What is a Gestalt Soul Care Mentor?
A Gestalt Soul Care Mentor is a deeply grounded practitioner who has undergone extensive personal and professional development in Gestalt-based spiritual and emotional care. Drawing on the rich framework of Gestalt theory, presence-based practice, and holistic spiritual integration, a Mentor supports others in awakening to their authentic self through embodied awareness, empathy, and relational presence.
Gestalt Soul Care Mentors are not only trained to offer one-on-one soul care sessions, but are also empowered to teach, guide, and mentor others on this transformational path.
The journey to becoming a Gestalt Soul Care Mentor begins with immersive coursework designed to develop embodied presence, spiritual grounding, and relational skill. Each course builds upon the last, creating a transformative path of personal and professional formation.
After each course, students will engage in a reflective feedback session to affirm what is well-developed and identify areas needing further growth before moving forward in the training process.
The required courses include:
Gestalt Soul Care Introductory Course: This course offers a foundational introduction to the healing processes and unique approaches of Gestalt Soul Care, inviting participants into a deeply transformative journey of personal growth and integration. Note: This course is not required to be taken first.
Grounding Basics Course: This program is designed to create well-formed, self-aware helping professionals who integrate Gestalt principles in a way that fosters deeper presence, transformation, and holistic accompaniment. There are pre-requisites for this course.
Gestalt Principles Application: Candidate eligibility determined during pre-registration process.
- Pedagogy and study of Gestalt Theory
- Learn and metabolize basic Gestalt Principles; know when and how to apply
- Practice using theoretical approaches
- Concluding with exam
Presence Development:
- Engaging in an expositional series of embodied and integrated practices: being present in the moment, embodied authenticity, empathic development, grounding techniques, capacity for vulnerability and humility.
- Successfully access internal non-anxious grounding in their Holy One .
- Become able to maintain groundedness no matter what.
- Practice with awareness focus on Presence.
- Concluding with exam.
Candidacy Development:
Once all required courses are completed, students will identify a willing individual to receive Gestalt Soul Care and begin offering care under supervision. They will participate in monthly, paid ($30) Supervision sessions to support their growth and development. When both the student and their mentor agree the student is ready, they will become eligible for two Observation and Evaluation Sessions, overseen by a committee from the Pathways Transformational Network.
- Observation/Evaluation Sessions:
- Session 1: This session provides the student with thoughtful, constructive feedback focused on identifying strengths, as well as areas for continued growth and development—also known as their "growing edges."
- Session 2: In this concluding session, the student’s skill level is assessed to determine whether they have successfully integrated the core principles and practices required to complete the Grounding Level of Gestalt Soul Care training.
Presentation of Certification and Commencement Celebration:
Participants who complete all program requirements will receive Gestalt Soul Care Mentor's Certificate.
Community Involvement/Continued Education:
Ongoing participation in Gestalt Soul Care Community Gatherings is encouraged to support continued skill development, meaningful fellowship, and sustained connection.
- Quarterly Zoom Topic Gatherings are offered to deepen understanding, expand perspective, and provide ongoing education.
- Annual In-Person Gatherings offer a rich opportunity for embodied presence, reflection, and community celebration.
- Graduates are also invited to further their journey of growth and training through The Pathways Transformational Network and SIIMDA Soul Care for advanced studies and skill refinement.