Gestalt Therapists in La Mesa, CA

Photo of Virgina (Ginny) Powell, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virgina (Ginny) Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
I have intensive training in Gestalt Therapy, Ericksonian Clinical Hypnosis, Play Therapy, EMDR, Lifespan Integration, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
After 30 years of practice, I remain excited about new clients, new treatment approaches, and the joy of a client leaving my office with a smile and thank-you. I believe in being in the moment, being present, creating true and authentic contact, and facilitating opportunities for my clients to develop deeper understandings and practical skills. I work with a wide range of human problems, and enjoy the diversity that my practice has deliberately maintained. I work in an eclectic manner. I think meditation, laughter and play, are great for what ails us.
I have intensive training in Gestalt Therapy, Ericksonian Clinical Hypnosis, Play Therapy, EMDR, Lifespan Integration, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
After 30 years of practice, I remain excited about new clients, new treatment approaches, and the joy of a client leaving my office with a smile and thank-you. I believe in being in the moment, being present, creating true and authentic contact, and facilitating opportunities for my clients to develop deeper understandings and practical skills. I work with a wide range of human problems, and enjoy the diversity that my practice has deliberately maintained. I work in an eclectic manner. I think meditation, laughter and play, are great for what ails us.
(619) 377-8842 View (619) 377-8842
Photo of Michelle Marie Kilcoyne, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CMP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Marie Kilcoyne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CMP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91941
The somatic/relational modalities I incorporate - Natural Processing (somatic EMDR), NeuroAffective Touch, Gestalt Practice - are effective in addressing relational/attachment issues, transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, grief, PTSD, complex PTSD & integration of peak experiences.
I offer presence, kindness, lots of time and space, and some great tools to support your organism's natural impulse to return to a balanced state. Often that rebalancing has been trying to happen for a while, but the conditions haven't been quite right. I'm here to support you in listening deeply to your inner wisdom (body, mind, heart, soul, energy field) and support you in finding a sense of capacity and presence and joy in your life.
The somatic/relational modalities I incorporate - Natural Processing (somatic EMDR), NeuroAffective Touch, Gestalt Practice - are effective in addressing relational/attachment issues, transitions, anxiety, panic, depression, grief, PTSD, complex PTSD & integration of peak experiences.
I offer presence, kindness, lots of time and space, and some great tools to support your organism's natural impulse to return to a balanced state. Often that rebalancing has been trying to happen for a while, but the conditions haven't been quite right. I'm here to support you in listening deeply to your inner wisdom (body, mind, heart, soul, energy field) and support you in finding a sense of capacity and presence and joy in your life.
(805) 919-8671 View (805) 919-8671
Photo of Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Irenda Rios Immigration Evaluation Evaluaciones Inmigracion
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
Mental health, addiction and traumas can be treated with the appropriate psychotherapy. With thirteen years of experience in the field, I have had the opportunity to work with clients who have different problems, needs and objectives. People of all ages, ethnicities and cultures; therefore, giving me the opportunity to develop a deeper understanding on how to detect and treat various conditions. Psychotherapy helps people to go through a recovery process without problems.
(619) 304-3617 View (619) 304-3617
Photo of Whittney Robertson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Whittney Robertson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
Life circumstances and relationships can sometimes be difficult to navigate. Whether you are dealing with new stressors, ongoing challenges, seeking clarity in relationship dynamics, or wanting to learn more about yourself, I am here to provide help! My belief is that through a supportive and safe environment, people can work through and process their personal challenges while recognizing their strengths and abilities. My passion is to help others help themselves through addressing both mind and body on the journey of moving from suffering to supportive healing.
Life circumstances and relationships can sometimes be difficult to navigate. Whether you are dealing with new stressors, ongoing challenges, seeking clarity in relationship dynamics, or wanting to learn more about yourself, I am here to provide help! My belief is that through a supportive and safe environment, people can work through and process their personal challenges while recognizing their strengths and abilities. My passion is to help others help themselves through addressing both mind and body on the journey of moving from suffering to supportive healing.
(858) 302-4049 View (858) 302-4049
Photo of Alex Bailey, LPCC, MA, CEAP, Counselor
Alex Bailey
Counselor, LPCC, MA, CEAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
I believe in emphasizing one’s own unique spiritual journey as the primary source of knowing; that there is nothing needed to “fix,” but rather an opportunity to explore with newfound curiosity and connection. Collaborating with our natural environment and translating what is discussed during our time in into lived experiences is incredibly powerful and useful for sustained growth and learning.
