Gestalt Therapists in Oakland, CA
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.
Porscha Nichole Castillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
I used a plethora of treatment modalities; CBT, DBT, gestalt, solution focused, EMDR, and many more.
I help clients deal with an array of life problems such as; depression, anxiety, IPV, trauma, assault, chemical dependency, co occurring conditions, maternal and postpartum, infertility, grief, etc. Previous clients have expressed therapy sessions with me have led to; better relationships, solutions to specific problems, and reduction of feelings of stress.
I used a plethora of treatment modalities; CBT, DBT, gestalt, solution focused, EMDR, and many more.
I help clients deal with an array of life problems such as; depression, anxiety, IPV, trauma, assault, chemical dependency, co occurring conditions, maternal and postpartum, infertility, grief, etc. Previous clients have expressed therapy sessions with me have led to; better relationships, solutions to specific problems, and reduction of feelings of stress.
Joshua Pasewaldt, LMFT 106522. I work with couples and individuals, utilizing a combination of tools and skills from multiple therapeutic approaches (cognitive to behavioral therapy, solution-focused, gestalt, and trail-focused cognitive therapy). I have worked with ADHD, anger management, anxiety, dual diagnosis, OCD, addiction, depression, grief and loss, personality disorders, and relationship conflict/distress. My communication style is often described as somewhat conversational with epiphanies that hit deep.
Joshua Pasewaldt, LMFT 106522. I work with couples and individuals, utilizing a combination of tools and skills from multiple therapeutic approaches (cognitive to behavioral therapy, solution-focused, gestalt, and trail-focused cognitive therapy). I have worked with ADHD, anger management, anxiety, dual diagnosis, OCD, addiction, depression, grief and loss, personality disorders, and relationship conflict/distress. My communication style is often described as somewhat conversational with epiphanies that hit deep.
I bring to my work 29 years of continued study and experience in Gestalt Psychotherapy.
I specialize in effective couples therapy. I work with adult individuals, and men with issues in the area of sexuality and intimacy. In working with couples I focus on self-responsibility, communication (listening when listening is hard, self revealing instead of finger-pointing), expectations, self-awareness, and remaining intimate through difficulty. Throughout the whole process I integrate a focus on kindness without abandoning or avoiding the truth. I also specialize in assisting and supporting both men and women with building the skill and ability to feel and share their feelings effectively in intimate relationships.
I bring to my work 29 years of continued study and experience in Gestalt Psychotherapy.
I specialize in effective couples therapy. I work with adult individuals, and men with issues in the area of sexuality and intimacy. In working with couples I focus on self-responsibility, communication (listening when listening is hard, self revealing instead of finger-pointing), expectations, self-awareness, and remaining intimate through difficulty. Throughout the whole process I integrate a focus on kindness without abandoning or avoiding the truth. I also specialize in assisting and supporting both men and women with building the skill and ability to feel and share their feelings effectively in intimate relationships.
Channing Richmond
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to psych therapy is grounded in humanistic theories such as Gestalt and NTU (An African-centered approach to healing and wellness), trauma informed mindfulness based practices, family systems theory, as well as strengths based counseling.
I am an African American, cisgender woman, dedicated to nurturing balance, grounded in ancestral strength and wisdom, and empowering intentional living. I have been employed as a Clinician and Clinical Therapist in the Alameda County community humbly serving school aged children and their families. I hope to support children, adults, families, and couples in this empowering work. It would be my pleasure to support you through your journey towards authentic living.
My approach to psych therapy is grounded in humanistic theories such as Gestalt and NTU (An African-centered approach to healing and wellness), trauma informed mindfulness based practices, family systems theory, as well as strengths based counseling.
I am an African American, cisgender woman, dedicated to nurturing balance, grounded in ancestral strength and wisdom, and empowering intentional living. I have been employed as a Clinician and Clinical Therapist in the Alameda County community humbly serving school aged children and their families. I hope to support children, adults, families, and couples in this empowering work. It would be my pleasure to support you through your journey towards authentic living.
