Gestalt Therapists in Redondo Beach, CA
![Photo of Kelly Spagnuolo, MA, LMFT, BSP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c4b8fb6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Spagnuolo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
These include but are not limited to; Brainspotting, EMDR, Somatic, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Inner Child work, Gestalt, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Integrative Body Psychotherapy (IBP), Dream Interpretation, and Guided Meditation.
Kelly Spagnuolo is devoted to helping her clients tap into their unique ability to heal, assisting them in accessing their unlimited potential. Through her unconditional positive regard and compassionate attunement, Kelly is masterful at providing a safe space for healing to occur. Kelly knows first-hand how to heal the wounded parts inside. As a result, she is able to guide her clients on their journey to Self-Discovery, Self-Empowerment, and gracefully facilitates a re-connection to the Authentic Self. Kelly is able to assist her clients with healing on all levels of Consciousness; Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual.
These include but are not limited to; Brainspotting, EMDR, Somatic, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Inner Child work, Gestalt, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Integrative Body Psychotherapy (IBP), Dream Interpretation, and Guided Meditation.
Kelly Spagnuolo is devoted to helping her clients tap into their unique ability to heal, assisting them in accessing their unlimited potential. Through her unconditional positive regard and compassionate attunement, Kelly is masterful at providing a safe space for healing to occur. Kelly knows first-hand how to heal the wounded parts inside. As a result, she is able to guide her clients on their journey to Self-Discovery, Self-Empowerment, and gracefully facilitates a re-connection to the Authentic Self. Kelly is able to assist her clients with healing on all levels of Consciousness; Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual.
![Photo of Nattalie Tehrani, MA, PA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/125d1ce8-9064-4842-80c8-ffc7f6a191eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nattalie Tehrani
Registered Psychological Associate , MA, PA
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
My approach is centered on understanding your unique journey, utilizing EMDR, existentialism, gestalt therapy, psychodynamic perspectives, DBT, and CBT, based on your needs.
Navigating mood disorders, addiction, or entrenched behavioral patterns can leave anyone feeling stuck and in need of meaningful change. Together, we'll address your unique challenges, paving the way for transformative shifts and a renewed sense of self. I adopt a casual and direct style, prioritizing authenticity and mutual respect. Guided by curiosity, I strive to help you identify and reassess behaviors and patterns that may have once been helpful but now impede your growth. Our collaboration will create a space where you can explore, understand, and ultimately transform your life.
My approach is centered on understanding your unique journey, utilizing EMDR, existentialism, gestalt therapy, psychodynamic perspectives, DBT, and CBT, based on your needs.
Navigating mood disorders, addiction, or entrenched behavioral patterns can leave anyone feeling stuck and in need of meaningful change. Together, we'll address your unique challenges, paving the way for transformative shifts and a renewed sense of self. I adopt a casual and direct style, prioritizing authenticity and mutual respect. Guided by curiosity, I strive to help you identify and reassess behaviors and patterns that may have once been helpful but now impede your growth. Our collaboration will create a space where you can explore, understand, and ultimately transform your life.
![Photo of Sharon M. Coulter, MA, PPS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/066ab920-add5-4b72-9ef9-9cd964685b73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon M. Coulter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Life is messy but my philosophy is that even crisis brings great opportunity for growth. Whether you're an adolescent, adult, or couple, our work together integrates therapeutic approaches such as Compassionate/Non-Violent Communication, Tapping (EFT), CBT, EMDR, Gestalt and Internal Family Systems, Hypnosis, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Anxiety and depression are the organism's way of expressing the need for help. Whether you're looking to address past trauma, increase self confidence and self compassion, grieve or nurture a relationship, or support yourself through a life transition, I am here to support you on the journey.
Life is messy but my philosophy is that even crisis brings great opportunity for growth. Whether you're an adolescent, adult, or couple, our work together integrates therapeutic approaches such as Compassionate/Non-Violent Communication, Tapping (EFT), CBT, EMDR, Gestalt and Internal Family Systems, Hypnosis, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Anxiety and depression are the organism's way of expressing the need for help. Whether you're looking to address past trauma, increase self confidence and self compassion, grieve or nurture a relationship, or support yourself through a life transition, I am here to support you on the journey.
