Phenomenology of the Self in Gestalt Therapy
Individual and Field in the Therapeutic Situation
Mercurio Albino Macaluso author
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd
Published:3rd Jul '26
Should be back in stock very soon
This paperback is available in another edition too:
- Hardback£171.99(9781041213413)

Phenomenology of the Self in Gestalt Therapy is a compelling and insightful work that offers an original and in-depth perspective on Gestalt theory and practice.
With theoretical rigor and clear exposition, the author guides the reader through the core concepts of the model, such as the self, spontaneity, and contact, skillfully weaving together phenomenological reflection and clinical sensitivity. By revisiting the founding text of Perls, Hefferline, and Goodman in light of contemporary developments, Macaluso makes complex material accessible and reveals its ongoing relevance to therapeutic practice.
This is an essential text for psychotherapists, students, and scholars seeking to engage with the living heart of Gestalt and to deepen their understanding of how its theory can inform and enrich clinical work.
"This book is a tour de force contribution to Gestalt therapy’s theory of self. Macaluso addresses the original theory through a hermeneutic reading and with a critical evaluation of its various refinements over the last 75 years. He not only presents the original theory with a clarity that makes the book essential reading for students and practitioners at every level of experience, but his own critical approach is a significant contribution to gestalt therapy’s clinical phenomenology in its own right."
Dan Bloom, JD, LCSW, president New York Institute for Gestalt Therapy
"Macaluso’s wisdom glides us gracefully and respectfully, with clear and astute prose, through the developmental phases of the language and application of gestalt therapy from beginnings to the present. I might have a different idea, here and there, but I would not hesitate to assign this book to interested students and partitioners. I was drawn in, captivated."
Lynne Jacob, Co-founder, Pacific Gestalt Institute Training analyst, Institute of Contemporary Psychoanalysis
"I want to welcome this book by a senior Gestalt trainer to the recent writings about Self in Gestalt Therapy. He has brought together the original writing by Perls and Goodman with more recent contributions on the subject."
Peter Philippson, MSc, Full Member, New York Institute for Gestalt Therapy, Founder Member, Manchester Gestalt Centre, Honorary Member, GPTI (UK), Founder Member, IG-FEST
ISBN: 9781041213383
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: 280g
130 pages
2nd edition