Gestalt Therapists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
![Photo of Lori Laurise E Trull, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e759862-ac8f-4f6d-bcbf-013523cb7778/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Laurise E Trull
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
As a Gestalt, DBT, Mindfulness, and a Sensimotor psychotherapist, allow me to Assist you with your past, present and future.
Certified EMDR Clinician seeking motivated Clients! Are you anxious? Depressed? Do you find it difficult to know what you need and want? Or to make decisions? Are you overeating or undereating? Are you fearful of social situations or returning to work? Are you angry or sad a lot? Grieving? These are just Some symptoms that EMDR may be able to alleviate. Life is too short to feel not well, call me today and, let’s begin your healing process!
As a Gestalt, DBT, Mindfulness, and a Sensimotor psychotherapist, allow me to Assist you with your past, present and future.
Certified EMDR Clinician seeking motivated Clients! Are you anxious? Depressed? Do you find it difficult to know what you need and want? Or to make decisions? Are you overeating or undereating? Are you fearful of social situations or returning to work? Are you angry or sad a lot? Grieving? These are just Some symptoms that EMDR may be able to alleviate. Life is too short to feel not well, call me today and, let’s begin your healing process!
![Photo of Meng (Chloe) Shen, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4e6ae96-9f73-4286-a47c-e422ea1b0203/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meng (Chloe) Shen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
I am a therapist specialized in Cultural Differences, Relationship Issues and Grief Support. I value the connections and possibilities that emerge from thoughtful, slow-paced conversations. I am fascinated by the uniqueness of each individual—their strengths in moments of sorrow, their resilience in the face of the impossible. It is an honor and privilege to be trusted with my clients’ personal stories. In my practice, I focus on supporting clients who are grappling with depression, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, and other challenges stemming from life transitions or dilemmas, cultural differences, isolation and disconnections.
I am a therapist specialized in Cultural Differences, Relationship Issues and Grief Support. I value the connections and possibilities that emerge from thoughtful, slow-paced conversations. I am fascinated by the uniqueness of each individual—their strengths in moments of sorrow, their resilience in the face of the impossible. It is an honor and privilege to be trusted with my clients’ personal stories. In my practice, I focus on supporting clients who are grappling with depression, anxiety, self esteem, trauma, and other challenges stemming from life transitions or dilemmas, cultural differences, isolation and disconnections.
![Photo of Christina Morse, MA, LMFT, PPSC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/200e6eb5-7e96-4d41-9772-c5280d775ae2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Morse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PPSC
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
Whether you are facing an immediate life stressor or looking for intentional ways to manage your life, talking with a culturally sensitive and experienced clinician can help you in your journey. I have worked with individuals and families for over 30 years in various capacities and bring expertise in the areas of anxiety and relationship conflict in couples and families. The ways in which I support clients is holistic, individually designed and stems from Humanistic and Mindfulness based approaches. I look forward to supporting your healing, growth and overall wellness.
Whether you are facing an immediate life stressor or looking for intentional ways to manage your life, talking with a culturally sensitive and experienced clinician can help you in your journey. I have worked with individuals and families for over 30 years in various capacities and bring expertise in the areas of anxiety and relationship conflict in couples and families. The ways in which I support clients is holistic, individually designed and stems from Humanistic and Mindfulness based approaches. I look forward to supporting your healing, growth and overall wellness.
![Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca3c1ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
![Photo of Krysta Alarcon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0ae6203-cb16-4007-85b9-538aecc8ba85/1/320x400.png)
My name is Krysta Alarcon, LCSW 121989 I have learned to integrate effective communication and my clinical knowledge as an effective provider and leader to clients and overcome barriers related to behavioral health. I use my critical thinking skills to use when providing leadership and person-centered approach to services to individuals. My passion lies beyond mental health more towards overall well-being and becoming the best version of us in hopes of creating a brighter future.
My name is Krysta Alarcon, LCSW 121989 I have learned to integrate effective communication and my clinical knowledge as an effective provider and leader to clients and overcome barriers related to behavioral health. I use my critical thinking skills to use when providing leadership and person-centered approach to services to individuals. My passion lies beyond mental health more towards overall well-being and becoming the best version of us in hopes of creating a brighter future.
![Photo of Jennifer Seidner, MA, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ebc0ff3-f513-4eaa-8c14-08c37e5e6aff/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Seidner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Sessions can focus on navigating through stressful times, shedding past patterns, looking for growth opportunities or searching for a more balanced life. My areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, anger management, social skills, self-esteem, family dynamics, personal growth, high-stress environments, adoption & medical patient/caregiver support. Let's develop the skills needed to build confidence, improve communication skills, dive deep into bringing out your identity and feel in control of your emotions, create coping skills to build better habits, battle procrastination & have more fulfillment in life.