![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
Redondo Beach, CA 90278 (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 Geoff La Pointe, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85fd5140-a07a-4406-8126-015cce3e43ab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Geoff La Pointe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I believe growth and transformation often emerge from life's difficulties. The meaning we place on those experiences is of utmost importance. Through a collaborative approach, I integrate various therapeutic modalities such as Existential, Family Systems, Gestalt, Humanistic, IFS, Mindfulness-based, and Narrative. I empower adolescents and young adults to discover their inherent strengths and navigate emotional, cognitive, and behavioral struggles. Whether you're looking to address ADHD, anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief, men's issues, relationship issues, or sports performance, I am here to support you on that journey.
I believe growth and transformation often emerge from life's difficulties. The meaning we place on those experiences is of utmost importance. Through a collaborative approach, I integrate various therapeutic modalities such as Existential, Family Systems, Gestalt, Humanistic, IFS, Mindfulness-based, and Narrative. I empower adolescents and young adults to discover their inherent strengths and navigate emotional, cognitive, and behavioral struggles. Whether you're looking to address ADHD, anxiety, depression, family conflict, grief, men's issues, relationship issues, or sports performance, I am here to support you on that journey.
![Photo of Erin Rieger, LMFT, LEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c3b59a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Rieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (Online Only)
I pull from humanistic therapy, CBT, Gestalt, psychodynamic, systems theory and mindfulness.
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
I pull from humanistic therapy, CBT, Gestalt, psychodynamic, systems theory and mindfulness.
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
![Photo of Cecelia Adams, MS, AMFT, CPRP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fe488fc-4bdc-4f1b-8283-1183241e6fa6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cecelia Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, CPRP
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I believe healing is a compassionate and empowering process, and I am passionate about creating a safe therapeutic relationship based on your specific and unique experiences and needs. I also believe healing is an ongoing process, and that everyone has the power and capability to access their own inner wisdom and inner healer to help effect change.
I believe healing is a compassionate and empowering process, and I am passionate about creating a safe therapeutic relationship based on your specific and unique experiences and needs. I also believe healing is an ongoing process, and that everyone has the power and capability to access their own inner wisdom and inner healer to help effect change.
![Photo of Carmela Floro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8be014ea-d8d2-46d3-b7e2-68bb6687e8d9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carmela Floro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90278 (Online Only)
I can help guide you towards improving important relationships in your life: With yourself, family, at work, in love, and with others. If you are experiencing betrayal, doubt, confusion, sadness, anxiety, anger, loss, fear and hurt, we will look at solutions,options, choices, value, expression, attitudes, negative influences, strengths, abilities, and relations affecting your life. We will explore differences in values, perspective, backgrounds, communication styles, and evaluate trust, honesty, respect, expectations and relational patterns. My work is holistic, integrative, and solution-focused (https://www.carmelaflorolmft.com).
I can help guide you towards improving important relationships in your life: With yourself, family, at work, in love, and with others. If you are experiencing betrayal, doubt, confusion, sadness, anxiety, anger, loss, fear and hurt, we will look at solutions,options, choices, value, expression, attitudes, negative influences, strengths, abilities, and relations affecting your life. We will explore differences in values, perspective, backgrounds, communication styles, and evaluate trust, honesty, respect, expectations and relational patterns. My work is holistic, integrative, and solution-focused (https://www.carmelaflorolmft.com).
![Photo of Linda Thompson - Dr. Linda Thompson, PhD, MA, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41841fcc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
![Photo of Grace Walker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9ee0d8c-617e-4099-9d92-52d9560c3451/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), I focus my practice on clients who struggle with trauma, substance abuse, and personality disorders. I want to assist you with transforming your negative coping (substance abuse, self-harm, disordered eating, risky behaviors) into positive coping that will decrease your feelings of anxiety and detachment and increase your ability to sustain long-term relationships and employ self-love. I believe that many of our negative coping skills are rooted in a history of trauma, which requires careful consideration and a gentle, loving, experienced approach to process fully.
