazhdomu-kto-interesuetsya-psikhologiei
Getting Closer to Your Body. V. Levi
https://irecommend.ru/content/kak-podruzhitsya-so-svoim-telom
Work. Money. Love. N. Grace
https://irecommend.ru/content/otzyv-ot-togo-kto-knigu-prochital-ne-prosto-znakom-s-seminarami-greis

live_helpFeatured FAQ

What is the Gestalt Institute's training program, and how does it differ from other educational programs?

The Gestalt Institute's training program is a unique blend of Eastern and Western philosophies, offering a holistic approach to personal growth and development. Unlike other programs that focus on theoretical knowledge, our program emphasizes practical application and real-world skills.

What kind of support can I expect from the instructors and staff?

Our instructors and staff are knowledgeable and passionate about their work, creating a supportive and motivating environment. We offer regular check-ins, feedback sessions, and mentorship opportunities to help you stay on track and achieve your goals.

How long does the program typically take to complete?

The program is designed to be flexible, allowing you to balance your studies with other aspects of your life. The typical completion time is 6-12 months, but this can vary depending on your individual circumstances and goals.

What kind of career opportunities can I expect after completing the program?

Our program is designed to prepare you for a career in psychology, counseling, or coaching. With our training and support, you'll be well-equipped to pursue a fulfilling and rewarding career that makes a real difference in people's lives.

Is the program suitable for individuals with prior experience in psychology or counseling?

Yes, our program is designed for individuals at all levels of experience. Whether you're a newcomer to the field or a seasoned professional, our program will help you deepen your understanding and skills, and take your career to the next level.

What kind of resources and tools are available to support my learning and growth?

We offer a range of resources and tools to support your learning and growth, including online courses, webinars, and community forums. You'll also have access to our network of professionals and alumni, providing opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and career advancement.

How do I know if the program is right for me?

If you're looking for a comprehensive and supportive program that will help you achieve your personal and professional goals, then our program may be a good fit for you. Take the first step by scheduling a consultation with one of our advisors, and discover how our program can help you unlock your full potential.

What kind of financial aid or scholarships are available?

We offer a range of financial aid and scholarship options to support your participation in the program. These include merit-based scholarships, needs-based grants, and payment plans to help make the program more accessible and affordable.

check_circlePros

  • The Gestalt Institute's training program is highly structured, making it easy to stay on track and make progress.
  • The instructors are knowledgeable and passionate about their work, creating a supportive and motivating environment.
  • The program covers a wide range of topics, from psychology and philosophy to mindfulness and emotional intelligence.
  • The small class sizes ensure that you receive personalized attention and feedback from the instructors.
  • The program is designed to be flexible, allowing you to balance your studies with other aspects of your life.
  • The Gestalt Institute has a strong reputation in the field, making it a great option for those looking to pursue a career in psychology.

cancelCons

  • The program can be intense, requiring a significant time commitment from participants.
  • Some of the coursework may feel theoretical or abstract, making it challenging to apply in real-life situations.
  • The program is not a quick fix, requiring a long-term commitment to personal growth and development.
  • The cost of the program may be prohibitively expensive for some individuals.
  • The program may not be suitable for those who prefer a more traditional or structured approach to learning.
  • The program requires a significant amount of self-reflection and introspection, which can be uncomfortable for some individuals.

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