Gestalt Therapists in Burnaby, BC

Photo of Jane Louise Beaumont, MA, CCC-S, RCC, CCTP-L2, Counsellor
Jane Louise Beaumont
Counsellor, MA, CCC-S, RCC, CCTP-L2
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
My work is informed by several models; specifically, Emotion Focused Family Therapy, CBT, trauma-informed approaches, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, DBT and RO-DBT.
I deeply appreciate the journey toward health for people struggling with their mental health and the need for caregivers around them to support the process. I honor time with caregivers and enjoy this part of the process. When working with trauma and other mental health challenges I work at the pace of the client, to facilitate healing and growth using a variety of techniques and tools. Another part of my work that I truly enjoy is the supervision aspect with either new clinicians, or experienced clinicians desiring support, recovery from burnout, or rediscovering joy.
My work is informed by several models; specifically, Emotion Focused Family Therapy, CBT, trauma-informed approaches, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, DBT and RO-DBT.
I deeply appreciate the journey toward health for people struggling with their mental health and the need for caregivers around them to support the process. I honor time with caregivers and enjoy this part of the process. When working with trauma and other mental health challenges I work at the pace of the client, to facilitate healing and growth using a variety of techniques and tools. Another part of my work that I truly enjoy is the supervision aspect with either new clinicians, or experienced clinicians desiring support, recovery from burnout, or rediscovering joy.
(343) 314-0095 View (343) 314-0095
Photo of Alicia Claire Graham, RTC, Counsellor
Alicia Claire Graham
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
Accessing support is a radical act of courage—a step towards positive change. At Side by Side Counselling we welcome all experiences and histories, working together to navigate the challenges of life with ease. Drawing on the approaches of transpersonal psychology, somatic modalities, Bowen family systems, Gestalt therapy and person-centered therapy, we aim to find a path of understanding and support that best suits your needs and experiences.
Accessing support is a radical act of courage—a step towards positive change. At Side by Side Counselling we welcome all experiences and histories, working together to navigate the challenges of life with ease. Drawing on the approaches of transpersonal psychology, somatic modalities, Bowen family systems, Gestalt therapy and person-centered therapy, we aim to find a path of understanding and support that best suits your needs and experiences.
(579) 300-3027 View (579) 300-3027
Photo of Christine Michailides, RTC, Counsellor
Christine Michailides
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
Waitlist for new clients
I am also highly skilled and competent in supporting autistic clients and clients with ADHD, apraxia, pathological demand avoidance (or persistent defence for autonomy), gestalt language processing, pragmatic communication differences, sensory processing differences, anxiety, extreme aggression, and selective mutism.
Children and families are often referred to me by other counsellors or health professionals because "the kid refuses to talk or cooperate" or "we tried everything and nothing works". Families often seek my specialties to explore their children's behaviours and challenges from the developmental lens. Neurodivergent children look forward to seeing me because they feel I am safe, and fun, and can easily connect with them in a special and meaningful way. I cannot work with autistic children receiving ABA treatment as it is contraindicative with my strong commitment to neurodiversity affirmative and disability ethical principles.
I am also highly skilled and competent in supporting autistic clients and clients with ADHD, apraxia, pathological demand avoidance (or persistent defence for autonomy), gestalt language processing, pragmatic communication differences, sensory processing differences, anxiety, extreme aggression, and selective mutism.
Children and families are often referred to me by other counsellors or health professionals because "the kid refuses to talk or cooperate" or "we tried everything and nothing works". Families often seek my specialties to explore their children's behaviours and challenges from the developmental lens. Neurodivergent children look forward to seeing me because they feel I am safe, and fun, and can easily connect with them in a special and meaningful way. I cannot work with autistic children receiving ABA treatment as it is contraindicative with my strong commitment to neurodiversity affirmative and disability ethical principles.
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Photo of Apekchha Sapkota, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Apekchha Sapkota
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy (such as combining Person Centered, Emotion Focused, Gestalt, CBT, Solution-Focused therapies) to best fit my clients’ goals and learning styles.