As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT), I focus my practice on clients who struggle with trauma, substance abuse, and personality disorders. I want to assist you with transforming your negative coping (substance abuse, self-harm, disordered eating, risky behaviors) into positive coping that will decrease your feelings of anxiety and detachment and increase your ability to sustain long-term relationships and employ self-love. I believe that many of our negative coping skills are rooted in a history of trauma, which requires careful consideration and a gentle, loving, experienced approach to process fully.
![Photo of Lisa J Stevens, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/452e4c40-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Clients that come with a sense of curiosity and desire for change are ideal. But this curiosity and desire for change can be engendered through relationship, so the perfect client is the client that comes in to therapy!
Clients that come with a sense of curiosity and desire for change are ideal. But this curiosity and desire for change can be engendered through relationship, so the perfect client is the client that comes in to therapy!
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![Photo of Allison Adamovic, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4edbf538-537b-4ca7-9448-8b5e3d298209/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Adamovic
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Feeling inadequate as a new mom? Not feeling heard in your relationship? Not feeling like yourself after a breakup or other hard life event? My specialties are Postpartum Anxiety & Depression, EMDR for Trauma & Self-Esteem issues, Grief & Loss, and Relationships (including Pre-marital counseling). I often use CBT tools, Psychodynamic approach, and Solution-focused techniques. My goal is to support and empower you during life's changing tides. Things never seem to go quite as expected, and it's time to put your needs first.
Feeling inadequate as a new mom? Not feeling heard in your relationship? Not feeling like yourself after a breakup or other hard life event? My specialties are Postpartum Anxiety & Depression, EMDR for Trauma & Self-Esteem issues, Grief & Loss, and Relationships (including Pre-marital counseling). I often use CBT tools, Psychodynamic approach, and Solution-focused techniques. My goal is to support and empower you during life's changing tides. Things never seem to go quite as expected, and it's time to put your needs first.
![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
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
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 Stacey Mackaman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37e11612-0aee-4d9b-be60-9bcac3093ea9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Q Psychology Group's Stacey is committed to working with you to identify and overcome obstacles hindering your growth. She emphasizes personal responsibility and helps you discover what brings meaning and purpose to your life so that you can live in accordance with your authentic values. Stacey approaches her work in a culturally sensitive manner, drawing on her understanding of intergenerational trauma transmission and her advocacy for social and disability justice. Her expertise allows her to work effectively with individuals of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.
Q Psychology Group's Stacey is committed to working with you to identify and overcome obstacles hindering your growth. She emphasizes personal responsibility and helps you discover what brings meaning and purpose to your life so that you can live in accordance with your authentic values. Stacey approaches her work in a culturally sensitive manner, drawing on her understanding of intergenerational trauma transmission and her advocacy for social and disability justice. Her expertise allows her to work effectively with individuals of all ages and from diverse backgrounds.
![Photo of Natalie Pujo, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/452b969a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beginning therapy can feel daunting. I provide a safe and secure place for you to feel comfortable and begin to gently explore what's keeping you stuck or feeling hopeless. I believe that empathy, acceptance and authenticity are the the keys to building a trusting therapist-client relationship. Together we will explore patterns that are no longer working for you, or preventing you from personal growth and healing. I am passionate about embarking on your personal journey of self awareness. I draw on a variety of orientations including Emotion Focused, CBT, and psychodynamic theories and practice in order to meet each client's needs.
Beginning therapy can feel daunting. I provide a safe and secure place for you to feel comfortable and begin to gently explore what's keeping you stuck or feeling hopeless. I believe that empathy, acceptance and authenticity are the the keys to building a trusting therapist-client relationship. Together we will explore patterns that are no longer working for you, or preventing you from personal growth and healing. I am passionate about embarking on your personal journey of self awareness. I draw on a variety of orientations including Emotion Focused, CBT, and psychodynamic theories and practice in order to meet each client's needs.