Sessions can focus on navigating through stressful times, shedding past patterns, looking for growth opportunities or searching for a more balanced life. My areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, anger management, social skills, self-esteem, family dynamics, personal growth, high-stress environments, adoption & medical patient/caregiver support. Let's develop the skills needed to build confidence, improve communication skills, dive deep into bringing out your identity and feel in control of your emotions, create coping skills to build better habits, battle procrastination & have more fulfillment in life.
![Photo of Carol Ann Francis, PsyD, MA, MFTT, CHT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b80f8e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Relief from anxiety, depression, fears or angers gives you room to live your life fully. Self-improvement (your mind, body, self-esteem, capacity for satisfying/exciting relationships and powerful career advances) can move you leaps and bounds toward a richer, lively life. Eliminating habits (smoking, over-eating, lack of exercise, substances, etc) frees you to be you. Creating new paths after divorce, death, traumatic disruptions, leads toward a self-directed future. Through many different therapeutic approaches--well researched and tested-- you can attain your goals & dreams for your fuller, peaceful life. www.drcarolfrancis.com or call 310-543-1824.
Relief from anxiety, depression, fears or angers gives you room to live your life fully. Self-improvement (your mind, body, self-esteem, capacity for satisfying/exciting relationships and powerful career advances) can move you leaps and bounds toward a richer, lively life. Eliminating habits (smoking, over-eating, lack of exercise, substances, etc) frees you to be you. Creating new paths after divorce, death, traumatic disruptions, leads toward a self-directed future. Through many different therapeutic approaches--well researched and tested-- you can attain your goals & dreams for your fuller, peaceful life. www.drcarolfrancis.com or call 310-543-1824.
![Photo of Jeanette Buller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24924b90-8609-4d61-86db-448ee26396ca/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jeanette Buller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Hi there, I'm Jeanette Buller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Jeanette's approach to therapy includes seeing you as a whole person, taking into account who you are now and the version of yourself you wish to achieve. Together, we will work on strategies to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful connections to what is most important for you. I look forward to hearing your story and connecting with you in our therapy session.
Hi there, I'm Jeanette Buller, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Jeanette's approach to therapy includes seeing you as a whole person, taking into account who you are now and the version of yourself you wish to achieve. Together, we will work on strategies to address the root causes of your difficulties and build meaningful connections to what is most important for you. I look forward to hearing your story and connecting with you in our therapy session.
![Photo of Archelena McDonald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/688f71fb-d23c-4fa9-8e76-1d997c34f959/1/320x400.png)
Archelena McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
My name is Archelena McDonald (the preferred name is Dee Dee), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I currently work with adults and specialize in providing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, psychosis, grief and loss, PTSD, and couples/family counseling. Therapy is never a "one size fits all," so I try to partner with my client to help identify desired areas of growth.
My name is Archelena McDonald (the preferred name is Dee Dee), and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California, and serving clients statewide via telehealth. I currently work with adults and specialize in providing treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, psychosis, grief and loss, PTSD, and couples/family counseling. Therapy is never a "one size fits all," so I try to partner with my client to help identify desired areas of growth.
![Photo of Savannah M Fine, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20799204-2948-48ec-96a8-ba53b9732a07/2/320x400.jpeg)
Savannah M Fine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
Hello! My name is Savannah M. Fine and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 139871 and a Certified Sex Therapist supporting human beings in the state of California. I am polyam, ENM, kink and LGBTQ+ affirming, and I work with individuals, partners, and families who are looking to form a deeper understanding of themselves, their relationships, and their communities. I understand that healing and growth looks different for each individual and hope to provide the support necessary for your mind, body, and soul.
![Photo of Anna Askew, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28a9113c-7e2d-4d65-bcbb-ecfff8670a1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Askew
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
My name is Anna Askew, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California, working with individual adults and couples statewide via telehealth. My main specialization is in anxiety, stress, and relationship and communication issues, using a holistic approach to therapy. I use different empirically based methodologies in accordance with the particular needs of each client. However, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are at the forefront of my interventions, as I have found them to be a good basis for building forward progress.
My name is Anna Askew, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California, working with individual adults and couples statewide via telehealth. My main specialization is in anxiety, stress, and relationship and communication issues, using a holistic approach to therapy. I use different empirically based methodologies in accordance with the particular needs of each client. However, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are at the forefront of my interventions, as I have found them to be a good basis for building forward progress.
![Photo of Vanessa Sanchez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a83d9ec9-7ffe-460a-a57a-aaf1398a4f9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with many adults, young adults, and children struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, and life transitions. By allowing me to help you trust the process of therapy we can work on what your needs may be. When we listen wholeheartedly without judgment, we can become aware and attempt to understand what someone may be feeling. The value of helping others can also give someone hope that there is something to look forward to. That's what drives me toward empathy and compassion.
I have experience working with many adults, young adults, and children struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, addiction, and life transitions. By allowing me to help you trust the process of therapy we can work on what your needs may be. When we listen wholeheartedly without judgment, we can become aware and attempt to understand what someone may be feeling. The value of helping others can also give someone hope that there is something to look forward to. That's what drives me toward empathy and compassion.