Hello! My name is Apekchha, Apek for short (pronounced uh-peck). I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and I am eager to support you in your counselling journey! I like to take a holistic, inclusive, and collaborative approach to counselling. It is important for me to create a safe and comfortable environment for clients, while allowing for deep and meaningful conversations and reflections to occur in the therapy room. I am passionate about social justice, aim to create a non-judgmental space for individuals, and understand the intersections that exist between the environment and self.
I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy (such as combining Person Centered, Emotion Focused, Gestalt, CBT, Solution-Focused therapies) to best fit my clients’ goals and learning styles.
Hello! My name is Apekchha, Apek for short (pronounced uh-peck). I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) and I am eager to support you in your counselling journey! I like to take a holistic, inclusive, and collaborative approach to counselling. It is important for me to create a safe and comfortable environment for clients, while allowing for deep and meaningful conversations and reflections to occur in the therapy room. I am passionate about social justice, aim to create a non-judgmental space for individuals, and understand the intersections that exist between the environment and self.
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Photo of Kristie De Jong - Phoenix Soars Counseling Inc., MA, CCC, Counsellor
Phoenix Soars Counseling Inc.
Counsellor, MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3J
Other therapeutic approaches that I may use include: CBT, Object Relations, Attachment, Gestalt, Existential and Gottman theories.
Are you finding yourself stuck in life but wanting to soar? Are you longing for freedom? If so, I invite you to visit my website to determine if Phoenix Soars Counselling Services is right for you. With over 9 years of counselling individuals coupled with my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology I have a strong foundation to help you find the inner peace you have been searching for. My primary goal is helping you achieve your personal freedom and destiny using a variety of approaches that will promote your personal growth and healing. www.phoenix-soars.com
Other therapeutic approaches that I may use include: CBT, Object Relations, Attachment, Gestalt, Existential and Gottman theories.
Are you finding yourself stuck in life but wanting to soar? Are you longing for freedom? If so, I invite you to visit my website to determine if Phoenix Soars Counselling Services is right for you. With over 9 years of counselling individuals coupled with my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology I have a strong foundation to help you find the inner peace you have been searching for. My primary goal is helping you achieve your personal freedom and destiny using a variety of approaches that will promote your personal growth and healing. www.phoenix-soars.com
(877) 243-1657 View (877) 243-1657
Photo of Pavneet Sandhu, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Pavneet Sandhu
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
I work with individuals experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, relational issues, and trauma-related stress. I specifically work with young adults, adults, and seniors. I use Person-Centered, Mindfulness-based, Narrative, Gestalt, EMDR and CBT approaches to help my clients to resolve challenging situations that are resulting in their mental health difficulties. I provide a safe space to explore emotional, mental, physical, and social aspects that clients are struggling with. I am aware that each client has their own unique healing process and I consider each client within the context of the culture and values.
I work with individuals experiencing grief, depression, anxiety, relational issues, and trauma-related stress. I specifically work with young adults, adults, and seniors. I use Person-Centered, Mindfulness-based, Narrative, Gestalt, EMDR and CBT approaches to help my clients to resolve challenging situations that are resulting in their mental health difficulties. I provide a safe space to explore emotional, mental, physical, and social aspects that clients are struggling with. I am aware that each client has their own unique healing process and I consider each client within the context of the culture and values.
(548) 800-1800 View (548) 800-1800
Photo of Yael Heffer, RCC, MA, Counsellor
Yael Heffer
Counsellor, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V3J
I use a relational strengths-based approach with elements of mindfulness, gestalt, CBT, social justice & psychodynamic approaches, helping you decrease anxiety, improve your mood & experience more confidence & hope.
We can't say goodbye to a problem until we say hello to it. If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, depressed, alone or hopeless, therapy is a place where it's OK to talk about the hard & confusing things, where you get to tell your truth as you see & feel it. If you experience shame, guilt, disappointment, regret, anger or resentment in your life, counselling gives you an opportunity to understand yourself better without being rushed or judged. Listening to all the parts of you that want to be heard can lead to a sense of relief, better relationships & sleep, feeling more grounded & living a more meaningful & authentic life
I use a relational strengths-based approach with elements of mindfulness, gestalt, CBT, social justice & psychodynamic approaches, helping you decrease anxiety, improve your mood & experience more confidence & hope.
