Gestalt Therapists in Palo Alto, CA
I use a number of orientations, from Gestalt and Narrative Therapy, to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral therapy, to build a relationship based on trust, communication, and my knowledge and expertise, to facilitate change.
Therapy can be uncomfortable, and challenging for folks because it causes them to confront unpleasant emotions or memories. Therapy can be helpful because those unpleasant things are often making people's lives difficult, and therapy can help create a place to better understand and deal with those uncomfortable things. I find that I work best with clients that want to address things that make them uncomfortable, but don't know how to do so, or are reluctant to do it alone.
I use a number of orientations, from Gestalt and Narrative Therapy, to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral therapy, to build a relationship based on trust, communication, and my knowledge and expertise, to facilitate change.
Therapy can be uncomfortable, and challenging for folks because it causes them to confront unpleasant emotions or memories. Therapy can be helpful because those unpleasant things are often making people's lives difficult, and therapy can help create a place to better understand and deal with those uncomfortable things. I find that I work best with clients that want to address things that make them uncomfortable, but don't know how to do so, or are reluctant to do it alone.
Heather Freeman
Psychologist, PsyD, ERYT500
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94301 (Online Only)
I am an identity-affirming Gestalt therapist and yoga teacher who views each person as inherently adaptable, resilient, and existing within a variety of intertwined contexts.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Struggling to find joy and connection with things that you used to enjoy? Unsure about how to trust yourself to make wise decisions in terms of relationships, jobs, life decisions, etc.? Do you have a complicated relationship with your body, want to rebuild body trust, find joy in movement again, and heal your relationship with food/exercise? My name is Dr. Heather Freeman and I specialize in working with individuals who want to learn to be on their own team while recovering from disordered eating, learning to build/reclaim body trust, and finding meaningful relationships.
I am an identity-affirming Gestalt therapist and yoga teacher who views each person as inherently adaptable, resilient, and existing within a variety of intertwined contexts.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Struggling to find joy and connection with things that you used to enjoy? Unsure about how to trust yourself to make wise decisions in terms of relationships, jobs, life decisions, etc.? Do you have a complicated relationship with your body, want to rebuild body trust, find joy in movement again, and heal your relationship with food/exercise? My name is Dr. Heather Freeman and I specialize in working with individuals who want to learn to be on their own team while recovering from disordered eating, learning to build/reclaim body trust, and finding meaningful relationships.
Angelique Rochelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT, C148697, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94304
Hi, I'm taking new clients. I work with all ages and I'm trained in trauma based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR. I offer individual and relationship therapy using attachment based therapies, solution-focused brief therapy, and Gestalt self-compassion techniques. I have worked with foster youth, couples, families, veterans, and the LGBTQ community. I have found my work to be professionally rewarding by assisting people in reaching their goals. In addition, I’m committed to advocating for people with disabilities and diverse populations. You can book with me by clicking on my website link.
Hi, I'm taking new clients. I work with all ages and I'm trained in trauma based therapies such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR. I offer individual and relationship therapy using attachment based therapies, solution-focused brief therapy, and Gestalt self-compassion techniques. I have worked with foster youth, couples, families, veterans, and the LGBTQ community. I have found my work to be professionally rewarding by assisting people in reaching their goals. In addition, I’m committed to advocating for people with disabilities and diverse populations. You can book with me by clicking on my website link.
Lacey Marie Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
My role has been a guide and coach for my clients, providing innovative approaches based on Gestalt Method, Ancient Forgiveness Techniques, Psychodynamic Therapy, NLP and Hypnosis.
As a child I was always very sensitive and curious about the world that surrounded me. It came natural to help people and I knew that I wanted to give back to the world at large. Just like you I suffered from some childhood wounds. My parents did the best they could with the tools they had. But due to their struggles I became a very codependent child wanting to save and fix my parents to simply gain the love I desired. Later on I would be able to understand this cycle and name some of the patterns I lived out. People pleasing, losing myself in toxic relationships and not fully loving that little girl inside of me.
My role has been a guide and coach for my clients, providing innovative approaches based on Gestalt Method, Ancient Forgiveness Techniques, Psychodynamic Therapy, NLP and Hypnosis.
As a child I was always very sensitive and curious about the world that surrounded me. It came natural to help people and I knew that I wanted to give back to the world at large. Just like you I suffered from some childhood wounds. My parents did the best they could with the tools they had. But due to their struggles I became a very codependent child wanting to save and fix my parents to simply gain the love I desired. Later on I would be able to understand this cycle and name some of the patterns I lived out. People pleasing, losing myself in toxic relationships and not fully loving that little girl inside of me.