![Photo of Michael A Pearson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40426c16-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michael A Pearson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Michael has a group practice currently available for phone and video sessions. Michael and his therapists use evidence-based, humanistic, cognitive behavioral and eclectic treatments for depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, substance use disorders, adolescent turmoil, trauma, transitions, grief, self esteem, and other life challenges. The team enjoys working with adults, adolescents and couples. The team uses a non-judgmental, caring, and often uplifting approach that includes mindfulness and an appreciation and respect for diverse clientele, ethnicity, spiritual/religious, orientation and identity issues.
Michael has a group practice currently available for phone and video sessions. Michael and his therapists use evidence-based, humanistic, cognitive behavioral and eclectic treatments for depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, substance use disorders, adolescent turmoil, trauma, transitions, grief, self esteem, and other life challenges. The team enjoys working with adults, adolescents and couples. The team uses a non-judgmental, caring, and often uplifting approach that includes mindfulness and an appreciation and respect for diverse clientele, ethnicity, spiritual/religious, orientation and identity issues.
![Photo of Montana Knapp, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ebe5dd0-235c-4664-8ef5-54c22bf26054/1/320x400.jpeg)
Montana Knapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (Online Only)
There comes a time in everyone’s life when they need help. You are here because you are ready to ask for it, and I am here because I want to put my clinical skills to good use by being the person who helps you rebuild a version of yourself that feels confident and capable. Together, we will work for you to find not happiness, but rather a sense of peace within all versions of yourself and a readiness for the emotional experiences that lay ahead of you.
There comes a time in everyone’s life when they need help. You are here because you are ready to ask for it, and I am here because I want to put my clinical skills to good use by being the person who helps you rebuild a version of yourself that feels confident and capable. Together, we will work for you to find not happiness, but rather a sense of peace within all versions of yourself and a readiness for the emotional experiences that lay ahead of you.
![Photo of Ciana Gonzales, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/520ee9cb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ciana Gonzales
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Unsure of how to move forward due to past pain, current challenges, or future worries? Although seeking therapy can be scary and daunting, I also believe it can be a catalyst for personal growth and change. I want to walk with you on your journey through these experiences that evoke difficult emotions, such as sadness, anger, hurt, and confusion, to help you find your strength through the process.
Are you feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? Unsure of how to move forward due to past pain, current challenges, or future worries? Although seeking therapy can be scary and daunting, I also believe it can be a catalyst for personal growth and change. I want to walk with you on your journey through these experiences that evoke difficult emotions, such as sadness, anger, hurt, and confusion, to help you find your strength through the process.
![Photo of Lesley M Cruz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3f40310-4130-4395-a920-e498eeb722ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lesley M Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Whether you're considering therapy to help you through a rough patch, an unexpected tragic event or work through long standing life issues, the choice to seek help is NOT easy. My goal is to help you uncover your true full potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
Whether you're considering therapy to help you through a rough patch, an unexpected tragic event or work through long standing life issues, the choice to seek help is NOT easy. My goal is to help you uncover your true full potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating.
![Photo of Carissa Lane, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69b94b82-80d0-4eb2-9680-2b0419b3738a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carissa Lane
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I specialize in assisting individuals with trauma, addiction, and life transitions. My practice integrates modern psychological techniques with traditional healing methods to foster emotional regulation and resilience. I aim to transform unhealthy coping mechanisms into strengths that support personal growth and fulfillment. I focus on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit—guiding clients through personal challenges and turning them into opportunities for growth. I believe in empowering you to discover and strengthen your inner resilience, facilitating not just recovery but a profound journey toward self-discovery and lasting change.
I specialize in assisting individuals with trauma, addiction, and life transitions. My practice integrates modern psychological techniques with traditional healing methods to foster emotional regulation and resilience. I aim to transform unhealthy coping mechanisms into strengths that support personal growth and fulfillment. I focus on nurturing the mind, body, and spirit—guiding clients through personal challenges and turning them into opportunities for growth. I believe in empowering you to discover and strengthen your inner resilience, facilitating not just recovery but a profound journey toward self-discovery and lasting change.
See more therapy options for Redondo Beach
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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.