We can't say goodbye to a problem until we say hello to it. If you're feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck, depressed, alone or hopeless, therapy is a place where it's OK to talk about the hard & confusing things, where you get to tell your truth as you see & feel it. If you experience shame, guilt, disappointment, regret, anger or resentment in your life, counselling gives you an opportunity to understand yourself better without being rushed or judged. Listening to all the parts of you that want to be heard can lead to a sense of relief, better relationships & sleep, feeling more grounded & living a more meaningful & authentic life
(672) 906-1347 View (672) 906-1347
Photo of Ina Stockhausen, MTC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ina Stockhausen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MTC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
These are unique and challenging times. We are faced with very real stressors that can trigger lots of anxiety. What is happening right now can also activate past trauma. Financial concerns, health concerns, worrying about loved ones, having to adjust to living with each other...it can bring out the best and the worst of us. If you have already been struggling with disconnect, unresolved conflict and hurt, or unhealthy ways of coping, now is the time to reach out. I have a very compassionate yet practical approach and focus on providing you with tools that will enable you to make positive life and love changes
These are unique and challenging times. We are faced with very real stressors that can trigger lots of anxiety. What is happening right now can also activate past trauma. Financial concerns, health concerns, worrying about loved ones, having to adjust to living with each other...it can bring out the best and the worst of us. If you have already been struggling with disconnect, unresolved conflict and hurt, or unhealthy ways of coping, now is the time to reach out. I have a very compassionate yet practical approach and focus on providing you with tools that will enable you to make positive life and love changes
(866) 362-6711 View (866) 362-6711
Photo of Sharon Jeyakumar, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Sharon Jeyakumar
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your struggles or stuck in old patterns? I am dedicated to empowering you to initiate the changes you seek. As a Registered Psychologist serving clients in Metro Vancouver and virtually across B.C., I offer support in a variety of areas including depression, anxiety, trauma, stress/burnout, self-esteem, loneliness, separation/divorce, spirituality, relationships, cross-cultural challenges, life transitions, and personal growth.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by your struggles or stuck in old patterns? I am dedicated to empowering you to initiate the changes you seek. As a Registered Psychologist serving clients in Metro Vancouver and virtually across B.C., I offer support in a variety of areas including depression, anxiety, trauma, stress/burnout, self-esteem, loneliness, separation/divorce, spirituality, relationships, cross-cultural challenges, life transitions, and personal growth.
(604) 800-2745 View (604) 800-2745
Photo of Shauna Randhawa - Oceanside Psychology Group, PsyD, RPsych, Psychologist
Oceanside Psychology Group
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationships, or feel stuck in unresolved feelings from your past that affect your relationships, work, or how you feel about yourself? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more in your relationship or a parent who’s worried about their teen? You’re in the right place. Oceanside Psychology Group (OPG) is a specialized private practice that focuses on helping youth, adults, couples, and families change the way they feel about themselves and strengthen their relationships.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, relationships, or feel stuck in unresolved feelings from your past that affect your relationships, work, or how you feel about yourself? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more in your relationship or a parent who’s worried about their teen? You’re in the right place. Oceanside Psychology Group (OPG) is a specialized private practice that focuses on helping youth, adults, couples, and families change the way they feel about themselves and strengthen their relationships.
(672) 906-1280 View (672) 906-1280
Photo of Michelle Ann Coulombe, MA, RCC
Michelle Ann Coulombe
MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
My ideal client is struggling with stress, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias or depression. They may have someone in their life who creates a lot of drama for everyone. They want to find more peace, satisfaction and happiness in their lives. Their goal is to learn how to deal with lives that are too busy and overwhelming, to stop worrying, to be less perfectionistic and irritable, to be more assertive, to find joy in life, or to decide on a career or a move. They want tools for managing anxiety and depression so that they don't have to stay stuck. They want relationship tools.