Carmen Roman, PhD (English/Spanish)
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94304 (Online Only)
Based on Gestalt therapy I help my clients to live with awareness, responsibility and in the here-and-now.
Do you want to ease your ANXIETY, Depression, or Trauma? Or maybe improve your creativity, your relationship with your partner, or become more productive? We can work on it. I am a SPANISH/English psychologist with 30+ years of experience in providing psychotherapy in Mexico since 1992. 13 years working in California. I offer you a combination of both cultures and both worlds of psychology. I work for you to feel safe to explore your deepest feelings and tap into your inner wisdom. Tell me about your anxiety, depression, fear, severe trauma, or low self-esteem, I can help.
Based on Gestalt therapy I help my clients to live with awareness, responsibility and in the here-and-now.
Do you want to ease your ANXIETY, Depression, or Trauma? Or maybe improve your creativity, your relationship with your partner, or become more productive? We can work on it. I am a SPANISH/English psychologist with 30+ years of experience in providing psychotherapy in Mexico since 1992. 13 years working in California. I offer you a combination of both cultures and both worlds of psychology. I work for you to feel safe to explore your deepest feelings and tap into your inner wisdom. Tell me about your anxiety, depression, fear, severe trauma, or low self-esteem, I can help.
Mills-Bunje Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94302 (Online Only)
My professional philosophy with regards to physical, mental and sexual health is that everyone should be able to discuss their experiences in a safe environment. Too often people are embarrassed or afraid to discuss these things with anyone and feel isolated. Many people have a difficult time discussing their physical, mental and sexual needs/ issues. My goal is to provide an accepting environment for clients to explore their needs and wants. Therapy is an effective and confidential way to grow as a person and learn healthy ways to connect with others and yourself.
My professional philosophy with regards to physical, mental and sexual health is that everyone should be able to discuss their experiences in a safe environment. Too often people are embarrassed or afraid to discuss these things with anyone and feel isolated. Many people have a difficult time discussing their physical, mental and sexual needs/ issues. My goal is to provide an accepting environment for clients to explore their needs and wants. Therapy is an effective and confidential way to grow as a person and learn healthy ways to connect with others and yourself.
Andrew Gottlieb, PhD Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
Trained at Yale, Stanford, and the University of Washington, I am a PhD Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to teach you skills for dealing with your problems quickly and without drugs. Through CBT, I have helped hundreds of people deal with difficult issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, work issues, marriage and couples problems as well as other issues facing adults, teens, and college students. I utilize a collaborative, supportive approach to teach CBT tools for thinking differently about situations to improve happiness and reduce emotional pain.
Trained at Yale, Stanford, and the University of Washington, I am a PhD Psychologist with over 20 years of experience. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to teach you skills for dealing with your problems quickly and without drugs. Through CBT, I have helped hundreds of people deal with difficult issues, including anxiety, depression, OCD, work issues, marriage and couples problems as well as other issues facing adults, teens, and college students. I utilize a collaborative, supportive approach to teach CBT tools for thinking differently about situations to improve happiness and reduce emotional pain.
I specialize in providing empowering online, Video-Therapy(Telehealth) for adults of all ages and backgrounds. I value diversity, individuality, authenticity, acceptance, and compassion. I build my professional relationship with clients by establishing safety, trust and openness. I see clients with a broad range of difficulties such as personal growth struggles, work stress, stress, health & wellness, anxiety, depression, men's sexual dysfunction, and many others. I utilize a client-centered approach to create an individual plan consisting of a variety of therapeutic modalities to promote change, growth, awareness, and empowerment.
I specialize in providing empowering online, Video-Therapy(Telehealth) for adults of all ages and backgrounds. I value diversity, individuality, authenticity, acceptance, and compassion. I build my professional relationship with clients by establishing safety, trust and openness. I see clients with a broad range of difficulties such as personal growth struggles, work stress, stress, health & wellness, anxiety, depression, men's sexual dysfunction, and many others. I utilize a client-centered approach to create an individual plan consisting of a variety of therapeutic modalities to promote change, growth, awareness, and empowerment.
James Pritchett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
You are immersed in the fast-paced world of tech, where the pressure for innovation and the fear of falling behind can be overwhelming. You find yourself constantly worried about job security and career prospects, leading to sleepless nights, strained relationships, and a diminishing sense of enjoyment in life. The drive to stay ahead has become a source of anxiety, making it challenging to find peace even outside of work. You need accessible resources and practical tools that address these feelings as they arise, whether you're at home, in the office, or out socializing. What you're needing is more than just to manage your stress.
