Gestalt Therapists in 90401
![Photo of Georgea Robin Muschel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6889b79d-9142-4a92-a536-3e2e723b826e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have additional training in Gestalt Therapy, Stress Management, CBT/DBT and EMDR.
I am interested in seeing anyone who needs help with major life transitions or who is in the midst of a life crisis. I also encourage people who are not in crisis but interested in improving the quality of their life and to enhance their overall well being. Besides being in private practice I have also worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I believe in using an eclectic approach, with a multitude of modalities, to help people, in a safe setting, clarify their issues, gain greater insight and assist them in finding their own solutions and coping skills. Most of my clients report feeling better in a short time.
I have additional training in Gestalt Therapy, Stress Management, CBT/DBT and EMDR.
I am interested in seeing anyone who needs help with major life transitions or who is in the midst of a life crisis. I also encourage people who are not in crisis but interested in improving the quality of their life and to enhance their overall well being. Besides being in private practice I have also worked in inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I believe in using an eclectic approach, with a multitude of modalities, to help people, in a safe setting, clarify their issues, gain greater insight and assist them in finding their own solutions and coping skills. Most of my clients report feeling better in a short time.
![Photo of Elyssa Hays, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ab840f1-a0a5-433d-9e8c-84f3415d9e7f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elyssa Hays
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I will pull from attachment theory, mindfulness, gestalt, and CBT approaches along with neuroscience research to help you to manage stress and experience deep emotional change.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in sexual problems, life transitions, relational difficulties, self esteem, pregnancy and sexuality, and trauma. I am a sex positive therapist and I use evidence based approaches along with relational therapy to help treat people dealing with anxiety and depression disorders.
I will pull from attachment theory, mindfulness, gestalt, and CBT approaches along with neuroscience research to help you to manage stress and experience deep emotional change.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in sexual problems, life transitions, relational difficulties, self esteem, pregnancy and sexuality, and trauma. I am a sex positive therapist and I use evidence based approaches along with relational therapy to help treat people dealing with anxiety and depression disorders.
![Photo of Rae C Hipolito, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bb1f19e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rae C Hipolito
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
Create joy and inner calm in your life. My role is to guide you in coming back to your wholeness. I am passionate about helping you heal your wounded parts. This wounding may show up as depression, anxiety, or PTSD in adulthood. My approach is heart-based; it is a fusion of experiential, somatic/body-oriented (releasing emotional pain which is stored in our bodies), gestalt, cognitive behavioral, EMDR, hypnosis, and internal family systems approaches. I don't focus on analyzing nor intellectualizing your past. We visit the past to let go of any pain or heal trauma.
Create joy and inner calm in your life. My role is to guide you in coming back to your wholeness. I am passionate about helping you heal your wounded parts. This wounding may show up as depression, anxiety, or PTSD in adulthood. My approach is heart-based; it is a fusion of experiential, somatic/body-oriented (releasing emotional pain which is stored in our bodies), gestalt, cognitive behavioral, EMDR, hypnosis, and internal family systems approaches. I don't focus on analyzing nor intellectualizing your past. We visit the past to let go of any pain or heal trauma.
![Photo of Lorraine T Sterman - Lorraine T. Sterman, Ph.D. and Associates, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c019e17-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine T. Sterman, Ph.D. and Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally I have trained at the Gestalt Institute of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Institute and Society for Psychoanalytic Training.
My background includes specialty areas of Adult and Adolescent Psychology (Individuals, Families, Couples) Eating Disorders, and Geropsychology. Since I have been in the field for many years as a Psychologist and Nurse Practitioner, I understand medical as well as psychological factors and how working through these Improves our everyday lives.
Additionally I have trained at the Gestalt Institute of Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Institute and Society for Psychoanalytic Training.
My background includes specialty areas of Adult and Adolescent Psychology (Individuals, Families, Couples) Eating Disorders, and Geropsychology. Since I have been in the field for many years as a Psychologist and Nurse Practitioner, I understand medical as well as psychological factors and how working through these Improves our everyday lives.
![Photo of John Barone, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0588e350-2047-4b9d-a13d-39b966e65b9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
John Barone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
My approach towards therapy includes person-centered, Gestalt therapy, mindfulness, and Somatic psychotherapy.
If you are looking to start therapy you have begun to take the first step in your healing journey. As someone who has always had a passion for helping others, becoming a therapist has allowed me to help the communities that matter most to me.
My approach towards therapy includes person-centered, Gestalt therapy, mindfulness, and Somatic psychotherapy.
If you are looking to start therapy you have begun to take the first step in your healing journey. As someone who has always had a passion for helping others, becoming a therapist has allowed me to help the communities that matter most to me.
![Photo of Kelsi Elizabeth Dahn, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/860892a0-e66b-4c16-88c8-97198a4e08ce/4/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsi Elizabeth Dahn
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
I draw upon my extensive training in various therapeutic and philosophic approaches, including Gestalt therapy, existential philosophy, nonviolent communication, narrative therapy, somatic and yogic practice, 12-step recovery, and group therapy.