My ideal client is struggling with stress, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias or depression. They may have someone in their life who creates a lot of drama for everyone. They want to find more peace, satisfaction and happiness in their lives. Their goal is to learn how to deal with lives that are too busy and overwhelming, to stop worrying, to be less perfectionistic and irritable, to be more assertive, to find joy in life, or to decide on a career or a move. They want tools for managing anxiety and depression so that they don't have to stay stuck. They want relationship tools.
(778) 653-5373 View (778) 653-5373
Photo of Krishna Sharma, M ED, RCC, CVAP, Counsellor
Krishna Sharma
Counsellor, M ED, RCC, CVAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5C
Krishna Sharma is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). She holds a second Masters in Educational Leadership and a certified teacher with specializations in Montessori, Special Education and Restorative Justice. She has worked as a Youth and Family therapist with the RCMP and currently works as a scKrishna uses CBT, Narrative and play therapy in her work and is accepting online clients. She has extensive training in trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, Behaviour support, Social Emotional Learning, suicide assessments and mindfulness. Services available in English and Punjabi
Krishna Sharma is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BC Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). She holds a second Masters in Educational Leadership and a certified teacher with specializations in Montessori, Special Education and Restorative Justice. She has worked as a Youth and Family therapist with the RCMP and currently works as a scKrishna uses CBT, Narrative and play therapy in her work and is accepting online clients. She has extensive training in trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, Behaviour support, Social Emotional Learning, suicide assessments and mindfulness. Services available in English and Punjabi
(343) 338-5549 View (343) 338-5549
Photo of Dr. Alessandro Metta, PhD, Counsellor
Dr. Alessandro Metta
Counsellor, PhD
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
With years of experience in the field, I have dedicated my career to helping clients overcome emotional struggles and achieve their full potential. Creating a safe and authentic therapeutic connection is essential to achieving lasting healing and growth. I believe in providing a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where you feel seen and heard. I am committed to holding space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. My approach to therapy is experiential and integrative, grounded in neuroscience, with an emphasis on attachment and relational healing. Pls note I work with adult clients only.
With years of experience in the field, I have dedicated my career to helping clients overcome emotional struggles and achieve their full potential. Creating a safe and authentic therapeutic connection is essential to achieving lasting healing and growth. I believe in providing a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment where you feel seen and heard. I am committed to holding space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions without fear of judgment. My approach to therapy is experiential and integrative, grounded in neuroscience, with an emphasis on attachment and relational healing. Pls note I work with adult clients only.
(579) 589-1109 View (579) 589-1109
Photo of Sandra L MacDonald, MEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Sandra L MacDonald
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
I am a good listener who will encourage you to reflect on what works for you, and which strategies you have tried in the past that have both worked well, or were unsuccessful. I will challenge you in good ways while delivering unconditional acceptance of your preferences and coping strategies. I will encourage you to grow, adapt, and face life’s challenges, losses, and life transitions and to move through losses while maintaining or learning healthy ways to grow. I have experience with a vast range of clients from ages 4-76 years and multicultural backgrounds. I am ethical, experienced, confidential, and trustworthy.
I am a good listener who will encourage you to reflect on what works for you, and which strategies you have tried in the past that have both worked well, or were unsuccessful. I will challenge you in good ways while delivering unconditional acceptance of your preferences and coping strategies. I will encourage you to grow, adapt, and face life’s challenges, losses, and life transitions and to move through losses while maintaining or learning healthy ways to grow. I have experience with a vast range of clients from ages 4-76 years and multicultural backgrounds. I am ethical, experienced, confidential, and trustworthy.
(604) 245-8174 View (604) 245-8174
Photo of Alexandra Marinova, MA, RCC, BSc, RPC, Counsellor
Alexandra Marinova
Counsellor, MA, RCC, BSc, RPC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
“Life is suffering”, the Buddha famously said. But it doesn’t have to be this way, at least not all of the time. While I may never know the full extent of your situation, I can be sure of two things – you have suffered and a part of you believes it is possible for things to be better. I am here to guide you on your journey to better, however that looks like for you.
