Gestalt Therapists in Long Beach, CA

Photo of Sandy L. Kaufmann, LMFT, CAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandy L. Kaufmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAS
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
My clients are reporting rapid reduction of symptoms with ETT and Gestalt therapy.
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
My clients are reporting rapid reduction of symptoms with ETT and Gestalt therapy.
Treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief and loss, and specialize in the field of addiction. Over 35 continuous years working with drug, alcohol, sex, and love addiction. Trained in Emotional Transformation Therapy, "ETT" (ETT Addiction Certified) my clients receive rapid removal of symptoms and addictive cravings in many cases. With this exciting new cutting edge therapy, people are removing distressing symptoms that they have unsuccessfully attempted to remove for many years, in only minutes to a few sessions. I also use Gestalt Therapy for healing and teach my clients tools to use at home. I am also trained in EMDR since the early 90's.
(562) 669-4595 View (562) 669-4595
Photo of Andrea Cairella, LPCC, Counselor
Andrea Cairella
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2007 who is a Certified EMDR Therapist & Consultant, Advanced trained Emotionally Focused Therapist for Couples and Families, Ketamine Assisted Therapy, MAPS, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Advanced trained in Gestalt Therapy, so I am able to personalize and tailor the therapy to each clients individual needs.
Do you desire inner harmony, life satisfaction & greater joy in your life? Are you ready to heal from your emotional pain & enhance the quality of your life and relationships? As a compassionate therapist, I can guide you along your healing journey. I am dedicated to helping my clients succeed, experience inner peace, self-acceptance, joy, hope and love. I am intuitive, empathetic, multicultural & multilingual with over 10 years of experience. My specialty areas include: anxiety, PTSD/trauma, attachment issues, depression, addiction, relationship issues (couples and families), grief & loss and self-esteem issue for adults, children & adolescents.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2007 who is a Certified EMDR Therapist & Consultant, Advanced trained Emotionally Focused Therapist for Couples and Families, Ketamine Assisted Therapy, MAPS, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Advanced trained in Gestalt Therapy, so I am able to personalize and tailor the therapy to each clients individual needs.
Do you desire inner harmony, life satisfaction & greater joy in your life? Are you ready to heal from your emotional pain & enhance the quality of your life and relationships? As a compassionate therapist, I can guide you along your healing journey. I am dedicated to helping my clients succeed, experience inner peace, self-acceptance, joy, hope and love. I am intuitive, empathetic, multicultural & multilingual with over 10 years of experience. My specialty areas include: anxiety, PTSD/trauma, attachment issues, depression, addiction, relationship issues (couples and families), grief & loss and self-esteem issue for adults, children & adolescents.
(562) 732-4936 View (562) 732-4936
Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
Aside from traditional talk therapy, I am trained in using Voice Dialogue, NARM, TF-CBT, dream work, Gestalt Therapy, and mindfulness.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Aside from traditional talk therapy, I am trained in using Voice Dialogue, NARM, TF-CBT, dream work, Gestalt Therapy, and mindfulness.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(562) 553-8818 View (562) 553-8818
Photo of Hailey Hunter, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hailey Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803
We will work toward your goals in a judgement free space using trauma informed, integrative and gestalt therapy with a dash of education and empowerment.
Whatever life may be putting you through, I am glad you found your way here. Maybe you feel overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, poor body image, intense emotions, or a whole list of other struggles that may feel unacceptable. As a client centered therapist, I am overjoyed to welcome all parts of you with open arms, warmth, and kindness. My goal is never to change you, just simply to know you.
We will work toward your goals in a judgement free space using trauma informed, integrative and gestalt therapy with a dash of education and empowerment.
Whatever life may be putting you through, I am glad you found your way here. Maybe you feel overwhelmed with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, poor body image, intense emotions, or a whole list of other struggles that may feel unacceptable. As a client centered therapist, I am overjoyed to welcome all parts of you with open arms, warmth, and kindness. My goal is never to change you, just simply to know you.
