Final answer:
In Gestalt Therapy, when a person feels unable to move forward, it is known as a block or impasse, which is similar to the concept of a mental set in problem-solving.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Gestalt Therapy, when the therapist noted that Mary was stuck at a point, it is known as a block or impasse. This concept is central to Gestalt Therapy, which emphasizes the holistic view of the self and the importance of context in understanding behavior.
An impasse occurs when a person is unable to move forward or feels stuck in a particular emotional or psychological state. An example that illustrates a similar concept is that of a person trying to exit a room using a locked door they are accustomed to, even though other doors are open.
This is referred to as a mental set, demonstrating the challenge of persisting with an approach that worked in the past but is not effective in the present situation.