Kendra Feliz Paulsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609 (Online Only)
I use a combination of humanistic/person-centered practices, EMDR, depth psychology, subjective and Gestalt dream work, family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, family constellations, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), and Imago Therapy, among other things.
We all have work to do. We don't have to do it alone. In a safe, non-judgmental environment, I explore with my clients their dreams, artwork, relationships, and daily life experiences, to bring light and insight to blockages and barriers to their full experience and enjoyment of life. Such blockages can be past trauma, incorrect embedded beliefs, injured parts, and/or ingrained thought patterns and habits. Once these things are processed and/or healed, new ways forward can be nurtured.
I use a combination of humanistic/person-centered practices, EMDR, depth psychology, subjective and Gestalt dream work, family systems, cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, family constellations, Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), and Imago Therapy, among other things.
We all have work to do. We don't have to do it alone. In a safe, non-judgmental environment, I explore with my clients their dreams, artwork, relationships, and daily life experiences, to bring light and insight to blockages and barriers to their full experience and enjoyment of life. Such blockages can be past trauma, incorrect embedded beliefs, injured parts, and/or ingrained thought patterns and habits. Once these things are processed and/or healed, new ways forward can be nurtured.
I utilize Somatic, Gestalt, Humanistic, Mindfulness, and EMDR approaches to help you identify, illuminate, and translate the language of your body, increasing your confidence and illuminating your integrity.
I bring forth a comprehensive and compassionate approach to psychotherapy. My practice is rooted in embodiment and practicality, aiming to foster profound insights and sustainable growth. Through a collaborative journey marked by playfulness and genuine curiosity, you will embark on a transformative exploration of your inner world. Together, we will uncover the intricacies of your psyche, guiding you towards a deeper connection with your core self and a heightened sense of resilience.
I utilize Somatic, Gestalt, Humanistic, Mindfulness, and EMDR approaches to help you identify, illuminate, and translate the language of your body, increasing your confidence and illuminating your integrity.
I bring forth a comprehensive and compassionate approach to psychotherapy. My practice is rooted in embodiment and practicality, aiming to foster profound insights and sustainable growth. Through a collaborative journey marked by playfulness and genuine curiosity, you will embark on a transformative exploration of your inner world. Together, we will uncover the intricacies of your psyche, guiding you towards a deeper connection with your core self and a heightened sense of resilience.
Terese (Tess) Louise Roholt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I combine traditional talk therapy with creative methods including drama therapy, psychodrama, embodiment and gestalt.
Whether you are going through some difficult life transitions, struggling with stress, feelings of loneliness, are in a process of recovery and/or have experienced significant trauma, my therapy approach will support you in unpacking difficult emotions to restore a sense a safety and a deeper connection to yourself, others and the world. I am passionate about empowering you to understand and speak your feelings. I work really well with adults in relationship & life-transitions; teens & parents in need of a repaired relationship, and with children who’ve experienced trauma, struggle with big behaviors and/or feelings & their parents.
I combine traditional talk therapy with creative methods including drama therapy, psychodrama, embodiment and gestalt.
Whether you are going through some difficult life transitions, struggling with stress, feelings of loneliness, are in a process of recovery and/or have experienced significant trauma, my therapy approach will support you in unpacking difficult emotions to restore a sense a safety and a deeper connection to yourself, others and the world. I am passionate about empowering you to understand and speak your feelings. I work really well with adults in relationship & life-transitions; teens & parents in need of a repaired relationship, and with children who’ve experienced trauma, struggle with big behaviors and/or feelings & their parents.
As a therapist trained in both Gestalt therapy and EMDR, as well as being a Zen koan meditation teacher, I offer a unique blend of modalities for helping to cultivate the habit of paying attention.
I will interrupt you a lot, that is what meditation does. It interrupts our stories about ourselves and the world around us. I will also listen to you, deeply. That is another way meditation helps, we learn to listen to ourselves deeply. The word akrasia means 'out of control' and is used to describe the way we continue to do things that we know is not in our best interest, or don't do things that we know are in our best interest. Most people feel relief just to know there is word for it. The cause of akrasia is said to be a lack of information and meditation gives us access to the information we need to change.
