Gestalt Therapists in 80027

Photo of Alexander D Fuller - Alex Fuller Psychotherapy, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Fuller Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, CO 80027
I have worked with individuals, couples & families for over 20 years, drawing on my training in Gestalt, attachment, mindfulness, body-centered approaches & neuroscience.
I am a individual adult counselor and PACT trained couple/marriage therapist. Psychotherapy is a journey of self-exploration, self-discovery and self-awareness. My approach centers around a belief in the healing and transformative power of mindfulness, and mind-body awareness. With guidance and support, these tools lead to freedom, joy, the manifestation of your natural talents and gifts, and your true voice. I offer a supportive, compassionate style, and a strong, steady, presence for our work together; I also skillfully and precisely challenge the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns that keep you feeling stuck.
I have worked with individuals, couples & families for over 20 years, drawing on my training in Gestalt, attachment, mindfulness, body-centered approaches & neuroscience.
I am a individual adult counselor and PACT trained couple/marriage therapist. Psychotherapy is a journey of self-exploration, self-discovery and self-awareness. My approach centers around a belief in the healing and transformative power of mindfulness, and mind-body awareness. With guidance and support, these tools lead to freedom, joy, the manifestation of your natural talents and gifts, and your true voice. I offer a supportive, compassionate style, and a strong, steady, presence for our work together; I also skillfully and precisely challenge the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral patterns that keep you feeling stuck.
(720) 613-6636 View (720) 613-6636
Photo of Julia Turpin, LPCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julia Turpin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
I have skills in somatic work, mindfulness, play therapy, Gestalt therapy, and dreamwork as well as traditional talk therapy and incorporate these evidence based therapeutic interventions.
I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to heal and reconnect. Therapy can be an intimidating journey and as a therapist I strive to create an environment for my clients that feels caring and supportive, welcoming all emotions and experiences into the space. I work with my clients to better themselves at the pace they feel ready to work at while establishing trust and compassion. In my counseling work I offer client centered approaches, tailoring to each clients individual needs while building a therapeutic relationship. I am passionate about holding space for trauma and specialize in working with teens and young adults.
I have skills in somatic work, mindfulness, play therapy, Gestalt therapy, and dreamwork as well as traditional talk therapy and incorporate these evidence based therapeutic interventions.
I believe that everyone should have the opportunity to heal and reconnect. Therapy can be an intimidating journey and as a therapist I strive to create an environment for my clients that feels caring and supportive, welcoming all emotions and experiences into the space. I work with my clients to better themselves at the pace they feel ready to work at while establishing trust and compassion. In my counseling work I offer client centered approaches, tailoring to each clients individual needs while building a therapeutic relationship. I am passionate about holding space for trauma and specialize in working with teens and young adults.
(303) 816-8654 View (303) 816-8654
Photo of Becca Barry, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becca Barry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
For adults, my expertise extends to Gestalt therapy, a powerful modality.
Passionate Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to guiding individuals of all ages toward self-discovery and personal growth. Specializing in working with clients with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation needs. My ideal client is anyone seeking to unravel patterns hindering deep connections and striving to become the best version of themselves. I thrive on helping clients set and achieve goals, whether it's mastering the art of self-regulation, enhancing communication skills, fostering deeper relationships, or cultivating healthier habits.
For adults, my expertise extends to Gestalt therapy, a powerful modality.
Passionate Licensed Professional Counselor dedicated to guiding individuals of all ages toward self-discovery and personal growth. Specializing in working with clients with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, anxiety, depression, and emotion regulation needs. My ideal client is anyone seeking to unravel patterns hindering deep connections and striving to become the best version of themselves. I thrive on helping clients set and achieve goals, whether it's mastering the art of self-regulation, enhancing communication skills, fostering deeper relationships, or cultivating healthier habits.
(720) 650-0688 View (720) 650-0688
Photo of Uri Talmor, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Uri Talmor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Louisville, CO 80027  (Online Only)
I have decades of experience in the fields of personal growth (since 1990) and mental health (2004); I've developed an approach based on Internal Family Systems (IFS), gestalt, and other models, called Conscious Heart Integration (CHI). It's gentle and transformative, and many clients say it's different than anything else they've tried. CHI goes beyond talk therapy. Of course, effective treatment includes being witnessed, heard, and deeply understood, but there is much more possible in healing spaces. Somatic, parts-based, and transpersonal models have opened the door for more experiential, holistic, and transformational treatment.
