Dr Steve Vinay Gunther
PhD (Social Ecology) · MSc (Mental Health) · MA (Gestalt Therapy) · EAGT · CDAA
Fifty years of study in psychotherapy. Forty years in private practice with individuals, couples and families. Founder of the Northern Rivers Gestalt Institute, professor of Transpersonal Psychology, and author of The Woman In Your Life.
An optimist tempered by the shadow.
I am by nature an optimist and an adventurer. I like to believe things will go well, and that people are basically well intentioned.
As I have learned more about myself, this stance has been tempered with an appreciation of what my wife and I call The Unvirtues — our underbelly, the shadow, the disowned parts of self that can undermine the best of intentions. I am interested in this therapeutically, as it brings a more holistic approach to relationship, and personally, as it brings me more depth.
- Gestalt therapy
- Family therapy
- Career coaching
- Narrative therapy
- Family Constellations
- NLP, somatic and relational therapy
- PhD — Social Ecology
- MSc — Mental Health
- MA — Gestalt Therapy
- European Association of Gestalt Therapy (EAGT)
- Career Development Association of Australia (CDAA)
Founded the Northern Rivers Gestalt Institute — a four-year postgraduate program registered with the education department. Directed the program for 17 years, responsible for curriculum, supervision, training and assessment.
A unique process integrating several approaches in one focused session, helping people find their ideal career path.
Regular teaching in the US, Mexico, China and Japan. Specialised in psychotherapy and spirituality. Developed the Masters program in Transpersonal Psychology at Ryokan College.
The Woman In Your Life — A Man’s Guide to a Happy Relationship. A bestselling book of advice for men about relationships with women.
Five grown children (including two step children) and four grandchildren. Fascinated by systems theory and cybernetics.
A background that also includes theatre and clowning, street theatre, community activism, meditation practice — and businesses ranging from a vegetarian cafe to a sign-writing studio to a food co-op.
In the words of those who have worked with Steve.
“I have known Steve for over a decade and have called on him in my darkest hours to help see my world and the people in it more clearly. Steve offers incredible presence, perception and therapeutic skills which are rare.”
“What impressed me was his ability to stay focused on my process as well as the content I brought. He entered the work real and grounded — a skill so practiced that it seems not to be there at all. I recommend him unreservedly.”
“Steve lives what he teaches. He is sharp at spotting the right figure, yet very much in the “allowing” state to stop pushing when appropriate. Compassionate, with a healthy psychological boundary — authoritative, yet warm.”
“Steve has supported and enabled me to move through the most profound times of change and growth. His guidance opens you to the truth of your feelings without judgement. When you are ready to honestly address your part in the world, here is the most gifted of guides.”
“Calm, gentle and insightful. I was regularly surprised at how much I enjoyed our sessions. He provided a high degree of confidence in his method and is a clearly professional practitioner.”
Considering therapy, supervision or training? Reach out.