I believe in emphasizing one’s own unique spiritual journey as the primary source of knowing; that there is nothing needed to “fix,” but rather an opportunity to explore with newfound curiosity and connection. Collaborating with our natural environment and translating what is discussed during our time in into lived experiences is incredibly powerful and useful for sustained growth and learning.
(619) 404-4533 View (619) 404-4533
Photo of Julie M Hayden, MRS, MACP, PsyD, Psychologist
Julie M Hayden
Psychologist, MRS, MACP, PsyD
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
Addiction is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a person. I have worked with many people with various addictions and realize that addressing one problem from one perspective is not enough. I specialize in getting to know a person first and then helping that person heal from past hurts, learn skills for problem-solving, improve communication, build strong relationships, practice ways to manage strong emotions, learn to slow down and change their harmful or intrusive thoughts, draw from their faith for strength, develop strong support systems, and with all this, hope of long-term recovery can become reality.
Addiction is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a person. I have worked with many people with various addictions and realize that addressing one problem from one perspective is not enough. I specialize in getting to know a person first and then helping that person heal from past hurts, learn skills for problem-solving, improve communication, build strong relationships, practice ways to manage strong emotions, learn to slow down and change their harmful or intrusive thoughts, draw from their faith for strength, develop strong support systems, and with all this, hope of long-term recovery can become reality.
(844) 262-8310 View (844) 262-8310
Photo of Jingqi ( Joy ) Hu, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jingqi ( Joy ) Hu
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT), I strive to provide a comforting and peaceful space for individuals and families to navigate their personal journeys. My focus lies in offering culturally sensitive therapy, rooted in evidence-based practices to aid in healing and growth. I deeply value creating a safe environment where clients can freely explore their challenges and triumphs, guiding them through cultural nuances, communication obstacles, and generational differences with a gentle hand.
As an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT), I strive to provide a comforting and peaceful space for individuals and families to navigate their personal journeys. My focus lies in offering culturally sensitive therapy, rooted in evidence-based practices to aid in healing and growth. I deeply value creating a safe environment where clients can freely explore their challenges and triumphs, guiding them through cultural nuances, communication obstacles, and generational differences with a gentle hand.
(858) 290-4933 View (858) 290-4933
Photo of David Slier, PhD,  , FAAETS, CBSM, Psychologist
David Slier
Psychologist, PhD, , FAAETS, CBSM
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I welcome working collaboratively with you to help build a deeper understanding and appreciation of yourself, to develop a capacity to witness your important and often traumatic past events, and to realize your potential for growth. As therapist, I attempt to provide a safe environment for you to be heard and believed as this process of discovering meaning in implicit memories unfolds. I believe that it is important that the therapeutic experience provides hope, safety and connection, allowing clients to build a sense of integrity in body, feelings and mind.
I welcome working collaboratively with you to help build a deeper understanding and appreciation of yourself, to develop a capacity to witness your important and often traumatic past events, and to realize your potential for growth. As therapist, I attempt to provide a safe environment for you to be heard and believed as this process of discovering meaning in implicit memories unfolds. I believe that it is important that the therapeutic experience provides hope, safety and connection, allowing clients to build a sense of integrity in body, feelings and mind.
(619) 431-3874 View (619) 431-3874
Jan Slack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
Our emotional health is so important. It affects how we navigate each day — from how we perform at work to how we interact with the people in our lives. Depression, anxiety, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) can be debilitating and keep us from experiencing healthy and fulfilling relationships. Trauma, abuse and self-injurious behavior, both in the past and going on today, also have a huge affect on how we function. And issues in our relationships can stop us from moving forward – whether it’s our marriage, with our children or family members or our friends. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained to help
Our emotional health is so important. It affects how we navigate each day — from how we perform at work to how we interact with the people in our lives. Depression, anxiety, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) can be debilitating and keep us from experiencing healthy and fulfilling relationships. Trauma, abuse and self-injurious behavior, both in the past and going on today, also have a huge affect on how we function. And issues in our relationships can stop us from moving forward – whether it’s our marriage, with our children or family members or our friends. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained to help
(619) 831-6034 View (619) 831-6034
Photo of Nancy Ly - Be Free with Nancy Ly, CHT, CDP
Be Free with Nancy Ly
CHT, CDP
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
My ideal client has an awareness of their presenting problem (unproductive thought pattern, emotions or behavior), and is ready to release it. The client realizes something is not working and ready to breakthrough their current situation. Many have often tried other traditional therapy or personal development and may even have hit a mental health crisis (anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, rage, etc.) Some clients simply want to level-up their mindset to further their personal, relational or career goals. Many choose to work with me with issues of self-love/confidence, emotional/relational instability, or behavioral change.