I have decades of experience in the fields of personal growth (since 1990) and mental health (2004); I've developed an approach based on Internal Family Systems (IFS), gestalt, and other models, called Conscious Heart Integration (CHI). It's gentle and transformative, and many clients say it's different than anything else they've tried. CHI goes beyond talk therapy. Of course, effective treatment includes being witnessed, heard, and deeply understood, but there is much more possible in healing spaces. Somatic, parts-based, and transpersonal models have opened the door for more experiential, holistic, and transformational treatment.
(720) 414-2068 View (720) 414-2068
Photo of Callie Graca, LPCC
Callie Graca
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
Callie utilizes a blend of Experiential Therapy, Play Therapy, Gestalt, and CBT.
Callie is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate who received her Master’s Degree in Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counseling at Naropa University. She is passionate about working with children and teens as they navigate life’s challenges. She meets each client where they are at while providing support from a mind-body perspective.
Callie utilizes a blend of Experiential Therapy, Play Therapy, Gestalt, and CBT.
Callie is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate who received her Master’s Degree in Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counseling at Naropa University. She is passionate about working with children and teens as they navigate life’s challenges. She meets each client where they are at while providing support from a mind-body perspective.
(720) 801-1839 View (720) 801-1839
Photo of Edie Stone, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Edie Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027  (Online Only)
I offer a unique blend of effective techniques: * Relaxation and mindfulness for anxiety * Mind-body, cognitive, and expressive work for depression * Gestalt and dream work for deeper integration * PAIRS and PACT tools for couples * Soul-centered counseling for grief and spiritual issues * EMDR or shamanic journeys for trauma or painful memories .
I am here to help you cope with the stresses of life and find meaning in a rapidly changing world. * Are you looking for a natural, holistic alternative to traditional talk therapy? I use a gentle, compassionate approach to help you relax, transform unhealthy patterns, improve and deepen relationships, and reclaim your power and vitality. * Are you are sensitive or easily overwhelmed? I can help you ground and develop stronger energetic boundaries. * Do you need support for trauma or a difficult childhood? I will help you develop inner resources, so that you can safely process painful memories or PTSD.
I offer a unique blend of effective techniques: * Relaxation and mindfulness for anxiety * Mind-body, cognitive, and expressive work for depression * Gestalt and dream work for deeper integration * PAIRS and PACT tools for couples * Soul-centered counseling for grief and spiritual issues * EMDR or shamanic journeys for trauma or painful memories .
I am here to help you cope with the stresses of life and find meaning in a rapidly changing world. * Are you looking for a natural, holistic alternative to traditional talk therapy? I use a gentle, compassionate approach to help you relax, transform unhealthy patterns, improve and deepen relationships, and reclaim your power and vitality. * Are you are sensitive or easily overwhelmed? I can help you ground and develop stronger energetic boundaries. * Do you need support for trauma or a difficult childhood? I will help you develop inner resources, so that you can safely process painful memories or PTSD.
(303) 900-5190 View (303) 900-5190
Photo of Gil Shalit, LPC, SEP, CACIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gil Shalit
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP, CACIII
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
In addition to being a licensed psychotherapist, I am a certified Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner, a certified DARe (Dynamic Attachment RePatterning) treatment provider, a certified senior Addictions Counselor and a teacher of the Diamond Approach. I also have certifications in EMDR and Gestalt therapy. I have been adjunct faculty in the Graduate Counseling Psychology programs at Naropa University, and have assisted in professional trauma-resolution trainings domestically & . I have also provided consultation & clinical supervision for therapists and various agencies & hospitals in the Boulder/Denver area. I work with individuals, couples & groups and provide clinical supervision & consultation.
In addition to being a licensed psychotherapist, I am a certified Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner, a certified DARe (Dynamic Attachment RePatterning) treatment provider, a certified senior Addictions Counselor and a teacher of the Diamond Approach. I also have certifications in EMDR and Gestalt therapy. I have been adjunct faculty in the Graduate Counseling Psychology programs at Naropa University, and have assisted in professional trauma-resolution trainings domestically & . I have also provided consultation & clinical supervision for therapists and various agencies & hospitals in the Boulder/Denver area. I work with individuals, couples & groups and provide clinical supervision & consultation.