Tired of waking up staring out into the abyss staring back at you? Being a human is hard, no matter how you go about it, and trying to make meaning out of the chaos can be overwhelming. I support my clients to align with their Authentic Self, while collaboratively honoring and transforming anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and other feelings or behaviors that seem out of balance with everyday life. I believe that coming from a place of authenticity opens the door to a wider range of possibilities for your life path, and makes interpersonal relationships along the journey better and more fulfilling.
I draw upon my extensive training in various therapeutic and philosophic approaches, including Gestalt therapy, existential philosophy, nonviolent communication, narrative therapy, somatic and yogic practice, 12-step recovery, and group therapy.
Tired of waking up staring out into the abyss staring back at you? Being a human is hard, no matter how you go about it, and trying to make meaning out of the chaos can be overwhelming. I support my clients to align with their Authentic Self, while collaboratively honoring and transforming anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and other feelings or behaviors that seem out of balance with everyday life. I believe that coming from a place of authenticity opens the door to a wider range of possibilities for your life path, and makes interpersonal relationships along the journey better and more fulfilling.
![Photo of Sara Lichstein, MA, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae9aa15e-6003-4221-ba77-910be8d38c1e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Lichstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
I incorporate Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT) in addition to a Somatic therapy approach incorporating modalities such as IFS and Somatic Experiencing.
Are you struggling with dating? Experiencing challenges with romantic and/or non romantic relationships? Are you dealing with divorce or loss of a loved one? Do you find it challenging to notice your own needs and express yourself? Are you going through a difficult transition time in your life such as just graduating or starting college? I can help you work through these challenges and meet your goals!
I incorporate Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Dialectical Behavioral therapy (DBT) in addition to a Somatic therapy approach incorporating modalities such as IFS and Somatic Experiencing.
Are you struggling with dating? Experiencing challenges with romantic and/or non romantic relationships? Are you dealing with divorce or loss of a loved one? Do you find it challenging to notice your own needs and express yourself? Are you going through a difficult transition time in your life such as just graduating or starting college? I can help you work through these challenges and meet your goals!
![Photo of Jori Adler - Flow House Therapy Group, LMFT, EMDR, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51cacd30-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Flow House Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Yay! You’re thinking about trying therapy, but going through these profiles is A LOT. Life is overwhelming enough, let us help make this part easy. Schedule a free consult call, have a nice little chat, and get matched immediately with someone personally chosen for you. There are 8 of us - with different styles, personalities, specialities, and schedules - so odds are high of finding a good match.
Yay! You’re thinking about trying therapy, but going through these profiles is A LOT. Life is overwhelming enough, let us help make this part easy. Schedule a free consult call, have a nice little chat, and get matched immediately with someone personally chosen for you. There are 8 of us - with different styles, personalities, specialities, and schedules - so odds are high of finding a good match.
![Photo of Michele Robin Hahn - Michele Hahn Relationship Specialist, JD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d539e39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michele Hahn Relationship Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
Are you a couple who love each other but you've hit a hard place in your relationship? One of you may be feeling like you’re not heard or understood. You’re getting the feeling like you don’t matter to your partner or that you’re no longer a priority. You’re frustrated and sad about the relationship. You may be on the receiving end of blame or criticism way more than you think is fair. You feel controlled or micromanaged and you end up thinking, “what’s the point?” You want to please your partner, but nothing seems to be right anymore. Your communication has devolved and what was once easy, is now difficult.
Are you a couple who love each other but you've hit a hard place in your relationship? One of you may be feeling like you’re not heard or understood. You’re getting the feeling like you don’t matter to your partner or that you’re no longer a priority. You’re frustrated and sad about the relationship. You may be on the receiving end of blame or criticism way more than you think is fair. You feel controlled or micromanaged and you end up thinking, “what’s the point?” You want to please your partner, but nothing seems to be right anymore. Your communication has devolved and what was once easy, is now difficult.
![Photo of Lindsay Kerr, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7d2de68-93a2-4e27-b666-ab3ebf60c9d5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Kerr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Hi, I’m Lindsay. Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? With compassion and efficiency, we will work towards replacing frustrating patterns that are keeping you from the quality of life you want. I will support you in learning new skills and insights that build self-worth, create healthier relationships, and promote relief from your current challenges. My goal is to help you identify what's keeping you stuck and build the skills and resiliency to move through it.
Hi, I’m Lindsay. Feeling stuck? Overwhelmed? With compassion and efficiency, we will work towards replacing frustrating patterns that are keeping you from the quality of life you want. I will support you in learning new skills and insights that build self-worth, create healthier relationships, and promote relief from your current challenges. My goal is to help you identify what's keeping you stuck and build the skills and resiliency to move through it.