As a therapist trained in both Gestalt therapy and EMDR, as well as being a Zen koan meditation teacher, I offer a unique blend of modalities for helping to cultivate the habit of paying attention.
I will interrupt you a lot, that is what meditation does. It interrupts our stories about ourselves and the world around us. I will also listen to you, deeply. That is another way meditation helps, we learn to listen to ourselves deeply. The word akrasia means 'out of control' and is used to describe the way we continue to do things that we know is not in our best interest, or don't do things that we know are in our best interest. Most people feel relief just to know there is word for it. The cause of akrasia is said to be a lack of information and meditation gives us access to the information we need to change.
Julian Dodd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618 (Online Only)
The theoretical approaches that I use in my work are: Humanistic ( Gestalt, Client Centered, and Existential), Holistic/Integrative, Relational, and Transpersonal.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between therapist and client, where the relationship is part of the healing process. My style is active, creative, and holistic. I will meet you where you are, not-judging, engaged and curious. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, relationship distress, life transitions, and existential dilemmas (questions about the meaning of life, questions about dying and death). I also have experience working with individuals struggling with dual diagnosis (addiction and mental health issues combined).
The theoretical approaches that I use in my work are: Humanistic ( Gestalt, Client Centered, and Existential), Holistic/Integrative, Relational, and Transpersonal.
I view psychotherapy as a collaborative process between therapist and client, where the relationship is part of the healing process. My style is active, creative, and holistic. I will meet you where you are, not-judging, engaged and curious. I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, shame, relationship distress, life transitions, and existential dilemmas (questions about the meaning of life, questions about dying and death). I also have experience working with individuals struggling with dual diagnosis (addiction and mental health issues combined).
Other theories include relational, existential, archetypal, narrative, Jungian, Gestalt, attachment-based, and transpersonal as well as ACT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a therapist who believes that healing is done within the context of relationship. This includes an individual’s relationship to their body, their environment, and interpersonally. I seek to help empower my clients in order for them to gain confidence in their own capacity to be successful. I hope to offer individuals an opportunity to enrich and find deep meaning in their lives
Other theories include relational, existential, archetypal, narrative, Jungian, Gestalt, attachment-based, and transpersonal as well as ACT and Motivational Interviewing.
I am a therapist who believes that healing is done within the context of relationship. This includes an individual’s relationship to their body, their environment, and interpersonally. I seek to help empower my clients in order for them to gain confidence in their own capacity to be successful. I hope to offer individuals an opportunity to enrich and find deep meaning in their lives
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My work is Gestalt-based, transpersonal, depth-oriented, and relational.
I welcome you to journey inward with the support of another person by your side. In our work together, I hope to make space for all parts of your experience to come forward, especially ones that have seemed unacceptable or unwelcome in society. My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. It is descriptive rather than prescriptive, and focused on the whole person and their environment.
My work is Gestalt-based, transpersonal, depth-oriented, and relational.
I welcome you to journey inward with the support of another person by your side. In our work together, I hope to make space for all parts of your experience to come forward, especially ones that have seemed unacceptable or unwelcome in society. My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. It is descriptive rather than prescriptive, and focused on the whole person and their environment.
I have trained in AEDP, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EFT for couples, PACT (Psychobiological Approach To Couples Therapy) and Gestalt Awareness Practice.
I believe in the healing power of bearing witness to and participating in my clients' self-exploration. Whether we are exploring feelings, systems of oppression and their effects on us, patterns in relationships, or family of origin issues, the strength and compassion of an empathic partner in this journey can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and a relief in symptoms. I bring empathy and mindful curiosity to our work together.
I have trained in AEDP, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EFT for couples, PACT (Psychobiological Approach To Couples Therapy) and Gestalt Awareness Practice.
I believe in the healing power of bearing witness to and participating in my clients' self-exploration. Whether we are exploring feelings, systems of oppression and their effects on us, patterns in relationships, or family of origin issues, the strength and compassion of an empathic partner in this journey can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and a relief in symptoms. I bring empathy and mindful curiosity to our work together.
