Gestalt Therapists in La Jolla, CA

Photo of Mary Elizabeth Karlan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Elizabeth Karlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
I am a clinical social worker with advanced training in family therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family in NYC. My theoretical approach when working with my clients is drawn from a eclectic framework which includes, narrative, cognitive behavioral, structural, gestalt,strategic, and problem solving. I specialize in working with blended families, adolescents, single parents, and couples. Personally, I am a mother and step-mother of nine children. I have a private practice in New York and California. I am licensed in NY, CA, CT, Fl, and MA. I am currently accepting new clients.
I am a clinical social worker with advanced training in family therapy at the Ackerman Institute for the Family in NYC. My theoretical approach when working with my clients is drawn from a eclectic framework which includes, narrative, cognitive behavioral, structural, gestalt,strategic, and problem solving. I specialize in working with blended families, adolescents, single parents, and couples. Personally, I am a mother and step-mother of nine children. I have a private practice in New York and California. I am licensed in NY, CA, CT, Fl, and MA. I am currently accepting new clients.
(619) 789-6813 View (619) 789-6813
Photo of Rafael Cortina, MFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rafael Cortina
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MBA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
In my work I utilize a wide variety of therapeutic techniques, which include gestalt exercises and experiments, dream work, imaginal dialogues, and emphatic reflection.
I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked in both Mexico and the United States. I have over 20 years of experience in individual, couples, family and group therapy. I believe I am personally warm, understanding, emphatic, patient, caring, and compassionate with clients. And feel strongly that the nature of human beings tends toward growth and harmony. Along the way, the natural ability to self-regulate may unfortunately be interrupted. However, through the path of self-awareness, and self-responsibility we are able to restore our natural abilities and utilize our full potential, and live healthy life.
In my work I utilize a wide variety of therapeutic techniques, which include gestalt exercises and experiments, dream work, imaginal dialogues, and emphatic reflection.
I am a bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked in both Mexico and the United States. I have over 20 years of experience in individual, couples, family and group therapy. I believe I am personally warm, understanding, emphatic, patient, caring, and compassionate with clients. And feel strongly that the nature of human beings tends toward growth and harmony. Along the way, the natural ability to self-regulate may unfortunately be interrupted. However, through the path of self-awareness, and self-responsibility we are able to restore our natural abilities and utilize our full potential, and live healthy life.
(619) 870-1263 View (619) 870-1263
Photo of Russell F Fuller, JD, PsyD, DCEP, Psychologist
Russell F Fuller
Psychologist, JD, PsyD, DCEP
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
Dr. Fuller offers a comprehensive method of psychotherapy which integrates elements from the humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, energy psychology, gestalt, mindfulness, complex trauma, and positive psychology fields. He works with each person individually to construct a useful approach to problem resolution in as efficient and cost-effective a manner as possible. Dr. Fuller also offers brief consulting services which address areas in which a person feels "blocked" or somehow unable to perform at their best, e.g., parenting, financial prosperity, forming healthy relationships, and peak performance in business or sports.
(858) 215-1921 View (858) 215-1921
Photo of Samuel A. Newman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samuel A. Newman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
In my practice I use selected techniques from the areas of cognitive behavioral therapy, existentialism, Gestalt, humanistic, transpersonal and 12 step programs.
Are you struggling with relationships? Do you need help recovering from a traumatic event? Do you often feel sad and low on energy? Are you searching for ways to be more emotionally stable and less shut down? For over 25 years I have worked with individuals, couples, and families on a range of issues including substance abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, codependency, couples counseling, pre-martial counseling and more. In a highly personalized and collaborative treatment style, I help people understand the deeper reasons for why difficulties keep repeating over and over.
In my practice I use selected techniques from the areas of cognitive behavioral therapy, existentialism, Gestalt, humanistic, transpersonal and 12 step programs.
Are you struggling with relationships? Do you need help recovering from a traumatic event? Do you often feel sad and low on energy? Are you searching for ways to be more emotionally stable and less shut down? For over 25 years I have worked with individuals, couples, and families on a range of issues including substance abuse, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, codependency, couples counseling, pre-martial counseling and more. In a highly personalized and collaborative treatment style, I help people understand the deeper reasons for why difficulties keep repeating over and over.
(619) 320-4249 View (619) 320-4249
Photo of Deborah Cosmetis, PsyD, Psychologist
Deborah Cosmetis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I use a blend of theories and methods from my training in relational gestalt therapy, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, existential, positive psychology, and buddhist psychology.
Throughout life we are all faced with stressors, traumas, and times of transition. During these times, it can be helpful to speak to a professional for guidance as you navigate life’s unavoidable challenges. As a licensed psychologist, I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and supportive space for self exploration and personal growth. Together we will explore the places you feel stuck, process past events, deepen self understanding, and cultivate self acceptance so that you may experience longer lasting happiness, more fulfilling connections, and a more meaningful life.