(949) 749-5106 View (949) 749-5106
Photo of Erika Carter, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erika Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807  (Online Only)
I integrate techniques from CBT, Gestalt, Family Systems, Art Therapy, Solution-focused, and other therapeutic approaches to provide you with the tools you need to grow, persevere, and thrive.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
I integrate techniques from CBT, Gestalt, Family Systems, Art Therapy, Solution-focused, and other therapeutic approaches to provide you with the tools you need to grow, persevere, and thrive.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
(424) 381-0277 View (424) 381-0277
Photo of Bella Boas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bella Boas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
My name is Bella Boas, LMFT. I meet you exactly where you are and work with you to determine the optimal tools to reach your goals. I will create a safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and education in combination with the process is empowering. I am passionate about working with motivated, dedicated teens, individuals, couples, and marriages who are pursuing health. I have an eclectic approach grounded in Person-Centered and Gestalt. Brainspotting is a powerful and effective tool for working with trauma and overall efficient processing.
My name is Bella Boas, LMFT. I meet you exactly where you are and work with you to determine the optimal tools to reach your goals. I will create a safe space where you can authentically show up with no judgment, shame, or guilt. Equipping clients with tools and education in combination with the process is empowering. I am passionate about working with motivated, dedicated teens, individuals, couples, and marriages who are pursuing health. I have an eclectic approach grounded in Person-Centered and Gestalt. Brainspotting is a powerful and effective tool for working with trauma and overall efficient processing.
(805) 600-3821 View (805) 600-3821
Photo of Ericka Franklin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ericka Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90745
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with clients living with a range of experiences which often include healing Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), self-discovery and acceptance within oppressive systems, finding wholeness after narcissistic abuse, and strengthening the heart after the loss of a loved one. To assist, I use an eclectic approach that can include theories from EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and the Internal Family System. When artfully combined, these principles help to awaken change and ripple out improvement in the internal and external realities.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with clients living with a range of experiences which often include healing Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), self-discovery and acceptance within oppressive systems, finding wholeness after narcissistic abuse, and strengthening the heart after the loss of a loved one. To assist, I use an eclectic approach that can include theories from EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and the Internal Family System. When artfully combined, these principles help to awaken change and ripple out improvement in the internal and external realities.
(310) 340-7530 View (310) 340-7530
Photo of Ann Anderson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90803
Aside from traditional talk therapy, I am trained in using Voice Dialogue, NARM, TF-CBT, dream work, Gestalt Therapy, and mindfulness.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
Aside from traditional talk therapy, I am trained in using Voice Dialogue, NARM, TF-CBT, dream work, Gestalt Therapy, and mindfulness.
Nobody’s childhood dream was to grow up and feel overwhelmed, alone, stuck or unworthy. I aim to help individuals heal from trauma-related issues such as anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues. If you find yourself living without a navigation system to understand emotional terrain or trauma that impacts your well-being; you are not alone. All of us go through rough patches in our lives. My approach is specific to meet your unique needs in a safe and non-judgemental space.
(714) 975-5767 View (714) 975-5767
Photo of Lori M Downing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori M Downing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90808
Are life’s struggles causing you to feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed, dissatisfied, or alone? I can help you find hope and healing, and a way forward. I truly believe the connection between therapist and client is essential to successful therapy and connecting with my clients - is my greatest asset. I do this by providing a caring, non-judgmental, supportive presence and a listening ear. In this safe place, I come alongside adult individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Co-dependency, Elder and Caregiving Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Faith Issues and help them move forward.
Are life’s struggles causing you to feel overwhelmed, confused, distressed, dissatisfied, or alone? I can help you find hope and healing, and a way forward. I truly believe the connection between therapist and client is essential to successful therapy and connecting with my clients - is my greatest asset. I do this by providing a caring, non-judgmental, supportive presence and a listening ear. In this safe place, I come alongside adult individuals dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Co-dependency, Elder and Caregiving Issues, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Self-Esteem, Faith Issues and help them move forward.
