Therapists in Pitkin County, CO
![Photo of Kelsey Koenig Carder, MS, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4816f25e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Koenig Carder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
Aspen, CO 81611
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, with a certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy. I work with individuals 3 years old and up. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Most of my work entails treating symptoms of trauma, depression and anxiety. I also offer parenting consultation and skill building. For those interested, I offer canine-assisted therapy services. I will work with you to uncover, reduce or eliminate whatever barriers are getting in the way of achieving the lifestyle you want.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, with a certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy. I work with individuals 3 years old and up. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. Most of my work entails treating symptoms of trauma, depression and anxiety. I also offer parenting consultation and skill building. For those interested, I offer canine-assisted therapy services. I will work with you to uncover, reduce or eliminate whatever barriers are getting in the way of achieving the lifestyle you want.
![Photo of Stephanie Rae Morris, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f8f4569-74b0-44fd-be21-0bed4db95946/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Rae Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Snowmass Village, CO 81615
I love the dynamic, creative, organic and untidy nature of this work. I am inspired by those who, show up, hang their mask at the door, and enter with authenticity and strength. It is an honor to be allowed into this space with someone, and I consider myself lucky to be invited. I am passionate and committed to my work as an Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I use a holistic and integrative approach that encompasses mind, body and spirit.
I love the dynamic, creative, organic and untidy nature of this work. I am inspired by those who, show up, hang their mask at the door, and enter with authenticity and strength. It is an honor to be allowed into this space with someone, and I consider myself lucky to be invited. I am passionate and committed to my work as an Expressive Arts Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I use a holistic and integrative approach that encompasses mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Christina Grandy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e04fb94-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are seeking Individual Counseling (adult, teen, child, or toddler) or Couples Counseling, I can guide you to develop the courage, trust, and self-appreciation needed to live the life you were meant to, a life aligned with your deepest values. If you are stressed, anxious, or depressed, you can learn to regulate your nervous system and regain your original spark. Together we will bring to light your innate wisdom and strengths.
If you are seeking Individual Counseling (adult, teen, child, or toddler) or Couples Counseling, I can guide you to develop the courage, trust, and self-appreciation needed to live the life you were meant to, a life aligned with your deepest values. If you are stressed, anxious, or depressed, you can learn to regulate your nervous system and regain your original spark. Together we will bring to light your innate wisdom and strengths.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Roslynn Regnery, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4166d9fd-8585-4b80-9c1f-d2983d5069dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Roslynn Regnery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80304
Nature-Based Therapies are my main jam! I also draw from Synergetic Play Therapy, Hokomi, Sand Tray, Gestalt, Body Awareness, and Mindfulness.
I am currently accepting clients ages 3-10 AND 20-65 who deal with depression and anxiety. I creatively support gender and racially diverse clients, including students, mamas, papas, children, and adults making life transitions. I love working in nature with art, stories, and metaphors. My clients often deal with grief, lack of confidence, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and boundaries. In therapy, we take these wounds and uncover their “Golden Shadow.”
Nature-Based Therapies are my main jam! I also draw from Synergetic Play Therapy, Hokomi, Sand Tray, Gestalt, Body Awareness, and Mindfulness.
I am currently accepting clients ages 3-10 AND 20-65 who deal with depression and anxiety. I creatively support gender and racially diverse clients, including students, mamas, papas, children, and adults making life transitions. I love working in nature with art, stories, and metaphors. My clients often deal with grief, lack of confidence, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and boundaries. In therapy, we take these wounds and uncover their “Golden Shadow.”
![Photo of Bree Bessette - Holistic And Spiritual Counseling, MA, LLPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/645926e8-bd11-474e-8bf9-e446fc21d5b4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bree Bessette - Holistic And Spiritual Counseling
Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boulder, CO 80304
I use a transpersonal approach informed by affective neuroscience, attachment theory, Internal Family Systems, and Gestalt therapy, with an emphasis on Mindfulness and Body Centered Techniques.
Starting the healing process is challenging and takes courage. Within all of us is a drive or desire to become whole, happy and connected to our self and our world. I see the importance of integrating all parts and aspects of our Self and becoming more whole and complete human beings. This journey into wholeness in the realization of our potential, underpins our personal journey of transformation and healing. This philosophy is at the core of my approach.
I use a transpersonal approach informed by affective neuroscience, attachment theory, Internal Family Systems, and Gestalt therapy, with an emphasis on Mindfulness and Body Centered Techniques.
Starting the healing process is challenging and takes courage. Within all of us is a drive or desire to become whole, happy and connected to our self and our world. I see the importance of integrating all parts and aspects of our Self and becoming more whole and complete human beings. This journey into wholeness in the realization of our potential, underpins our personal journey of transformation and healing. This philosophy is at the core of my approach.