I use a blend of theories and methods from my training in relational gestalt therapy, cognitive behavioral, humanistic, existential, positive psychology, and buddhist psychology.
Throughout life we are all faced with stressors, traumas, and times of transition. During these times, it can be helpful to speak to a professional for guidance as you navigate life’s unavoidable challenges. As a licensed psychologist, I provide a compassionate, nonjudgmental, and supportive space for self exploration and personal growth. Together we will explore the places you feel stuck, process past events, deepen self understanding, and cultivate self acceptance so that you may experience longer lasting happiness, more fulfilling connections, and a more meaningful life.
(619) 552-3545 View (619) 552-3545
Photo of Erin Wigger, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Erin Wigger
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Therapy seeks to address the patterns and unresolved material unique to each of us which hampers our ability to connect meaningfully with others and limits our capacity for joy. I work with couples and individuals looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and work collaboratively to cultivate curiosity, authenticity, honesty, self-compassion, and the ability to tolerate difficult feelings. I use a combination of gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, relational therapy, EMDR, and somatic interventions when working with individuals. My couple’s work is mainly inspired by family systems theory and imago therapy.
Therapy seeks to address the patterns and unresolved material unique to each of us which hampers our ability to connect meaningfully with others and limits our capacity for joy. I work with couples and individuals looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and work collaboratively to cultivate curiosity, authenticity, honesty, self-compassion, and the ability to tolerate difficult feelings. I use a combination of gestalt therapy, psychodynamic therapy, relational therapy, EMDR, and somatic interventions when working with individuals. My couple’s work is mainly inspired by family systems theory and imago therapy.
(310) 986-3240 View (310) 986-3240
Photo of Inessa Freya Lieberman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Inessa Freya Lieberman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
My approach is psychodynamic, internal family systems, guided meditation, inner child work, CBT, Gestalt, guided imagery, Inner Bonding and the Release Technique.
There's a saying, "Healing is the application of love to the places inside that hurt." I'm here to fully support you in tending to those places. Together we will journey into understanding the major themes and patterns in your life and what they are trying to teach you. This increased level of awareness can help you access your strength and intuition, eliminate negative self talk and choose a more fulfilling relationship with yourself, others and life. I offer a 15 minute meet and greet to ensure we are a good fit.
My approach is psychodynamic, internal family systems, guided meditation, inner child work, CBT, Gestalt, guided imagery, Inner Bonding and the Release Technique.
There's a saying, "Healing is the application of love to the places inside that hurt." I'm here to fully support you in tending to those places. Together we will journey into understanding the major themes and patterns in your life and what they are trying to teach you. This increased level of awareness can help you access your strength and intuition, eliminate negative self talk and choose a more fulfilling relationship with yourself, others and life. I offer a 15 minute meet and greet to ensure we are a good fit.
(707) 207-8551 View (707) 207-8551
Photo of Bryson Greaves, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bryson Greaves
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Interpersonal relationships are powerful contributors to our overall health. Our intimate partner relationships, family relationships, work or peer relationships tend to affect us in meaningful ways. When our relational lives are strong and connected we feel satisfied, empowered, hopeful, and more confident. When our relational lives are hurting, we feel anxious, sad, pained, frustrated, and left not knowing what to do to improve it. I work with my clients to address the heart of their stressors working toward tangible results with lasting effects. I work collaboratively & passionately to create a safe, responsive, and supportive environment to address your needs.
Interpersonal relationships are powerful contributors to our overall health. Our intimate partner relationships, family relationships, work or peer relationships tend to affect us in meaningful ways. When our relational lives are strong and connected we feel satisfied, empowered, hopeful, and more confident. When our relational lives are hurting, we feel anxious, sad, pained, frustrated, and left not knowing what to do to improve it. I work with my clients to address the heart of their stressors working toward tangible results with lasting effects. I work collaboratively & passionately to create a safe, responsive, and supportive environment to address your needs.
(619) 648-4823 View (619) 648-4823
Photo of Trish A Stanley - The Center for Couples Therapy, PsyD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Center for Couples Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
As a marriage and family psychotherapist for over 30 years, I am an experienced, eclectic clinician whose passion is helping couples become masters of their relationship and individuals become their best selves. Clients find me to be warm, active, engaged, and creative. I often use humor, metaphor, and therapeutic experiment to enliven sessions, and utilize tools for practice to support clients between sessions. I work to have each session build on the last and reach the client’s goals in timely and powerful ways. I am committed to having each person feel known, understood, supported and appreciated throughout the therapeutic process.
