Integrating Gestalt Therapy When Working with Children

Workshop Introduction

Gestalt Theory emphasises that the whole of anything is greater than the sum of its parts. The word Gestalt means “whole, pattern or form” and it views a person as a totality of mind, body, emotions and spirit. 

The Integrating Gestalt Therapy When Working with Children workshop explores the approach of being present and self-aware and how that can be used to support the emotional well-being of children and adolescents in a way that encourages emotional resilience and healthy expression.

The workshop introduces key Gestalt Therapy concepts such as awareness, relationships, play-based interventions, and boundary setting, providing practical techniques that can be applied in everyday interactions with children.

Whether you are a parent, teacher, caregiver, mental health professional, or simply someone interested in understanding children’s emotional development, this workshop offers valuable insights and tools for building stronger connections and supporting children effectively.

This workshop simplifies the complex concepts behind Gestalt Therapy and will help you build practical tools to provide emotional support to children and adolescents.  

Overview

Introduction and definition of Gestalt Theory

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the workshop participants will:

• Understand basic concepts from Gestalt that can be used in counselling adolescents and children. 
• Gain practical tools which can be included in work with the emotional support of children and adolescents. 
• Be able to use Gestalt theory to view a child and adolescent as a whole person within the dynamic systems in which they are growing up.  

Certification

This CPD workshop has been designed for psychologists and registered counsellors. It also has value for educators, social workers and other mental health practitioners working with children. Once you have completed the course, you will receive a digital certificate of completion. 

The certificate serves as evidence of your new skills and knowledge and can be used to demonstrate your commitment to professional development. 

Attend a live online session, or watch the recording, and complete an online reading and assessment. 

HPCSA registered professionals will receive 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] upon successful completion of the workshop.

Dates and Registration

Class of 2026: on demand

Participants can register at any time and move through the workshop content. Watch the live workshop recording and complete the online journal articles and multiple-choice questionnaire.

NOTE: HPCSA registered professionals who want to claim 3 CPD points [3 CEU Continuing Education Units points] need to complete the online assessment within 5 days after registering.

Workshop Presenter

Dr Serahni Symington is a registered counsellor with HPCSA under the Psychology Board. She enjoys working from a Gestalt Perspective, but more so works holistically with people from all walks of life. 

Serahni lectures part-time and facilitates modules in Family Counselling, Crisis and Trauma Counselling, and Research Supervision as well as supervises counsellors in training for HPSCA. 

FAQs

The Team

The SACAP Global team brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience across various disciplines. Our expert short course developers and dedicated support team are passionate about sharing their insights to help you get the most out of your online learning journey.