Keri (Kathryn) Sills-Payne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610 (Online Only)
Are you wanting to feel better once and for all? Maybe you can't move on from the past or you're worried about your future. If anxiety, panic, or even depression is stealing your joy, I get it. If traditional talk therapy hasn't helped you feel better, it's time to try a new approach to heal at the source of your pain. For 12 years I have refined my approach through professional training and experience in Relational- gestalt therapy and Brainspotting (derived from EMDR) while centering social justice and trauma-informed care.
Are you wanting to feel better once and for all? Maybe you can't move on from the past or you're worried about your future. If anxiety, panic, or even depression is stealing your joy, I get it. If traditional talk therapy hasn't helped you feel better, it's time to try a new approach to heal at the source of your pain. For 12 years I have refined my approach through professional training and experience in Relational- gestalt therapy and Brainspotting (derived from EMDR) while centering social justice and trauma-informed care.
Kristin Fialko
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94606 (Online Only)
I work relationally with a trauma-informed lens, incorporating somatic techniques, Gestalt & Parts work, Transpersonal psychology, mindfulness practices, art therapy modalities and a social-justice & anti-racist orientation.
We often find ourselves and bodies, on the path towards health after overwhelming experiences (birth, chronic illness), trauma, grief or loss. Re-igniting our inner-fire and natural emotional balance can understandably be a challenge. Trauma-informed somatic psychotherapy can help! I take my role as a therapist, one who supports the client on their journey, as a facilitator of a sacred collaboration. I conduct therapy with an intention to process and move trauma (anxiety, depression and grief accompanying it) in order to restore balance between the mind, body, and spirit and reignite the internal fire.
I work relationally with a trauma-informed lens, incorporating somatic techniques, Gestalt & Parts work, Transpersonal psychology, mindfulness practices, art therapy modalities and a social-justice & anti-racist orientation.
We often find ourselves and bodies, on the path towards health after overwhelming experiences (birth, chronic illness), trauma, grief or loss. Re-igniting our inner-fire and natural emotional balance can understandably be a challenge. Trauma-informed somatic psychotherapy can help! I take my role as a therapist, one who supports the client on their journey, as a facilitator of a sacred collaboration. I conduct therapy with an intention to process and move trauma (anxiety, depression and grief accompanying it) in order to restore balance between the mind, body, and spirit and reignite the internal fire.
Alexander J Mackenzie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CEAP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
I use psychodynamic, family systems, and object relations techniques, as well as mindfulness, and gestalt.
Life is too short and too precious to suffer needlessly, and therapeutic self-discovery should be joyful at least some of the time. Learning to recognize, communicate, accept,and manage our emotions leads to success and satisfaction in love, health, work, play, and all parts of life. There is no greater satisfaction than learning to be the full, authentic, robust version of yourself in the world. To help you get there, I offer thorough assessment, interactive therapeutic approach, empathy, humor, and flexible technique. Your choice-- come individually, or with your spouse or family. I especially enjoy helping couples communicate better.
I use psychodynamic, family systems, and object relations techniques, as well as mindfulness, and gestalt.
Life is too short and too precious to suffer needlessly, and therapeutic self-discovery should be joyful at least some of the time. Learning to recognize, communicate, accept,and manage our emotions leads to success and satisfaction in love, health, work, play, and all parts of life. There is no greater satisfaction than learning to be the full, authentic, robust version of yourself in the world. To help you get there, I offer thorough assessment, interactive therapeutic approach, empathy, humor, and flexible technique. Your choice-- come individually, or with your spouse or family. I especially enjoy helping couples communicate better.
Adjusting to life's changes and transitions can be overwhelming. You're not alone and, you've taken the first step toward healing. I have been a psychodynamic psychotherapist for over 25 years working with adults, parents and young children. I specialize in treating depression/anxiety, birth trauma, parenting, co-parenting, early childhood mental health, child development, grief, and loss. I utilize the models of Internal Family Systems, Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and for parenting, Filial Therapy, T Berry Brazelton's Touchpoints, Early Childhood Mental Health, Circle of Security, and Fussy Baby.