My ideal client has an awareness of their presenting problem (unproductive thought pattern, emotions or behavior), and is ready to release it. The client realizes something is not working and ready to breakthrough their current situation. Many have often tried other traditional therapy or personal development and may even have hit a mental health crisis (anxiety, suicidal thoughts, depression, rage, etc.) Some clients simply want to level-up their mindset to further their personal, relational or career goals. Many choose to work with me with issues of self-love/confidence, emotional/relational instability, or behavioral change.
(760) 274-0658 View (760) 274-0658
Photo of David L Hobby, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David L Hobby
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dr. David Hobby and I'm a board-certified Marriage and Family Therapist.
Hello! My name is Dr. David Hobby and I'm a board-certified Marriage and Family Therapist.
(619) 848-3243 View (619) 848-3243
Photo of Jessica Swerbilow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Swerbilow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I believe that human beings are capable of tremendous growth, love, and connection—and that none of us have to be stuck where we are. No matter where you’re starting from, therapy can support you in breaking out of “stuckness” and discovering more of who you really are. I relate to all of my clients as whole and complete, not broken or needing to be fixed. From that context, I’ll support you in discovering the barriers and obstacles to having your life and relationships really thrive. Together, we’ll explore some of life’s most important questions.
I believe that human beings are capable of tremendous growth, love, and connection—and that none of us have to be stuck where we are. No matter where you’re starting from, therapy can support you in breaking out of “stuckness” and discovering more of who you really are. I relate to all of my clients as whole and complete, not broken or needing to be fixed. From that context, I’ll support you in discovering the barriers and obstacles to having your life and relationships really thrive. Together, we’ll explore some of life’s most important questions.
(619) 486-5761 View (619) 486-5761
Photo of Kasey Bogoje - The Mindful Lemon, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(760) 819-7879 View (760) 819-7879
Photo of Mandy Pfaff, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mandy Pfaff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
I hope to offer you a new experience of therapy! Combining traditional psychodynamic and CBT with the world of somatic techniques, we can truly heal. As an avid researcher, I pull from 30 years of practice and study in various additional psychotherapeutic and health disciplines. Sessions are personalized, combining modalities to fit your specific mental health needs. Sessions can include traditional talk therapy as well as movement-based strategies, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, energy psychology, nutrition and expressive arts. I work with all ages, having had the privilege of treating clients from the age of 4 to 95.
I hope to offer you a new experience of therapy! Combining traditional psychodynamic and CBT with the world of somatic techniques, we can truly heal. As an avid researcher, I pull from 30 years of practice and study in various additional psychotherapeutic and health disciplines. Sessions are personalized, combining modalities to fit your specific mental health needs. Sessions can include traditional talk therapy as well as movement-based strategies, yoga, meditation, biofeedback, energy psychology, nutrition and expressive arts. I work with all ages, having had the privilege of treating clients from the age of 4 to 95.
(619) 612-5654 View (619) 612-5654
Photo of Judy A Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy A Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941  (Online Only)
I commend you for taking the first step in self-discovery and healing! I invite you to share your feelings and emerge with a "Lighter Heart." I want to hear YOUR story. Does the world often overwhelm you? Do you seem to "feel" things deeply or become easily emotional? Then you may be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). HSPs are more prone to over-stimulation, depression, anxiety, addictions and relationship difficulties. As a Highly Sensitive therapist, I can help you to recognize the benefits and hardships of this trait, be more productive, have better relationships, and protect yourself from overwhelm.
I commend you for taking the first step in self-discovery and healing! I invite you to share your feelings and emerge with a "Lighter Heart." I want to hear YOUR story. Does the world often overwhelm you? Do you seem to "feel" things deeply or become easily emotional? Then you may be a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP). HSPs are more prone to over-stimulation, depression, anxiety, addictions and relationship difficulties. As a Highly Sensitive therapist, I can help you to recognize the benefits and hardships of this trait, be more productive, have better relationships, and protect yourself from overwhelm.