(720) 903-4031 View (720) 903-4031
Photo of Jeremy Dion, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeremy Dion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027  (Online Only)
I also have a degree in Music Therapy, am a Certified Gestalt Therapist, EMDR Trained, and also am a published author (The Art of Mindful Singing) and performing songwriter.
Greetings and thanks for exploring my counseling practice. While the majority of my clients are between the ages of 5 and 15, I also work with older kids and adults on their own issues, parenting practices, stress and anxiety management, and more. Whether you are looking for an empathic ear or concrete coping strategies for yourself or your child, I use a strength-based and person-centered approach to psychotherapy. Please note that I do not accept any insurance payments, but instead accept cash, checks or digital currency (Venmo, e.g.).
I also have a degree in Music Therapy, am a Certified Gestalt Therapist, EMDR Trained, and also am a published author (The Art of Mindful Singing) and performing songwriter.
Greetings and thanks for exploring my counseling practice. While the majority of my clients are between the ages of 5 and 15, I also work with older kids and adults on their own issues, parenting practices, stress and anxiety management, and more. Whether you are looking for an empathic ear or concrete coping strategies for yourself or your child, I use a strength-based and person-centered approach to psychotherapy. Please note that I do not accept any insurance payments, but instead accept cash, checks or digital currency (Venmo, e.g.).
(303) 732-6871 View (303) 732-6871
Photo of Diane M. Doe, Pre-Licensed Professional
Diane M. Doe
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
Are you living the life you want? I use Gestalt, Existential, psychodynamic, body-oriented, group, couples, and family systems therapy as a way of looking at underlying issues. The aim is personal transformation and more creative living. I have a background in working with addictions, grief, anxiety, depression, self neglect, and abandonment issues. We will focus on self-care, life transitions, self-expression, and support for an abundant life. I especially like working with people where they feel stuck and unable to move forward. My overall approach involves helping people move from the spirit of seriousness to the spirit of play.
Are you living the life you want? I use Gestalt, Existential, psychodynamic, body-oriented, group, couples, and family systems therapy as a way of looking at underlying issues. The aim is personal transformation and more creative living. I have a background in working with addictions, grief, anxiety, depression, self neglect, and abandonment issues. We will focus on self-care, life transitions, self-expression, and support for an abundant life. I especially like working with people where they feel stuck and unable to move forward. My overall approach involves helping people move from the spirit of seriousness to the spirit of play.
(720) 722-4034 View (720) 722-4034
Photo of Shannon Bauer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Bauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
I incorporate EMDR, CBT, Gestalt, Experiential, Social Justice Counseling, EFT, and more within a client-centered framework for stress, anxiety, negative self talk, trauma, sexual/gender identity, grief/loss, depression, and more.
Life can be stressful and sometimes we need extra tools and guidance along the way. In working together, we will focus on your past traumas, life stressors, or the way that you react to certain situations. We can explore your past family systems, current relationships, societal influences, and life changing experiences along the way to offer insight, perspective, and tools to meet your individual needs and goals. I have a vast array of experience both personally and professionally. I believe that everyone deserves someone to support them through challenging times and feel honored to be that person for clients.
I incorporate EMDR, CBT, Gestalt, Experiential, Social Justice Counseling, EFT, and more within a client-centered framework for stress, anxiety, negative self talk, trauma, sexual/gender identity, grief/loss, depression, and more.
Life can be stressful and sometimes we need extra tools and guidance along the way. In working together, we will focus on your past traumas, life stressors, or the way that you react to certain situations. We can explore your past family systems, current relationships, societal influences, and life changing experiences along the way to offer insight, perspective, and tools to meet your individual needs and goals. I have a vast array of experience both personally and professionally. I believe that everyone deserves someone to support them through challenging times and feel honored to be that person for clients.
(303) 625-9379 View (303) 625-9379
Photo of Sarah Carpenter, MA, LPC, Counselor
Sarah Carpenter
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Louisville, CO 80027
My practice is informed by the lenses of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Gestalt, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Nonviolent Communication, and other empirically-based modalities held in a trauma-informed framework.
