We are the Gestalt Institute of Ireland.
For almost four years of ongoing war, we have supported a group of Ukrainian therapists living in Ukraine through running a weekly online therapy group, a relational lifeline in the midst of threat and uncertainty.Because these therapists are scattered across different regions, they have never sat together in person as a group, nor with us in physical presence. If possible, we hope to offer them this opportunity: a safe space for embodied connection, grounding, and rest. If we are unable to reach the funding target, all contributions will instead be used to support other group therapists who facilitate or participate in groups affected by conflict.
This is the heart of our Christmas Appeal, BRISEADH CIÚNAS/ BREAKING SILENCE, an ongoing fund dedicated to making such support a reality.
As we approach our Holiday Season (including Christmas, Chanukah, Winter Solstice) and the New Year, many of us enjoy the quiet privilege of peace, while others live amid war and displacement. History reminds us that peace is sustained only when silence in the face of suffering is gently but firmly broken. From early feminist movements to the LGBTQI community’s response to the AIDS crisis, to anti-racist and human rights practices, the phrase “Silence = Death” continues to call us toward clarity, intention, and compassionate action.
This season invites us, as embodied Gestalt practitioners, to reflect on our values and our connection to a fragile global community. As an Institute, we remain committed to staying sensitised to the realities of our shared human family and ecological field. Suffering remains acute not only in Ukraine but also in Gaza, Sudan, and many other regions where communities are experiencing deep loss and dislocation. Given our commitment as an Institute to accompanying persons within suffering fields, we feel called to deepen our capacity to support both those directly affected by war and conflict, and those working on the frontlines of these painful realities.
If you feel moved to contribute, you can do so here. We are aware of the demands on our respective resources at this time of year. This appeal is ongoing so there are ample opportunities to contribute should you ever wish to. Should this gathering or other supports become possible, we will share updates transparently on our website and social media so you can see the impact of your support.
As this year draws to a close, the entire team at the Gestalt Institute of Ireland and I extend our heartfelt gratitude for your presence and support throughout 2025. Whether you joined us in person, online, or held us in mind during moments of both celebration and loss, your presence has helped sustain a community grounded in care, embodied sensitivity, and relational integrity. We hope that you will continue to participate in ways that interest you during 2026.
We wish you a peaceful festive season and a New Year illuminated by hope, for yourself, those you love, and our wider human family.
Guímid séasúr féile síochánta oraibh agus athbhliain faoi shoilsiú dóchais, duit féin, dos na daoine a bhfuil grá agat dóibh, agus dár dteaghlach daonna fairsing.
Billy and the GII Team