(619) 735-7447 View (619) 735-7447
Photo of Isabelle George - Live Inspired Child & Family Therapy, Inc., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Live Inspired Child & Family Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
Through a holistic approach including: Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, and Integrative Nutrition, I support clients in exploring their unique strengths and individual needs. I am a believer in the extraordinary healing powers of play! "The creation of something new is not powered by the intellect, but by the play instinct arising from inner necessity." ~ Carl Jung.
Through a holistic approach including: Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, and Integrative Nutrition, I support clients in exploring their unique strengths and individual needs. I am a believer in the extraordinary healing powers of play! "The creation of something new is not powered by the intellect, but by the play instinct arising from inner necessity." ~ Carl Jung.
(619) 738-6512 View (619) 738-6512
Photo of Deatria Davis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deatria Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
My name is Deatria Davis and I'm an LMFT. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings while moving toward a journey of self-awareness, cultivating resilience, developing interpersonal skills, and the healing needed to form and sustain relationships with oneself and others. I use an integrative approach of CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and other theoretical approaches depending on the client's needs.
My name is Deatria Davis and I'm an LMFT. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, compassion, and non-judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings while moving toward a journey of self-awareness, cultivating resilience, developing interpersonal skills, and the healing needed to form and sustain relationships with oneself and others. I use an integrative approach of CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness, Expressive Arts, and other theoretical approaches depending on the client's needs.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Sheyvon Turner, LPCC
Sheyvon Turner
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91941
Hello, my name is Sheyvon Fullwood Turner and I am the founder of Building Strengths Counseling Services. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Navy veteran. I have been working with children, adolescents, and adults, who have been struggling with adjusting to life changes, managing challenging behaviors and thoughts, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction for the past 8 years. I utilize therapeutic modalities such as play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and brief solution-focused therapy, just to name a few.
Hello, my name is Sheyvon Fullwood Turner and I am the founder of Building Strengths Counseling Services. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Navy veteran. I have been working with children, adolescents, and adults, who have been struggling with adjusting to life changes, managing challenging behaviors and thoughts, relationship issues, trauma, and addiction for the past 8 years. I utilize therapeutic modalities such as play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and brief solution-focused therapy, just to name a few.
(805) 515-3144 View (805) 515-3144
Photo of Mary Jerome, MA, LPCC
Mary Jerome
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Mesa, CA 91942  (Online Only)
If you struggle with emotional problems like grief, anxiety and depression, or behavioral issues such as anger management, I can help you build the skills needed for you to overcome these challenges. You don't have to feel the way you do forever. I can teach you strategies to help you manage your stress, improve your moods and communicate effectively. You can take the steps to improve the quality of your life by allowing me to guide you through the process of change. I’ll help you find emotional freedom, think more positively, act more calmly, and enjoy the confidence that comes with learning how to master your emotions.
If you struggle with emotional problems like grief, anxiety and depression, or behavioral issues such as anger management, I can help you build the skills needed for you to overcome these challenges. You don't have to feel the way you do forever. I can teach you strategies to help you manage your stress, improve your moods and communicate effectively. You can take the steps to improve the quality of your life by allowing me to guide you through the process of change. I’ll help you find emotional freedom, think more positively, act more calmly, and enjoy the confidence that comes with learning how to master your emotions.
(619) 432-3537 View (619) 432-3537
Photo of Joshua Krause, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Krause
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Mesa, CA 91942
Are you being pummeled by the waves of life? Is the tsunami of stress, anxiety, depression, change, grief and loss, leaving you feeling seasick, unmoored, and stuck in fear and survival mode? I'm here to help you get out of your head and into your life. Be it the stressors of divorce and custody, intimacy/relationships/sex and family/partner conflict, death of a loved one/loss of a job, feeling stuck, or navigating the overwhelming existential uncertainties of our world: you are not alone. Together, we will explore your values, meaning, & purpose, develop insight and resilience, and inspire and celebrate your unique inner warrior.
Are you being pummeled by the waves of life? Is the tsunami of stress, anxiety, depression, change, grief and loss, leaving you feeling seasick, unmoored, and stuck in fear and survival mode? I'm here to help you get out of your head and into your life. Be it the stressors of divorce and custody, intimacy/relationships/sex and family/partner conflict, death of a loved one/loss of a job, feeling stuck, or navigating the overwhelming existential uncertainties of our world: you are not alone. Together, we will explore your values, meaning, & purpose, develop insight and resilience, and inspire and celebrate your unique inner warrior.
(619) 941-6785 View (619) 941-6785
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.