I am a mindfulness-based psychotherapist, that specializes in working with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life-transition, trauma, and grief in young adults and adults. My aim as a therapist is to walk with you on the path of challenge, building connection to your most authentic self and developing resourcing along the way. I offer a caring and nonjudgmental space to explore all parts of the self, connecting to needs, boundaries, and self-worth. In our work together, we will identify internal dialogue, self-narrative, and strengths in order to fortify your connection to yourself and others.
My practice is informed by the lenses of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Gestalt, Mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Nonviolent Communication, and other empirically-based modalities held in a trauma-informed framework.
I am a mindfulness-based psychotherapist, that specializes in working with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, life-transition, trauma, and grief in young adults and adults. My aim as a therapist is to walk with you on the path of challenge, building connection to your most authentic self and developing resourcing along the way. I offer a caring and nonjudgmental space to explore all parts of the self, connecting to needs, boundaries, and self-worth. In our work together, we will identify internal dialogue, self-narrative, and strengths in order to fortify your connection to yourself and others.
(720) 295-5677 View (720) 295-5677
Photo of Hannah Rifkin - Wild Grounding PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wild Grounding PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Louisville, CO 80027
Waitlist for new clients
I work with teens and adults who are seeking connection, peace and freedom in their minds, lives and relationships. I help folks work through trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety and eating issues. I utilize experiential and body-based therapy in my work, including Gestalt Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Nature-Based Therapy, Breathwork and Mindfulness.
I work with teens and adults who are seeking connection, peace and freedom in their minds, lives and relationships. I help folks work through trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety and eating issues. I utilize experiential and body-based therapy in my work, including Gestalt Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Nature-Based Therapy, Breathwork and Mindfulness.
(720) 571-4358 View (720) 571-4358
Photo of Dan Fox, LPC, BCN, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dan Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCN
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
For other clients, I approach ongoing therapy from a Humanistic and Gestalt view.
I have spent the past 20 years helping adolescents (and their families) with the work of growing into healthy, happy adults. My background includes teaching high school, running a summer camp, school counseling, and directing September High School. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have brought these experiences into my clinical work.
For other clients, I approach ongoing therapy from a Humanistic and Gestalt view.
I have spent the past 20 years helping adolescents (and their families) with the work of growing into healthy, happy adults. My background includes teaching high school, running a summer camp, school counseling, and directing September High School. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have brought these experiences into my clinical work.
(720) 605-4393 View (720) 605-4393
Photo of Rachel Pearl VanEtten, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Pearl VanEtten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
Are you, and your child, struggling with challenging behaviors, such as emotional outbursts, anxiety, aggressive behaviors, or perfectionism? Perhaps you, and your child, are going through a big life transition? Have you read parenting books, tried numerous strategies, yet still feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and frustrated by what to do next? Do you notice this is affecting your relationships and day-to-day life? Now more that ever, children are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how to manage big feelings, social skills, and life transitions. I am happy to support. I am taking new clients with openings during the day!
Are you, and your child, struggling with challenging behaviors, such as emotional outbursts, anxiety, aggressive behaviors, or perfectionism? Perhaps you, and your child, are going through a big life transition? Have you read parenting books, tried numerous strategies, yet still feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and frustrated by what to do next? Do you notice this is affecting your relationships and day-to-day life? Now more that ever, children are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how to manage big feelings, social skills, and life transitions. I am happy to support. I am taking new clients with openings during the day!
(720) 868-9619 View (720) 868-9619
Photo of Sam Taylor, MA, LPCC
Sam Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
Hi There! When it comes to therapy, I’m all about blending different approaches to create a space that feels just right for healing and growth. I work to support both children and caregivers on navigating the complexities of childhood. My mission is to make sure every child feels heard, understood, and supported on their journey through life.
Hi There! When it comes to therapy, I’m all about blending different approaches to create a space that feels just right for healing and growth. I work to support both children and caregivers on navigating the complexities of childhood. My mission is to make sure every child feels heard, understood, and supported on their journey through life.
