Gestalt Awareness Training and Role

Ms. Jessica Saliba Thorne is a Gestalt Psychotherapist at Willingness, delivering client-centred support through Gestalt Awareness Training. She focuses on fostering self-awareness and emotional resilience by applying Gestalt Awareness Training techniques in her clinical practice. Her work promotes healthy relational patterns and personal insight, which are central aims of Gestalt Awareness Training interventions. At Willingness, Jessica plays an important role in enhancing psychological well-being through structured Gestalt Awareness Training sessions.

Academic Background and Psychotherapy Interest

Jessica earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Malta in a supportive environment. Soon after she began working in the mental health field, which set off an initial interest in psychotherapy. She completed her Master’s in Gestalt Psychotherapy in a supportive environment. Through the course, she has had the opportunity to work with various psychological issues, giving her the opportunity to explore her interests further. Jessica has since gained further experience in working with eating disorders, sexual assault, and trauma.

Research and Advocacy Work

Jessica is also interested in the link between bullying and the development of mental health issues, including psychological trauma. In 2021, Jessica started volunteering with bBrave, Malta’s only NGO which deals with bullying. She has been an active council member within the NGO since February 2022.

Therapeutic Values in Gestalt Awareness Training

Given her interest in working with particular vulnerable groups, Jessica is a firm believer in developing the therapeutic relationship. She believes this builds enough ground from where an individual can start opening up safely. She excels at offering containment and support throughout this process in a supportive environment. Jessica works primarily with adults; however, she also has experience working with children.

Top 5 Benefits of Gestalt Psychotherapy Work

1. Encourages self-awareness and mindfulness by focusing on present experiences and emotional responses.
2. Enhances personal responsibility by helping individuals recognise and own their behaviors and choices.
3. Improves emotional regulation and coping through non-judgmental exploration of unresolved feelings or past conflicts.
4. Strengthens interpersonal relationships by promoting authentic communication and boundary setting.
5. Supports long-term personal growth by aligning actions with values and fostering internal clarity.

Summary of Gestalt Awareness Training

Gestalt Awareness Training offers clients the opportunity to explore their emotions in a safe and reflective space. Through enhanced self-awareness, present-moment focus, and therapist-guided support, individuals learn to better understand their patterns and improve overall mental well-being. This training is particularly effective in deepening personal insight and supporting long-term emotional resilience.