“Life is suffering”, the Buddha famously said. But it doesn’t have to be this way, at least not all of the time. While I may never know the full extent of your situation, I can be sure of two things – you have suffered and a part of you believes it is possible for things to be better. I am here to guide you on your journey to better, however that looks like for you.
(604) 229-6569 View (604) 229-6569
Photo of Lena Orlova, RTC, Counsellor
Lena Orlova
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5C
I am a bicultural therapist and my clients relate to me because they look for someone who appreciates what it's like to be inside of cultural and generational divides. I have over 5 years of experience working with professionals, parents, and students on issues related to trauma, immigration, family dynamics, and unacknowledged grief. Unacknowledged grief is what that doesn't fit our society's expectations: grief of relocating, of surviving disasters, of change. What makes me different from most therapists, is that I am passionate about helping people navigate the "other" relationships: friendships and workplace dynamics.
I am a bicultural therapist and my clients relate to me because they look for someone who appreciates what it's like to be inside of cultural and generational divides. I have over 5 years of experience working with professionals, parents, and students on issues related to trauma, immigration, family dynamics, and unacknowledged grief. Unacknowledged grief is what that doesn't fit our society's expectations: grief of relocating, of surviving disasters, of change. What makes me different from most therapists, is that I am passionate about helping people navigate the "other" relationships: friendships and workplace dynamics.
(778) 400-2161 View (778) 400-2161
Photo of Nashina Merani Miranda, RTC, Counsellor
Nashina Merani Miranda
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5A
Hi, my name is Nashina (pronounced: nuh-she-na). I am a cis, South-Asian woman and my pronouns are she/her. I am a licensed therapist in beautiful (so-called) Vancouver, BC. I’m a wife, a Mother, forest frolicker and I LOVE what I do. Therapy is almost entirely about relationship and trust building; that begins in our therapeutic relationship. Together we explore (and identify) your needs, values and what you wish to transform towards ( examples: intimacy in relationships, more confidence or self-trust, better communication, cultivating a sense of belonging). From this place, long-lasting change and healing can occur. Small is all.
Hi, my name is Nashina (pronounced: nuh-she-na). I am a cis, South-Asian woman and my pronouns are she/her. I am a licensed therapist in beautiful (so-called) Vancouver, BC. I’m a wife, a Mother, forest frolicker and I LOVE what I do. Therapy is almost entirely about relationship and trust building; that begins in our therapeutic relationship. Together we explore (and identify) your needs, values and what you wish to transform towards ( examples: intimacy in relationships, more confidence or self-trust, better communication, cultivating a sense of belonging). From this place, long-lasting change and healing can occur. Small is all.
(249) 294-8224 View (249) 294-8224
Photo of Ola Abugharbiyeh - Jade Counselling & Wellness , MA, MACP, RCC, EMDR, Counsellor
Jade Counselling & Wellness
Counsellor, MA, MACP, RCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
Do you feel emotionally exhausted trying to figure out your life, career and relationships? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, obsession and panic attacks? Have you experienced physical or sexual abuse, abandonment or neglect? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Are you struggling with cultural dissonance, racism, oppression, separation or grief? We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a healthy life. People can change, there is hope and answers. Let's walk together towards wellness; and celebrate your successes along the way in an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule.
Do you feel emotionally exhausted trying to figure out your life, career and relationships? Are you overwhelmed by anxiety, obsession and panic attacks? Have you experienced physical or sexual abuse, abandonment or neglect? Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Are you struggling with cultural dissonance, racism, oppression, separation or grief? We believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a healthy life. People can change, there is hope and answers. Let's walk together towards wellness; and celebrate your successes along the way in an inclusive, safe space with in-person or virtual appointments to suit your schedule.
