In this therapy demo, a demo volunteer engages in a creative exploration of subpersonalities and ancestral wounds. What begins as the expression of inner constructs of the habitual self evolves into a powerful empty-chair dialogue with his great-grandfather, where unspoken grief, anger, and longing come to light. At times, this dynamic session resembles psychosynthesis, but the repair with his great-grandfather is at the heart of the session.
Through this process, the ancestral wound is revealed—not as an abstract concept, but as a living field shaping the client’s body, emotions, and sense of self. As hidden voices are expressed and witnessed, protection gives way to vulnerability, and ancestral pain transforms into clarity and wisdom.
This session shows how Gestalt therapy can bring awareness and healing to what was left unfinished by our ancestors, opening a path toward integration, authentic self-contact, and freedom across generations.
The full episode can be heard exclusively on Patreon: patreon.com/TheAwakenedTherapist
Disclaimer: This is a real demonstration with a volunteer, shared for educational and inspirational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional therapy. Listener discretion is advised due to emotionally intense content.
Harmony Kwiker, MA, is a psychotherapist, author, educator, and founder of the Institute for Spiritual Alignment. She serves as lead Gestalt faculty in Naropa University’s Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counseling program and is the author of The Awakened Therapist, Holistic Co-Regulation, Align, and Reveal. Through her books, trainings, and The Awakened Therapist Podcast, Harmony guides therapists and healers to embody awake awareness, attune to subtle energy, and hold a sacred container where authentic transformation can emerge. Learn more: https://awakenedtherapist.com/