Adjusting to life's changes and transitions can be overwhelming. You're not alone and, you've taken the first step toward healing. I have been a psychodynamic psychotherapist for over 25 years working with adults, parents and young children. I specialize in treating depression/anxiety, birth trauma, parenting, co-parenting, early childhood mental health, child development, grief, and loss. I utilize the models of Internal Family Systems, Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and for parenting, Filial Therapy, T Berry Brazelton's Touchpoints, Early Childhood Mental Health, Circle of Security, and Fussy Baby.
Syd McClune
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94602 (Online Only)
The foundation of my education is Gestalt Awareness Practice.
I work with sensitive, creative people that often feel like outsiders for one reason or another. Queers. Folks with complex cultural identities. People who have chosen a different path or a different path has chosen them. People who feel stuck in ways that are difficult to articulate. Using various therapeutic modalities, including mindfulness, Esalen-trained Gestalt therapy, transpersonal therapy, and somatically informed attachment relational work I help them find ways to feel better and engage with their lives in newer, deeper ways. I assist them in finding a soft place to land and a sense of trust within themselves.
The foundation of my education is Gestalt Awareness Practice.
I work with sensitive, creative people that often feel like outsiders for one reason or another. Queers. Folks with complex cultural identities. People who have chosen a different path or a different path has chosen them. People who feel stuck in ways that are difficult to articulate. Using various therapeutic modalities, including mindfulness, Esalen-trained Gestalt therapy, transpersonal therapy, and somatically informed attachment relational work I help them find ways to feel better and engage with their lives in newer, deeper ways. I assist them in finding a soft place to land and a sense of trust within themselves.
I also incorporate principles from ACT & Gestalt Therapy.
Are you feeling stuck or unmotivated? Does every decision feel overwhelming to you? Feeling lonely or isolated? In these modern and disconnected times it’s not uncommon to feel… just not right even in the absence of a major life stressor. Many people enter therapy when it’s hard to even put a finger on what’s wrong but you know you haven’t been feeling right. I specialize in working with clients with anxiety, depression, adjusting to life transitions and new medical diagnosis.I approach therapy with compassion, curiosity & warmth. I believe that through exploration comes greater understanding of ourselves & others. With this new
I also incorporate principles from ACT & Gestalt Therapy.
Are you feeling stuck or unmotivated? Does every decision feel overwhelming to you? Feeling lonely or isolated? In these modern and disconnected times it’s not uncommon to feel… just not right even in the absence of a major life stressor. Many people enter therapy when it’s hard to even put a finger on what’s wrong but you know you haven’t been feeling right. I specialize in working with clients with anxiety, depression, adjusting to life transitions and new medical diagnosis.I approach therapy with compassion, curiosity & warmth. I believe that through exploration comes greater understanding of ourselves & others. With this new
Monique 'nikki' Gabuya
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611 (Online Only)
As an Integrative Gestalt therapist, I consider each person the expert of their own experience.
Mental health may not be prioritized in your culture or family; as a 1.5 generation Filipina-American immigrant, I understand the complexities of finding your own path to healing. I work with individuals and couples with relationship conflicts, childhood trauma and systemic wounding. You may have never had the chance to figure out what you want/need—this might show up as anxiety, depression, difficulty forming or keeping relationships or feelings of unworthiness. You’re struggling with feeling stuck and are ready for something different. Together we can explore what needs healing so you may find the ease and health that you deserve.
As an Integrative Gestalt therapist, I consider each person the expert of their own experience.
Mental health may not be prioritized in your culture or family; as a 1.5 generation Filipina-American immigrant, I understand the complexities of finding your own path to healing. I work with individuals and couples with relationship conflicts, childhood trauma and systemic wounding. You may have never had the chance to figure out what you want/need—this might show up as anxiety, depression, difficulty forming or keeping relationships or feelings of unworthiness. You’re struggling with feeling stuck and are ready for something different. Together we can explore what needs healing so you may find the ease and health that you deserve.
See more therapy options for Oakland
Nearby Gestalt Therapists Searches for Oakland
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Castro Valley
- El Cerrito
- Emeryville
- Lafayette
- Moraga
- Orinda
- Piedmont
- San Francisco
- San Leandro
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.