As a marriage and family psychotherapist for over 30 years, I am an experienced, eclectic clinician whose passion is helping couples become masters of their relationship and individuals become their best selves. Clients find me to be warm, active, engaged, and creative. I often use humor, metaphor, and therapeutic experiment to enliven sessions, and utilize tools for practice to support clients between sessions. I work to have each session build on the last and reach the client’s goals in timely and powerful ways. I am committed to having each person feel known, understood, supported and appreciated throughout the therapeutic process.
(858) 496-7681 x701 View (858) 496-7681 x701
Photo of Wendy Myers - Sage Recovery Services, LAADC, ICADC, MSCP, LMHC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Sage Recovery Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LAADC, ICADC, MSCP, LMHC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
For 30 years, I have specialized in attending to the needs of my clients with addiction problems and mental health needs. I am very passionate about working with individuals who want to improve themselves, live a productive and happier, peaceful life. I will help you to find the right skills and tools to utilize in your recovery.
For 30 years, I have specialized in attending to the needs of my clients with addiction problems and mental health needs. I am very passionate about working with individuals who want to improve themselves, live a productive and happier, peaceful life. I will help you to find the right skills and tools to utilize in your recovery.
(760) 307-1195 View (760) 307-1195
Photo of Kimberly Blair, MBA
Kimberly Blair
MBA
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
At The Guides Holistic Therapies in San Diego, my ideal client is someone open to trying something new in their talk therapy journey, seeking deep healing from emotional or physical pain rooted in stress, grief, or trauma. They desire a holistic approach that integrates mind, body, and spirit. Embracing therapies like Clinical Hypnotherapy, Grief Counseling, Reiki, Breathwork, and Sound Healing, they aim to reconnect with their true self, release burdens, and achieve lasting peace. Their ultimate goal is to heal, transform, and reclaim their well-being through a unique, personalized action based approach.
At The Guides Holistic Therapies in San Diego, my ideal client is someone open to trying something new in their talk therapy journey, seeking deep healing from emotional or physical pain rooted in stress, grief, or trauma. They desire a holistic approach that integrates mind, body, and spirit. Embracing therapies like Clinical Hypnotherapy, Grief Counseling, Reiki, Breathwork, and Sound Healing, they aim to reconnect with their true self, release burdens, and achieve lasting peace. Their ultimate goal is to heal, transform, and reclaim their well-being through a unique, personalized action based approach.
(858) 330-6233 View (858) 330-6233
Photo of Marlane Y Agriesti, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marlane Y Agriesti
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
Are you going through a major life transition? Have you been through emotional, physical, relationship or family trauma? Are you struggling with limiting or destructive relationship patterns, feeling anxious, experience panic, or struggle with self-esteem? Would you like to explore more creative approaches to the problems you face? I work especially well with people of all ages in search of healthier relationships, deep personal change and greater self-awareness. If you want to create a more balanced and fruitful life and claim your authentic voice and way in the world, I can help you navigate that journey with safety and trust.
Are you going through a major life transition? Have you been through emotional, physical, relationship or family trauma? Are you struggling with limiting or destructive relationship patterns, feeling anxious, experience panic, or struggle with self-esteem? Would you like to explore more creative approaches to the problems you face? I work especially well with people of all ages in search of healthier relationships, deep personal change and greater self-awareness. If you want to create a more balanced and fruitful life and claim your authentic voice and way in the world, I can help you navigate that journey with safety and trust.
(858) 358-7790 View (858) 358-7790
Photo of Julie K Peters, MA, APCC, LCPC, Counselor
Julie K Peters
Counselor, MA, APCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
Welcome, I bring a strong skill base working in LGBTQIA+, addiction and PTSD communitites. I love working with Couples and families, and I'm passionate about helping students navigate studying and self-care. I'm here to help you utilize your innate creativity, and I'm excited to aid you as you enact new patterns in your relationship with yourself and others. You will experience me as an affirming clinician who values and acknowledges your marginalized identity and the intersection of the many roles you embody. You can expect kindness from me and a treatment space that expands to allow your unique perspective to shine.
(510) 380-5706 View (510) 380-5706
Photo of Annette Conway - Help Therapy | Mental Health Services, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP, Psychologist
Help Therapy | Mental Health Services
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, NP, PNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
Help Therapy boasts a network of more than 150 licensed clinical psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs, spanning over 100 specialties and treatment areas. Services we provide including psychotherapy, psychological evaluations and psychiatric services. By completing an intake form on HelpTherapy.com, you'll be paired with a therapist tailored to your specific treatment requirements, insurance coverage, and location preferences. You have the flexibility to choose how you'd like to connect with your provider—whether in-person, online, or via phone.