(720) 513-4943 View (720) 513-4943
Photo of Dr. Vanessa Kelly, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Vanessa Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
I know that therapy requires the right fit for clients to make progress. I believe in finding that fit, which is why I will provide a client with a free thirty-minute consultation. That will give us both time to see if I am the right person to help you and your needs, and for you to ask any questions about my treatment approach. I have over thirty years of experience in Colorado and in California, teaching in a medical school, and supervising mental health trainees and practicing clinicians. I love this work, and look forward to working with you.
I know that therapy requires the right fit for clients to make progress. I believe in finding that fit, which is why I will provide a client with a free thirty-minute consultation. That will give us both time to see if I am the right person to help you and your needs, and for you to ask any questions about my treatment approach. I have over thirty years of experience in Colorado and in California, teaching in a medical school, and supervising mental health trainees and practicing clinicians. I love this work, and look forward to working with you.
(720) 706-2587 View (720) 706-2587
Photo of Christy Lochary - Louisville Family Center, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Louisville Family Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027
Louisville Family Center offers therapy to children, teens, individuals, couples and families. We embrace a compassionate, heart-centered approach to therapy. We engage with our clients on their unique journeys, employing evidence-based practices that blend empathetic listening with strategic interventions
Louisville Family Center offers therapy to children, teens, individuals, couples and families. We embrace a compassionate, heart-centered approach to therapy. We engage with our clients on their unique journeys, employing evidence-based practices that blend empathetic listening with strategic interventions
(720) 807-8954 View (720) 807-8954
Photo of Marisela Elliott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisela Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Superior, CO 80027  (Online Only)
I began providing trauma-informed family preservation services in 2006. Since 2009, I have provided clinical services to clients and patients in various settings, including private practice, outpatient SUD treatment, treatment specialty courts, regional hospitals, community mental health, and in-home hospices with end-of-life counseling for patients and their families. I diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders. I’m specially trained in CAMS framework (suicide treatment), Complicated Grief Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Domestic Violence Offender Treatment, Motivational Interviewing.
I began providing trauma-informed family preservation services in 2006. Since 2009, I have provided clinical services to clients and patients in various settings, including private practice, outpatient SUD treatment, treatment specialty courts, regional hospitals, community mental health, and in-home hospices with end-of-life counseling for patients and their families. I diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders. I’m specially trained in CAMS framework (suicide treatment), Complicated Grief Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Domestic Violence Offender Treatment, Motivational Interviewing.
(720) 821-6145 View (720) 821-6145
Photo of Miranda Franklin, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Miranda Franklin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Superior, CO 80027  (Online Only)
Are you tired of being tired and looking for someone to talk with to help you out of this funk you’ve found yourself in? Do you struggle with feelings of sadness and just not feeling yourself or do you feel like you’ve got an elephant on your chest that just won’t leave you alone? Schedule with me and let’s find the right skills to overcome these difficulties in your life and get you back on track to a healthier, happier life! In 2015, I graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. Now as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC)
Are you tired of being tired and looking for someone to talk with to help you out of this funk you’ve found yourself in? Do you struggle with feelings of sadness and just not feeling yourself or do you feel like you’ve got an elephant on your chest that just won’t leave you alone? Schedule with me and let’s find the right skills to overcome these difficulties in your life and get you back on track to a healthier, happier life! In 2015, I graduated from the University of Southern California with a Master’s Degree in Social Work. Now as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC)
(720) 780-7430 View (720) 780-7430
Photo of Amy Welker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Welker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Louisville, CO 80027  (Online Only)
Making the first call, sending the email or text to get the help you need can be anxiety producing. Congrats! You did it. I look forward to meeting you. During our first our first meeting we will discuss what brings you into therapy, go over paperwork, questions, and determine together if we are a good fit. Therapy is a relationship like any other and it is important that you feel heard, understood and accepted. I am very passionate about teaching, training and helping persons learn life skills and gain the best quality of life possible.
Making the first call, sending the email or text to get the help you need can be anxiety producing. Congrats! You did it. I look forward to meeting you. During our first our first meeting we will discuss what brings you into therapy, go over paperwork, questions, and determine together if we are a good fit. Therapy is a relationship like any other and it is important that you feel heard, understood and accepted. I am very passionate about teaching, training and helping persons learn life skills and gain the best quality of life possible.
(720) 706-2981 View (720) 706-2981
1
Gestalt Therapists

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 behavior, 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.