![Photo of Spenser Williams, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb7dacdc-3e04-4718-92e0-9939aca18d84/2/320x400.jpeg)
Spenser Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
I offer support for kids using play therapy, teenagers with humanistic and mindfulness skills, and adults with Mindfulness, CBT, and Gestalt.
I specialize in working with teenagers and kids who are having issues in their lives. Acting out, anger, depression, anxiety, these are all obstacles that can be overcome with care, support, and the help of a professional.
I offer support for kids using play therapy, teenagers with humanistic and mindfulness skills, and adults with Mindfulness, CBT, and Gestalt.
I specialize in working with teenagers and kids who are having issues in their lives. Acting out, anger, depression, anxiety, these are all obstacles that can be overcome with care, support, and the help of a professional.
![Photo of Laura Thompson-Beato, MA, LPCC, NCC, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5aa77e8a-17d4-4d08-bfd8-fffe26cd4b11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Thompson-Beato
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evergreen, CO 80439
I'm trained in EMDR, CBT, Client Centered & Gestalt play therapy, and therapy for neurodiverse individuals.
I love working with individual clients of all ages. I worked with children as a teacher for years, using humor and play, but I realized the relationship is really what I valued about the work; so I left teaching and became a counselor! Through humor and compassion, my style is up front, working side-by-side with clients of all ages. In addition to talk therapy, we might also use expressive arts, play, or incorporation of other activities based on whatever the client needs.
I'm trained in EMDR, CBT, Client Centered & Gestalt play therapy, and therapy for neurodiverse individuals.
I love working with individual clients of all ages. I worked with children as a teacher for years, using humor and play, but I realized the relationship is really what I valued about the work; so I left teaching and became a counselor! Through humor and compassion, my style is up front, working side-by-side with clients of all ages. In addition to talk therapy, we might also use expressive arts, play, or incorporation of other activities based on whatever the client needs.
![Photo of Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker (Latina-Bilingual), MA, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24b3d238-fca2-4d80-9ce7-f70cf23d0a82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mili Sarmiento Shoemaker (Latina-Bilingual)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frisco, CO 80443
My systemic-focused approach includes Gestalt Therapy, Family Constellation, EMDR, and Synergetic Play Therapy.
I was born and raised in Argentina. I'm a bilingual, cross-cultural and international therapist and supervisor. My background allows me to navigate the challenges and benefits of being in one place and experience more than one culture at the same time. I have always held a profound curiosity about human psychology, relationships, child development, and the intricate tapestry of family and social dynamics. I am committed to guiding and supporting clients on the profound journey of understanding and embracing their family dynamics, recognizing their place within it, and learning how to take what they need from it to thrive in life
My systemic-focused approach includes Gestalt Therapy, Family Constellation, EMDR, and Synergetic Play Therapy.
I was born and raised in Argentina. I'm a bilingual, cross-cultural and international therapist and supervisor. My background allows me to navigate the challenges and benefits of being in one place and experience more than one culture at the same time. I have always held a profound curiosity about human psychology, relationships, child development, and the intricate tapestry of family and social dynamics. I am committed to guiding and supporting clients on the profound journey of understanding and embracing their family dynamics, recognizing their place within it, and learning how to take what they need from it to thrive in life
![Photo of Elizabeth Dianne Aubert - Credence Counseling Services, LLC., MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0235597-265c-418f-aa8c-5e884f7021bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Credence Counseling Services, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Junction, CO 81505
We are a team of mental health clinicians working together to serve the Grand Valley. Our clinicians provide both in-person and telehealth services to best meet the needs of our clientele. Our clinicians accept most insurances and our supervised LPCCs/LCSWs are able to accept Medicaid and Second Wind Funding. Our team members employ a variety of skills and techniques in therapy, including EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, ACT, Geek Therapeutics, CAMS, and Play Therapy. Please refer to our website for more information about our clinicians and their areas of specialty. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and elderly.
We are a team of mental health clinicians working together to serve the Grand Valley. Our clinicians provide both in-person and telehealth services to best meet the needs of our clientele. Our clinicians accept most insurances and our supervised LPCCs/LCSWs are able to accept Medicaid and Second Wind Funding. Our team members employ a variety of skills and techniques in therapy, including EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, ACT, Geek Therapeutics, CAMS, and Play Therapy. Please refer to our website for more information about our clinicians and their areas of specialty. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, couples, and elderly.
![Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da5173f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
![Photo of Chana Halberg, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06153065-085a-4b40-bc75-2a700a1f2404/3/320x400.jpeg)
I feel passionately about working with the range of human experience. In working with children I feel that parent involvement is crucial for the success of therapy. I'm aware that parenting is extremely difficult and I aspire to support parents in that. I enjoy working with parents who are open to working on the way that their own struggles impact their ability to parent compassionately and effectively. Many of the teens and adults I work with are looking to heal from developmental trauma. Symptoms which stem from childhood trauma can present in numerous ways such as: depression, anxiety, relational difficulties, etc.
I feel passionately about working with the range of human experience. In working with children I feel that parent involvement is crucial for the success of therapy. I'm aware that parenting is extremely difficult and I aspire to support parents in that. I enjoy working with parents who are open to working on the way that their own struggles impact their ability to parent compassionately and effectively. Many of the teens and adults I work with are looking to heal from developmental trauma. Symptoms which stem from childhood trauma can present in numerous ways such as: depression, anxiety, relational difficulties, etc.
![Photo of Chris Woodward, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403bfa0c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a seasoned and experienced Counselor, I take a holistic (comprehensive) approach in psychotherapy focusing on all parts of a person which includes the emotional, social, biological, environmental, spiritual/philosophical (meaning and purpose), and psychological components that make us whole. And if you are in need of psychiatric medications, I work with a Psychiatrist in the area and you will have access to this service.
As a seasoned and experienced Counselor, I take a holistic (comprehensive) approach in psychotherapy focusing on all parts of a person which includes the emotional, social, biological, environmental, spiritual/philosophical (meaning and purpose), and psychological components that make us whole. And if you are in need of psychiatric medications, I work with a Psychiatrist in the area and you will have access to this service.
![Photo of Ellen Geoffrion, MA, LPC, R-DMT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/486e41ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Geoffrion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lyons, CO 80540
I believe that you have innate goodness and worth, coupled with the need to be seen and valued for your creativity and unique contributions. It requires strength to find more clarity and possibility in your life, and I honor your courage. With my patient and innovative counseling methods, I will support you to remember and revitalize those aspects of yourself that may have become forgotten and lost. My warm and engaging style not only enables you to become aware of your limiting self-judgments, but also provides the necessary encouragement and tools for creating empowered, life-affirming, and embodied transformation.
I believe that you have innate goodness and worth, coupled with the need to be seen and valued for your creativity and unique contributions. It requires strength to find more clarity and possibility in your life, and I honor your courage. With my patient and innovative counseling methods, I will support you to remember and revitalize those aspects of yourself that may have become forgotten and lost. My warm and engaging style not only enables you to become aware of your limiting self-judgments, but also provides the necessary encouragement and tools for creating empowered, life-affirming, and embodied transformation.
![Photo of Theresa R Yu, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49dccead-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a clinical director and independent contractor. I provide online telehealth, home-based & office-based counseling services with children, teens, and families with history of trauma/abuse/neglect, special needs, Autism Spectrum Disorders/Aspergers, and other behavioral problems/issues. I use traditional approaches and biofeedback approaches. I also works with adults, couples and families for a variety of issues. I have worked in several fields including as a social worker, foster/adoptive specialist for DHS, Elem. School Special Education paraprofessional, pre-k teacher, and behavioral health rehabilitation/case manager.
I am a clinical director and independent contractor. I provide online telehealth, home-based & office-based counseling services with children, teens, and families with history of trauma/abuse/neglect, special needs, Autism Spectrum Disorders/Aspergers, and other behavioral problems/issues. I use traditional approaches and biofeedback approaches. I also works with adults, couples and families for a variety of issues. I have worked in several fields including as a social worker, foster/adoptive specialist for DHS, Elem. School Special Education paraprofessional, pre-k teacher, and behavioral health rehabilitation/case manager.
![Photo of Kevin Schlegel - Oak Tree Behavioral Services, PsyD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f7fe70a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Oak Tree Behavioral Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80228
Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Inc. is known throughout Colorado in diagnosing, and treating treating mental health conditions. Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Inc, provides: Individual Therapy, Marriage Therapy, and Testing. Interventions target problematic behavior, cognitions, and emotional dysregulation. Treatments are pragmatic, evidence-based and interventions that address the factors that contribute to the personal adversity. Therapeutic style is marked mutual collaboration, fresh perspective taking, active teaching, and warmth. Clinicians are committed to tailoring strategies to build upon client's unique qualities, concerns, and circumstances. We strive to provide the direction needed to not only cope, but to "own" challenges and strengths.
Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Inc. is known throughout Colorado in diagnosing, and treating treating mental health conditions. Oak Tree Behavioral Services, Inc, provides: Individual Therapy, Marriage Therapy, and Testing. Interventions target problematic behavior, cognitions, and emotional dysregulation. Treatments are pragmatic, evidence-based and interventions that address the factors that contribute to the personal adversity. Therapeutic style is marked mutual collaboration, fresh perspective taking, active teaching, and warmth. Clinicians are committed to tailoring strategies to build upon client's unique qualities, concerns, and circumstances. We strive to provide the direction needed to not only cope, but to "own" challenges and strengths.
![Photo of Camille L. Reich, PhD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3da58cbe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
COUPLES, FAMILY, CHILD and INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. True Happiness and Stability Stems from the Quality of our Significant Relationships! I work from a strength-based, solution-focused, and systemic or relational orientation, all are evidence-based approaches. I focus on people's strengths and possibilities while addressing their real life difficulties. I also practice child-centered play therapy and provide personality, relationship (couple) and career assessments. I believe in a holistic approach to the therapeutic process that incorporates biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions empowering a person or family towards mastering life to its fullest. I look forward to consulting with you!
![Photo of Jacque Maben - Finding Hiawatha Animal Assisted Therapy, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf50afdf-4412-4d05-b5c3-62068738c8ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding Hiawatha Animal Assisted Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CO 80215
Waitlist for new clients
We provide equine and animal-assisted psychotherapy for individuals, couples, parents, and groups of all ages. Animal interactive sessions offer an experiential approach that goes beyond traditional talk therapy to help restore balance in people’s lives. Animal-assisted psychotherapy helps alleviate a variety of mental health issues that include abuse, trauma, Foster/Adoption issues, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, socialization issues, and communication problems.
We provide equine and animal-assisted psychotherapy for individuals, couples, parents, and groups of all ages. Animal interactive sessions offer an experiential approach that goes beyond traditional talk therapy to help restore balance in people’s lives. Animal-assisted psychotherapy helps alleviate a variety of mental health issues that include abuse, trauma, Foster/Adoption issues, PTSD, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, socialization issues, and communication problems.
![Photo of Tonya McFarland, PsyD, CEDS, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e7364f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stop beating yourself up! We all engage in some unhealthy behaviors at times and we don't need to feel ashamed of these struggles. Maybe we cope with stress by having an unhealthy relationship with food (binging, purging, restricting) or by engaging in self-destructive patterns in an attempt to deal with our extreme feelings. I can help you process your past traumas and allow you to create a new path for yourself based on self-compassion. The world doesn't have to be a scary, lonely place.
Stop beating yourself up! We all engage in some unhealthy behaviors at times and we don't need to feel ashamed of these struggles. Maybe we cope with stress by having an unhealthy relationship with food (binging, purging, restricting) or by engaging in self-destructive patterns in an attempt to deal with our extreme feelings. I can help you process your past traumas and allow you to create a new path for yourself based on self-compassion. The world doesn't have to be a scary, lonely place.
![Photo of Sofia Huston, LPCC , SSP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/530554f9-1638-4af0-bd8b-1d19230e08dc/3/320x400.png)
Sofia Huston
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LPCC , SSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, CO 80235
As a University of Colorado Denver graduate, I proudly hold my Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) and Special Service Provider (SSP) licenses. I integrate evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, solution-focused techniques, and motivational interviewing. My trauma-informed, strength-based approach supports clients from all backgrounds. I’m passionate about working with adolescents, individuals, and couples, helping them navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve meaningful growth.
As a University of Colorado Denver graduate, I proudly hold my Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) and Special Service Provider (SSP) licenses. I integrate evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, narrative therapy, solution-focused techniques, and motivational interviewing. My trauma-informed, strength-based approach supports clients from all backgrounds. I’m passionate about working with adolescents, individuals, and couples, helping them navigate challenges, build resilience, and achieve meaningful growth.
![Photo of Marian Pierce, LPC, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12c8def0-2b4e-47e3-a7e4-05aaa1ce1472/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am continually inspired by the resilience, courage, and humanity that define us all. As your therapist, my commitment is to collaborate with you in uncovering and nurturing the innate wisdom that already exists within you. Together, we can challenge the barriers that stand in your way, cultivate resilience and strength, and forge a path towards a life of greater balance, fulfillment, and purpose.
I am continually inspired by the resilience, courage, and humanity that define us all. As your therapist, my commitment is to collaborate with you in uncovering and nurturing the innate wisdom that already exists within you. Together, we can challenge the barriers that stand in your way, cultivate resilience and strength, and forge a path towards a life of greater balance, fulfillment, and purpose.
See more therapy options for Pitkin County
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.