(657) 255-8172 View (657) 255-8172
Photo of Glenn Philip Ferdinand, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Glenn Philip Ferdinand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
If you are dealing with depression & anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, or any other issue(s) that may be impacting your emotional well-being, therapy may help. I use a “client centered” approach, that will help you develop insight into how the past may be affecting your present, re-frame your thinking to give you a different perspective, and actively process any unresolved pain. Therapy can help you get "unstuck" as you begin to heal and move forward in your life. I provide a safe space in which we can start on this journey together, in a confidential, caring, non-judgmental environment.
If you are dealing with depression & anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, or any other issue(s) that may be impacting your emotional well-being, therapy may help. I use a “client centered” approach, that will help you develop insight into how the past may be affecting your present, re-frame your thinking to give you a different perspective, and actively process any unresolved pain. Therapy can help you get "unstuck" as you begin to heal and move forward in your life. I provide a safe space in which we can start on this journey together, in a confidential, caring, non-judgmental environment.
(562) 444-1423 View (562) 444-1423
Photo of Icinda Siqueira-Darwin, PhD,, Psychologist
Icinda Siqueira-Darwin
Psychologist, PhD,
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90815
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
My usual clients are young adults, under 45 years age,(I do see children and elders), experiencing mood disorders such as depression, or anxiety. Substance abuse issues are frequently involved, or alcohol abuse. There are always relationship issues with others involved as well. The Goals of Therapy include feeling happier, calmer, more at peace, to reducing substance abuse and alcohol abuse. They want to learn how to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(562) 303-5525 View (562) 303-5525
Photo of Irene Lara - Irene Lara - Integrative Therapy, PsyD, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Irene Lara - Integrative Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90807
All is Possible, with Gentleness. -Todo es posible con paciencia.- I am so glad that you are making a big difference in your life. What a courageous and honorable decision. Would you like to call me? Let's have a conversation, & see if we are a good fit. Allow me to embark with you on this journey. Want better sleep? Oxygenate the body. Plus, Breath-Body-Mind meditation taught: Improve Creativity, have more internal Mental, Emotional, Financial Stability, increase Focus and concentration, eliminate trauma, improve Confidence and Relationships. Hope to speak soon. - - Favor de llamarme para tener una conversacion mas profunda.
All is Possible, with Gentleness. -Todo es posible con paciencia.- I am so glad that you are making a big difference in your life. What a courageous and honorable decision. Would you like to call me? Let's have a conversation, & see if we are a good fit. Allow me to embark with you on this journey. Want better sleep? Oxygenate the body. Plus, Breath-Body-Mind meditation taught: Improve Creativity, have more internal Mental, Emotional, Financial Stability, increase Focus and concentration, eliminate trauma, improve Confidence and Relationships. Hope to speak soon. - - Favor de llamarme para tener una conversacion mas profunda.
(323) 739-7975 View (323) 739-7975
Photo of Virginia Sanchez - Bright House Therapy Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bright House Therapy Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90822  (Online Only)
Bright House Therapy Services is a private practice dedicated to supporting individuals with their mental health. We are an inclusive, open, friendly, bilingual, and affirming agency. Let us partner with you to meet your goals. We are experienced working with LGBTQ community, veterans, Department of Child and Family Services, individuals with Psychiatric Diagnosis of Bipolar, and Domestic Violence Victims.
Bright House Therapy Services is a private practice dedicated to supporting individuals with their mental health. We are an inclusive, open, friendly, bilingual, and affirming agency. Let us partner with you to meet your goals. We are experienced working with LGBTQ community, veterans, Department of Child and Family Services, individuals with Psychiatric Diagnosis of Bipolar, and Domestic Violence Victims.