(604) 332-3370 View (604) 332-3370
Photo of Ina Stockhausen, Counsellor
Ina Stockhausen
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
I am passionate about working with women and addressing issues that are standing in the way of you experiencing life from a place of joy, self-love and empowerment. As women we tend to wear many hats such as daughter, mother, spouse, caregiver, career woman. Low self-esteem, co-dependency or inability to say no, feeling responsible, poor body image, fertility issues, sexual abuse or abuse, perfectionism or emotional eating...all these challenges can create stress and overwhelm which can lead to anxiety, depression and more. Pls check out my website www.goddessrevealed.ca for more information about my work.
I am passionate about working with women and addressing issues that are standing in the way of you experiencing life from a place of joy, self-love and empowerment. As women we tend to wear many hats such as daughter, mother, spouse, caregiver, career woman. Low self-esteem, co-dependency or inability to say no, feeling responsible, poor body image, fertility issues, sexual abuse or abuse, perfectionism or emotional eating...all these challenges can create stress and overwhelm which can lead to anxiety, depression and more. Pls check out my website www.goddessrevealed.ca for more information about my work.
(866) 851-9649 View (866) 851-9649
Photo of Saima Shah, MBA, CHT, RTC, ACTA, Counsellor
Saima Shah
Counsellor, MBA, CHT, RTC, ACTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
My clients are incredible people who have gone through a major life transition (trauma, loss, career change, breakup, migration, health diagnosis and/or narcissistic abuse) and value professional support to navigate it all. There may be concerns around career/family and how to show up for life while feeling anxious, burnt out or struggling to keep it together. Clients see me for self-esteem, perfectionism, sleep issues, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, sports performance, cultural oppression, workplace alienation and complex childhood trauma. Im a member of both ACCT and ACTA. I see BIPOC and other clients in BC and Alberta.
My clients are incredible people who have gone through a major life transition (trauma, loss, career change, breakup, migration, health diagnosis and/or narcissistic abuse) and value professional support to navigate it all. There may be concerns around career/family and how to show up for life while feeling anxious, burnt out or struggling to keep it together. Clients see me for self-esteem, perfectionism, sleep issues, chronic fatigue, anxiety, depression, sports performance, cultural oppression, workplace alienation and complex childhood trauma. Im a member of both ACCT and ACTA. I see BIPOC and other clients in BC and Alberta.
(587) 805-0360 View (587) 805-0360
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Gestalt Counsellors

What is gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is based on the idea that to address unresolved negative feelings, emotions must be not only discussed but also actively expressed in the present moment. The term is from a German word meaning “whole,” and gestalt therapists believe that people should be considered whole entities made up of mind, body, and emotions. Gestalt sessions are rooted in the notion that a client’s total self must be discovered, explored, and confronted, so that they can take greater responsibility for themselves and their behaviour, learn to satisfy their own needs while still respecting the needs of others, and reconnect with feelings they might otherwise deny.

How does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy sessions do not just involve talking with a therapist. Clients may take part in role-playing, re-enactment, or artistic exercises like drawing and painting, with the goal of becoming more aware of negative thought patterns that limit happiness. One common gestalt exercise is “the empty chair,” in which a client sits across from an empty chair representing a partner, relative, boss, or a part of themselves—and, with the therapist’s encouragement, improvises a dialog with it. The intention is to bring the emotions raised by past conflicts into the present and work through them in the moment.

How long does gestalt therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for gestalt therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. New patients should understand that it may take some time to become comfortable with gestalt exercises but once they do, they should expect sessions to extend for a number of months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions.

Does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy has generally been found to be as effective as other forms of talk therapy in helping people living with anxiety, depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as helping individuals reduce conflict in relationships. Gestalt techniques, on their own or in combination with other therapies, can also be effective in managing physical ailments including ulcerative colitis, migraines, and back spasms. It should be noted that some people may have trouble adapting to gestalt therapy’s lack of formal structure or to a therapist’s close observations of their body language and emotions; others may struggle to commit to techniques that feel unnatural, like the empty chair exercise.