You are immersed in the fast-paced world of tech, where the pressure for innovation and the fear of falling behind can be overwhelming. You find yourself constantly worried about job security and career prospects, leading to sleepless nights, strained relationships, and a diminishing sense of enjoyment in life. The drive to stay ahead has become a source of anxiety, making it challenging to find peace even outside of work. You need accessible resources and practical tools that address these feelings as they arise, whether you're at home, in the office, or out socializing. What you're needing is more than just to manage your stress.
I believe we are relational beings, and health can be cultivated in intentional, honest, and reciprocal relationships that respect and reveal our inherent dignity. Relationships with others and ourselves hold great promise and power, they can also be the focus of our pain as we move through life. The therapeutic relationship we build together acts as a staging ground and microcosm to help you renew the relationships you have with yourself and others in life. To that end, I endeavor to help you see what may be driving you while also reflecting on what uniquely revealed in your relationships and looking to increase capacity for joy.
I believe we are relational beings, and health can be cultivated in intentional, honest, and reciprocal relationships that respect and reveal our inherent dignity. Relationships with others and ourselves hold great promise and power, they can also be the focus of our pain as we move through life. The therapeutic relationship we build together acts as a staging ground and microcosm to help you renew the relationships you have with yourself and others in life. To that end, I endeavor to help you see what may be driving you while also reflecting on what uniquely revealed in your relationships and looking to increase capacity for joy.
I'm a licensed psychotherapist experienced in working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples, and families. I also provide parent guidance to assist parents in promoting their child's well being and improve family communication. I see my role as helping people recognize underlying core issues and blind spots that may be preventing them from achieving a sense of peace and fulfillment. Learning new ways of coping, and of relating to self and others, can further improve confidence and vitality, as well as the capacity to engage in satisfying personal and professional relationships.
I'm a licensed psychotherapist experienced in working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples, and families. I also provide parent guidance to assist parents in promoting their child's well being and improve family communication. I see my role as helping people recognize underlying core issues and blind spots that may be preventing them from achieving a sense of peace and fulfillment. Learning new ways of coping, and of relating to self and others, can further improve confidence and vitality, as well as the capacity to engage in satisfying personal and professional relationships.
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The most fundamental component to effective therapy is having a strong bond with your therapist. When we start therapy together, the first order of business will be establishing that type of bond. From there you will feel the support you need to start exploring the material you've come to therapy to heal.
The most fundamental component to effective therapy is having a strong bond with your therapist. When we start therapy together, the first order of business will be establishing that type of bond. From there you will feel the support you need to start exploring the material you've come to therapy to heal.
Therapy often helps when both the client and therapist put their time and effort into the process. Whether you are bringing a specific issue or you just need an open, non-judgmental space in which to be heard, I’d like to help. To start I’ll find out what you want out of therapy, what’s worked in the past, and what hasn’t. I’ll talk honestly about a timeline and encourage you to ask questions, voice any concerns, clarify your expectations and offer me feedback.
Therapy often helps when both the client and therapist put their time and effort into the process. Whether you are bringing a specific issue or you just need an open, non-judgmental space in which to be heard, I’d like to help. To start I’ll find out what you want out of therapy, what’s worked in the past, and what hasn’t. I’ll talk honestly about a timeline and encourage you to ask questions, voice any concerns, clarify your expectations and offer me feedback.
Therapy is a journey of personal growth and healing. It takes courage and can be challenging, but you don’t have to embark alone. My hope is that, as your therapist, I can be the holder of hope and a source of support. At the root of my work with clients are genuine empathy and human connection. I strive to provide an accepting and safe space for you to express yourself and process what has brought you into therapy.
Therapy is a journey of personal growth and healing. It takes courage and can be challenging, but you don’t have to embark alone. My hope is that, as your therapist, I can be the holder of hope and a source of support. At the root of my work with clients are genuine empathy and human connection. I strive to provide an accepting and safe space for you to express yourself and process what has brought you into therapy.
You’re arguing all the time- 3 years of covid have taken their toll. Or maybe your relationship began during covid and now that things are “normalizing” your relationship suddenly has challenges it never had before. I can help you navigate your relationship (or build a new one!) during these changing times. I use methods based on neuroscience research that have been proven in the field for over 30 years. I can give you tools and teach you skills to communicate in a way where you will feel both seen and heard. The system works—I have seven clients who are now engaged or recently married after working with me!