(562) 268-4595 View (562) 268-4595
Photo of Linda Y Cortes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Y Cortes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than 20 years' experience of helping adults from different cultures and ethnicities overcome life's challenges. I will support and encourage you, while you are on the path to gaining insights and growing into a healthier you. I have worked with people at all stages of life with many of issues such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders; parenting issues; trauma, and life transitions. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT); Solutions Focused Therapy; Family systems therapy and Mindful-based therapy. Habló Español.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with more than 20 years' experience of helping adults from different cultures and ethnicities overcome life's challenges. I will support and encourage you, while you are on the path to gaining insights and growing into a healthier you. I have worked with people at all stages of life with many of issues such as: depression, anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders; parenting issues; trauma, and life transitions. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT); Solutions Focused Therapy; Family systems therapy and Mindful-based therapy. Habló Español.
(562) 362-5462 View (562) 362-5462
Photo of Doreen Shawntell Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Doreen Shawntell Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a mental health professional, I am driven by a deep commitment to serving all communities, especially the Black and Brown communities. Through my work, I aim to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals from diverse backgrounds to share their stories, process their traumas, and cultivate resilience. I am dedicated to addressing any systemic barriers that have affected these communities I am passionate about integrating cultural humility, intersectionality, and trauma-informed care into my practice.
As a mental health professional, I am driven by a deep commitment to serving all communities, especially the Black and Brown communities. Through my work, I aim to create a safe and inclusive space for individuals from diverse backgrounds to share their stories, process their traumas, and cultivate resilience. I am dedicated to addressing any systemic barriers that have affected these communities I am passionate about integrating cultural humility, intersectionality, and trauma-informed care into my practice.
View
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Clinton Scheidt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Clinton Scheidt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802
I’ve always had a passion for helping queer folx get through the challenges that come with being queer-identified in a heteronormative society. My mission is to create a safe, warm, nonjudgmental setting for queer folx and allies to address the struggles that life has served up. Whether you need coping skills to improve daily functioning, want to gain insight into deeper issues, desire more security in your relationship, or require relief from sexual troubles, my focus is on you and your intentions. Therapy is not an easy road, but I intend to travel with you on the journey, no matter how difficult.
I’ve always had a passion for helping queer folx get through the challenges that come with being queer-identified in a heteronormative society. My mission is to create a safe, warm, nonjudgmental setting for queer folx and allies to address the struggles that life has served up. Whether you need coping skills to improve daily functioning, want to gain insight into deeper issues, desire more security in your relationship, or require relief from sexual troubles, my focus is on you and your intentions. Therapy is not an easy road, but I intend to travel with you on the journey, no matter how difficult.
(424) 339-0508 View (424) 339-0508
Photo of Luis W Maimoni, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Luis W Maimoni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90807
Hi. My name is Luis Maimoni. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in relationships of all kinds. Relationships with partners, with friends and family, and with co-workers are vital parts of our lives. When our relationships are great, we feel great. When our relationships are "having difficulties" or "experiencing challenges", so are we. If you're reading this, my guess is that one or more of your relationships is not in the "great" category. I can relate.
Hi. My name is Luis Maimoni. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in relationships of all kinds. Relationships with partners, with friends and family, and with co-workers are vital parts of our lives. When our relationships are great, we feel great. When our relationships are "having difficulties" or "experiencing challenges", so are we. If you're reading this, my guess is that one or more of your relationships is not in the "great" category. I can relate.
(562) 469-5467 View (562) 469-5467
Photo of Veronica Calkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(833) 918-2676 View (833) 918-2676
Photo of Edith Lilianie Mejia, ACSW
Edith Lilianie Mejia
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
My ideal client seeks empathetic guidance to navigate challenges related to trauma, mood disorders, mother hunger based on the work of Kelly McDaniel and motherhood. They desire a safe, judgment-free space to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and foster resilience. Motivated by the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment, they are ready for positive change and personal growth.
My ideal client seeks empathetic guidance to navigate challenges related to trauma, mood disorders, mother hunger based on the work of Kelly McDaniel and motherhood. They desire a safe, judgment-free space to explore their emotions, develop coping skills, and foster resilience. Motivated by the pursuit of happiness and fulfillment, they are ready for positive change and personal growth.
View
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.