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The Empty Chair Cards Are Inspired by the Gestalt Empty Chair Technique and created by Yasmin Shaheen-Zaffar.
Gestalt is a type of therapy which was developed by Fritz and Laura Perls and others in the 1940’s. Gestalt psychology, is a therapy that takes into account the whole individual and its focus is on the the obstacles which get in the way of the present.
The primary aim of this therapy is to help clients become more aware of what they are experiencing in the present moment. In Gestalt therapy, awareness is seen as the primary mechanism for change.
First before we go further it is important to remember Gestalt therapy can often bring out intense reactions and emotions which may not be suitable for all individuals. This form of therapy may also not be ideal for persons who are already emotional flooded.
The intense emotional responses that can be evoked can be harmful to the client if misused or abused by an inexperienced counsellor or therapist (Melnick et al., 2005).
It is essential for the therapist to judge whether this technique is suitable for their client’s needs.
Unfolding the Journey of the “Empty Chair Cards™”: A Therapist’s Tale
Before I ever realised my calling as a counsellor, trainer, and mentor, I was on a unique adventure: amassing a collection of photographs featuring empty chairs. Today, my collection showcases hundreds of such images! This hobby was initially fuelled by my love for photography and travel.
However, upon introspection, I recognise that a series of bereavements I experienced during my early teenage years played a significant role. The empty chair, I believe, holds a personal significance for me, symbolising loss and absence. Yet also an invitation for new beginnings. I think this is something many of us can relate to in our own different ways.
While training to become a counsellor, I stumbled upon the Gestalt Empty Chair Technique, which immediately resonated with me. The technique was potent and impactful. However, I also found it rather confrontational, almost intrusive. Imagine being asked to engage in a dialogue with an empty chair – it could be perceived as quite… peculiar, weird and a bit strange.
Empathising with the feelings of discomfort or strangeness one might experience while talking to an ’empty chair’, made me reflect on my own journey. I remembered my days of extreme shyness and how far I had come since then.
This led to a pertinent question – could I find a softer, less confrontational method of utilising the Empty Chair Technique? A method that could facilitate discussions about conscious as well as unconscious thoughts without intimidating or frightening clients?
This line of thought led to the creation of ‘The Empty Chair Cards’. Initially, I perceived these cards as a precursor to actual empty chair work. However, I soon realised their inherent power. They served as a gentle yet effective tool to facilitate meaningful conversations and self-reflection. I hope using these cards brings you as much joy and insight as I experienced while creating them. And remember, it’s perfectly fine to find power in unconventional places – even if it’s an empty chair.
Note: The Empty Chair Cards™ are intended to enhance therapeutic work and not replace professional counselling or provide crisis support.
Remember: these are just suggestions. The true potential of ‘The Empty Chair Cards’ lies in the unique ways each therapist and client choose to use them.