You’re arguing all the time- 3 years of covid have taken their toll. Or maybe your relationship began during covid and now that things are “normalizing” your relationship suddenly has challenges it never had before. I can help you navigate your relationship (or build a new one!) during these changing times. I use methods based on neuroscience research that have been proven in the field for over 30 years. I can give you tools and teach you skills to communicate in a way where you will feel both seen and heard. The system works—I have seven clients who are now engaged or recently married after working with me!
Healing Self Esteem, Understanding self and learning to cope with challenging life situations; Healing relationships (couple, family, colleague, peer, friendships); Cultural and racial identity, coping with racism, BIPOC concerns, College and graduate student mental health; Eating disorders and body Image; Healing from depression and anxiety; Mindful living and meditation practice.
Healing Self Esteem, Understanding self and learning to cope with challenging life situations; Healing relationships (couple, family, colleague, peer, friendships); Cultural and racial identity, coping with racism, BIPOC concerns, College and graduate student mental health; Eating disorders and body Image; Healing from depression and anxiety; Mindful living and meditation practice.
Lauren Grey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palo Alto, CA 94306 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are seeking support to address your mental health concerns, contact me! Everyone’s mental health challenges or stressors are personal and unique, and therapy is wonderful way to talk about it safely and without judgement. When we work together, we will set achievable goals that focus on hopes and desires for wellness, balance in life, and relief from symptoms that have caused burden on your mental health. My typical clients report experiencing growth in their positive self esteem and establishing skills for tackling life’s stresses in the future. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and healing from trauma.
If you are seeking support to address your mental health concerns, contact me! Everyone’s mental health challenges or stressors are personal and unique, and therapy is wonderful way to talk about it safely and without judgement. When we work together, we will set achievable goals that focus on hopes and desires for wellness, balance in life, and relief from symptoms that have caused burden on your mental health. My typical clients report experiencing growth in their positive self esteem and establishing skills for tackling life’s stresses in the future. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and healing from trauma.
I specialize in working with adults, families, children and teens who are struggling with the ever increasing stress we face on a daily basis. Often symptoms manifest as anxiety and depression, and when one member of the family is in crises or requiring extra care it can take a toll on the whole system. I have worked with families and children who are struggling with mental health for over a decade, and I understand how frustrating it can be to find the right kind of help. I'm here to offer practical solutions and support as we work together to achieve positive changes.
I specialize in working with adults, families, children and teens who are struggling with the ever increasing stress we face on a daily basis. Often symptoms manifest as anxiety and depression, and when one member of the family is in crises or requiring extra care it can take a toll on the whole system. I have worked with families and children who are struggling with mental health for over a decade, and I understand how frustrating it can be to find the right kind of help. I'm here to offer practical solutions and support as we work together to achieve positive changes.
You deserve to feel safe, connected, and understood—something you've deserved for a long time. You looked for love and comfort from those who were supposed to care for you, but instead, you were hurt and let down. It's difficult to put into words the impact of growing up with unmet needs, and it has taken a toll on you. If this resonates with you, healing work around relational trauma and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder could be beneficial.
You deserve to feel safe, connected, and understood—something you've deserved for a long time. You looked for love and comfort from those who were supposed to care for you, but instead, you were hurt and let down. It's difficult to put into words the impact of growing up with unmet needs, and it has taken a toll on you. If this resonates with you, healing work around relational trauma and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder could be beneficial.
I am passionate about supporting my clients in connecting with the essence of who they are, so that they may manifest more freely and fully in the world. I welcome you as a whole being with the capacity to touch into and consciously connect with the intelligence of the healing and transformative forces available to us all. I am interested in meeting you wherever you are in your present experience and supporting your own rhythm and pacing. Our counseling sessions together will offer you an invitation to: deepen self-awareness & grounding in the body, align with what supports you, tap into what inspires you,
I am passionate about supporting my clients in connecting with the essence of who they are, so that they may manifest more freely and fully in the world. I welcome you as a whole being with the capacity to touch into and consciously connect with the intelligence of the healing and transformative forces available to us all. I am interested in meeting you wherever you are in your present experience and supporting your own rhythm and pacing. Our counseling sessions together will offer you an invitation to: deepen self-awareness & grounding in the body, align with what supports you, tap into what inspires you,
See more therapy options for Palo Alto
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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.