Which feature characterizes the Gestalt Therapy 'Internal Dialogue Exercise'?

• A. The therapist uses directive questioning to guide the client.
• B. The therapist remains emotionally distant.
• C. The therapist joins with the client in discussion, in the same manner as the client.
• D. The therapist uses dream interpretation.

Answer: (C)

In Gestalt therapy, the therapist participates as an equal partner in the client’s process. In the Internal Dialogue Exercise, the therapist joins the client in the discussion, adopting the same mode of interaction and effectively taking on roles or voices within the dialogue. This creates a concrete, here-and-now exchange where inner parts of the self are externalized and explored through direct contact. By staying actively involved rather than guiding with questions from a distance or interpreting dreams, the therapist helps the client experience the pull between competing aspects of self and move toward integration. Dream interpretation, or maintaining emotional distance, aren’t what characterizes this exercise; the defining feature is the therapist’s collaborative participation in the dialogue.