(858) 481-8827 View (858) 481-8827
Photo of John Lee Evans Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
John Lee Evans Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
People want straight talk from a psychologist, not psychobabble. They don’t want a passive therapist who just listens. Nor do they want a know-it-all to tell them exactly what to do. They want a competent psychologist who gives real feedback about what he sees going on. They want someone with real life experience who can relate to their problems as a professional, a parent or a child. Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Evans had experience serving in the Peace Corps, running a business, getting married and having children.
People want straight talk from a psychologist, not psychobabble. They don’t want a passive therapist who just listens. Nor do they want a know-it-all to tell them exactly what to do. They want a competent psychologist who gives real feedback about what he sees going on. They want someone with real life experience who can relate to their problems as a professional, a parent or a child. Before becoming a psychologist, Dr. Evans had experience serving in the Peace Corps, running a business, getting married and having children.
(858) 673-9600 View (858) 673-9600
Photo of Lawrence T Woodburn, PhD, Psychologist
Lawrence T Woodburn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037
We believe that therapy is an opportunity for enhancing the functioning of individuals and families because everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life. We are sensitive to our diverse community and strive to honor everyone’s beliefs and cultural values offering services tailored to meet the needs of our clients.
We believe that therapy is an opportunity for enhancing the functioning of individuals and families because everyone deserves to live a happy and fulfilling life. We are sensitive to our diverse community and strive to honor everyone’s beliefs and cultural values offering services tailored to meet the needs of our clients.
(858) 452-1477 View (858) 452-1477
Photo of Minerva Romano Correa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Minerva Romano Correa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92093  (Online Only)
It is not uncommon for someone to find themselves in a state of emotional reaction, due to negative childhood experiences, life challenges, trauma or constant relationship problems. This is not only an emotional response, but a physical and spiritual one as well. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). A very effective and helpful therapy that cuts talk time in half, and focuses on releasing present and past emotional distress. I also use the latest mindfulness techniques, among others, to provide you with a personalizad and comprehensive treatment. Avoid the commute and try Online therapy!
It is not uncommon for someone to find themselves in a state of emotional reaction, due to negative childhood experiences, life challenges, trauma or constant relationship problems. This is not only an emotional response, but a physical and spiritual one as well. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). A very effective and helpful therapy that cuts talk time in half, and focuses on releasing present and past emotional distress. I also use the latest mindfulness techniques, among others, to provide you with a personalizad and comprehensive treatment. Avoid the commute and try Online therapy!
(415) 234-5486 View (415) 234-5486
Photo of Wen Chi Chien, MA, LPC, Counselor
Wen Chi Chien
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Do you feel like a hamster on the wheel, no matter how you try, you just don't feel good enough? The truth is that "YOU are Powerful Beyond Measure!" All you need to do is to learn how to tap into your Inner Power! Being a psychotherapist and life coach for more than 25 years, I understand how you feel. I have helped thousands of people successfully recover from severe anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction.
Do you feel like a hamster on the wheel, no matter how you try, you just don't feel good enough? The truth is that "YOU are Powerful Beyond Measure!" All you need to do is to learn how to tap into your Inner Power! Being a psychotherapist and life coach for more than 25 years, I understand how you feel. I have helped thousands of people successfully recover from severe anxiety, depression, trauma and addiction.
(520) 438-7162 View (520) 438-7162
Photo of Tonya Meeks, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tonya Meeks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
La Jolla, CA 92037
I have extensive experience with dual diagnosis, addiction, & complex trauma. I have worked in private practice & residential and primary psychological treatment centers. I work as a drama therapist combining my clinical & performance background. I specialize in family working entire family system. I have direct and empathetic approach. Since becoming a mother I also, work on those areas specifically. In addition, I love working with artists, creative, and those wishing to explore or develop those areas. I know we are all creative and meant to be creating. I have a very intuitive nature with depth psychotherapist training.
I have extensive experience with dual diagnosis, addiction, & complex trauma. I have worked in private practice & residential and primary psychological treatment centers. I work as a drama therapist combining my clinical & performance background. I specialize in family working entire family system. I have direct and empathetic approach. Since becoming a mother I also, work on those areas specifically. In addition, I love working with artists, creative, and those wishing to explore or develop those areas. I know we are all creative and meant to be creating. I have a very intuitive nature with depth psychotherapist training.
(760) 642-5233 View (760) 642-5233
Photo of Jaime Carrillo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Carrillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Jolla, CA 92037  (Online Only)
Hi there, my name is Jaime Carrillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe having someone to talk to is incredibly important. I try to offer a warm and collaborative approach with my clients, and provide a safe and non judgmental space to work through whatever struggles you are facing.
Hi there, my name is Jaime Carrillo and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). I believe having someone to talk to is incredibly important. I try to offer a warm and collaborative approach with my clients, and provide a safe and non judgmental space to work through whatever struggles you are facing.
(424) 378-5481 View (424) 378-5481
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.