![Photo of Gary Schapper, MA, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d2c4e72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gary Schapper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (Online Only)
Are your worried, rushed, easily losing your temper, crashing in hopelessness, and/or uncertain of who you are and what is your purpose in life? I use a mindfulness therapy that helps you to: 1) notice when unhelpful aspects of your past are presenting themselves in the present; 2) understand, notice, and temper all of your feelings; 3) create new stories in your life; 4) embrace love at its deepest levels; 5) improve relationships and communications in all areas of your life.
Are your worried, rushed, easily losing your temper, crashing in hopelessness, and/or uncertain of who you are and what is your purpose in life? I use a mindfulness therapy that helps you to: 1) notice when unhelpful aspects of your past are presenting themselves in the present; 2) understand, notice, and temper all of your feelings; 3) create new stories in your life; 4) embrace love at its deepest levels; 5) improve relationships and communications in all areas of your life.
![Photo of Beverly Jean Scott - Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor, BS, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c090bf9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
![Photo of Patricia Rayas-Tabres - Hillside Counseling Center, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a73acd0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hillside Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
![Photo of Patricia Rayas-Tabares - Hillside Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43d21ea8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hillside Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
If you are struggling in your marriage/relationships or life has become too stressful and you are ready to make a change to bring hope, peace, and balance into your life, I may be able to help. My goal is to provide you with an environment that fosters change. I strive to create a safe place where you can feel free to explore, take risks, and grow in the process. I want you to feel the sense of confidence and peace that we will work on topics that have caused you pain, sadness, frustration, or anxiety. Together, we will embark on a journey towards happiness and fulfillment.
If you are struggling in your marriage/relationships or life has become too stressful and you are ready to make a change to bring hope, peace, and balance into your life, I may be able to help. My goal is to provide you with an environment that fosters change. I strive to create a safe place where you can feel free to explore, take risks, and grow in the process. I want you to feel the sense of confidence and peace that we will work on topics that have caused you pain, sadness, frustration, or anxiety. Together, we will embark on a journey towards happiness and fulfillment.
![Photo of Gregory Allen, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cdb83eb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gregory Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I understand that life can be difficult and at times and even overwhelming. My goal is to be a genuine support to you and help you learn new ways to cope through your struggles. I have extensive experience in helping people who are facing difficult experiences. I believe you have the ability to make your life better, to grow as a person and to overcome your current struggles.
I understand that life can be difficult and at times and even overwhelming. My goal is to be a genuine support to you and help you learn new ways to cope through your struggles. I have extensive experience in helping people who are facing difficult experiences. I believe you have the ability to make your life better, to grow as a person and to overcome your current struggles.
Katheryn Whittaker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I’m a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
I’m a California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC).
![Photo of Matthew D Fenn, AMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb2008bd-28c3-4c60-bce2-3c8acd2f65c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew D Fenn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Waitlist for new clients
I received my BA from Chapman University and an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. I am currently enrolled in a Clinical Psychology PhD program at Alliant University. I have multiple years of experience working with diverse individuals and couples facing a wide variety of experiences. I have primarily worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and personality disorders as well as trauma, abuse, and intimate partner violence. I work from a holistic orientation utilizing a variety of methodologies including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic orientations.
I received my BA from Chapman University and an MS in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern California. I am currently enrolled in a Clinical Psychology PhD program at Alliant University. I have multiple years of experience working with diverse individuals and couples facing a wide variety of experiences. I have primarily worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and personality disorders as well as trauma, abuse, and intimate partner violence. I work from a holistic orientation utilizing a variety of methodologies including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic orientations.
![Photo of Savanna (Uranga) Green, MA, PsyD, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20227a71-3b3f-44eb-ab84-dc9087b6742f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Savanna (Uranga) Green
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, PsyD, AMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Fear is normal when starting therapy. We fear vulnerability, judgment, and labeling. But it’s in therapy that we learn how to live our most authentic lives, achieve our goals, and set needed boundaries while processing ongoing stressors. There is a gardening approach to mental health; seeds are like our emotions. We want to grow them but don’t have direct control over them. The factors that we can control are our thoughts and behaviors. They are the environment in which our emotions grow. Let’s work together by planting tiny seeds to grow your goals. Permit yourself to take up space and bloom wildly without regret.
Fear is normal when starting therapy. We fear vulnerability, judgment, and labeling. But it’s in therapy that we learn how to live our most authentic lives, achieve our goals, and set needed boundaries while processing ongoing stressors. There is a gardening approach to mental health; seeds are like our emotions. We want to grow them but don’t have direct control over them. The factors that we can control are our thoughts and behaviors. They are the environment in which our emotions grow. Let’s work together by planting tiny seeds to grow your goals. Permit yourself to take up space and bloom wildly without regret.
See more therapy options for Rancho Palos Verdes
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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.