![Photo of Noah Rothschild, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/403efa0a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Noah Rothschild
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I am here to help you get unstuck and reclaim your natural state of joy, well-being, purpose, and vitality. "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure (Marianne Williamson)." In our fast-paced world, it's easy to lose touch with ourselves and our sense of well-being. This has led to a rise in depression/anxiety, substance abuse, marital/relationship issues, and other difficulties. I am skilled at alleviating these symptoms and have been successful in working with individuals, couples, children/adolescents, and families of all ages backgrounds.
I am here to help you get unstuck and reclaim your natural state of joy, well-being, purpose, and vitality. "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate, our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure (Marianne Williamson)." In our fast-paced world, it's easy to lose touch with ourselves and our sense of well-being. This has led to a rise in depression/anxiety, substance abuse, marital/relationship issues, and other difficulties. I am skilled at alleviating these symptoms and have been successful in working with individuals, couples, children/adolescents, and families of all ages backgrounds.
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Los Angeles Therapy Network (Santa Monica)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you struggling with sexual trauma, a history of childhood abuse, extreme forms of abuse, cult abuse, LGBTQI related issues or needing a therapist whose focus in on empowering you in your life? If so, I am the therapist for you! Feminist Therapist, Board Certified Expert in Treatment of Trauma/PTSD. If life is throwing you a curve ball, let me see if either I or one of the therapists who work with me can help! Special focus in tx sexual trauma & victims of violent crimes. Help with gay/lesbian & transgendered issues. Call me, I can help!
Are you struggling with sexual trauma, a history of childhood abuse, extreme forms of abuse, cult abuse, LGBTQI related issues or needing a therapist whose focus in on empowering you in your life? If so, I am the therapist for you! Feminist Therapist, Board Certified Expert in Treatment of Trauma/PTSD. If life is throwing you a curve ball, let me see if either I or one of the therapists who work with me can help! Special focus in tx sexual trauma & victims of violent crimes. Help with gay/lesbian & transgendered issues. Call me, I can help!
![Photo of Iris Nathaniel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2dc825-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm a holistic psychotherapist , with training in mind body modalities. I practice a unique blend of psychodynamic therapy combined with somatic modalities such as sensorymotor psychotherapy Sessions are individually crafted to fit each individual's needs at the moment of seeking help while relaying not only on cognitive restructuring and and uncovering unconscious emotions but also draws from the natural intelligence of the body and the most recent neuroscience, in order to heal past traumas , undo maladaptive patterns and create an empowered and fulfilling life. I am engaged and active during sessions and a partner on your road towards health and vitality.
I'm a holistic psychotherapist , with training in mind body modalities. I practice a unique blend of psychodynamic therapy combined with somatic modalities such as sensorymotor psychotherapy Sessions are individually crafted to fit each individual's needs at the moment of seeking help while relaying not only on cognitive restructuring and and uncovering unconscious emotions but also draws from the natural intelligence of the body and the most recent neuroscience, in order to heal past traumas , undo maladaptive patterns and create an empowered and fulfilling life. I am engaged and active during sessions and a partner on your road towards health and vitality.
![Photo of Tely Toumani, MS, LMFT, LPCC, CIHC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ba126c8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tely Toumani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC, CIHC
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I have a passion for this work and honor and appreciate my clients. Starting from wherever you are “stuck,” we’ll work on developing your ability to deal with problems in such a way that they become opportunities for personal growth. Our greatest difficulties can be life’s greatest gifts in disguise if we can learn how to translate their messages. It may be hard to imagine that your eating disorder or anxiety attacks (for example) can take you somewhere positive, but every problem we encounter has the potential to move us to a place of greater self-understanding,
I have a passion for this work and honor and appreciate my clients. Starting from wherever you are “stuck,” we’ll work on developing your ability to deal with problems in such a way that they become opportunities for personal growth. Our greatest difficulties can be life’s greatest gifts in disguise if we can learn how to translate their messages. It may be hard to imagine that your eating disorder or anxiety attacks (for example) can take you somewhere positive, but every problem we encounter has the potential to move us to a place of greater self-understanding,
![Photo of Jori Adler, MA, MFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ac6cc8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jori Adler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
A Warm Welcome & Hello! Finding the right therapist involves that certain combo of chemistry & expertise. If you’re looking to expand your consciousness, you’re in the right place. What I do is more than talk therapy. It’s more holistic & innovative and blends elements from all the things that helped me personally - EMDR, Somatic Therapy, Eastern Philosophy, Spirituality.
A Warm Welcome & Hello! Finding the right therapist involves that certain combo of chemistry & expertise. If you’re looking to expand your consciousness, you’re in the right place. What I do is more than talk therapy. It’s more holistic & innovative and blends elements from all the things that helped me personally - EMDR, Somatic Therapy, Eastern Philosophy, Spirituality.
![Photo of Dr. Olga Zabora Best Selling Author In Five Countries, PsyD, CHT, EMDR, NLP, TT, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d50f903-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Olga Zabora Best Selling Author In Five Countries
Psychologist, PsyD, CHT, EMDR, NLP, TT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
I combine an integrative model with a holistic view of the person to aid in healing and transformation. Integrative Psychotherapy uses insight-oriented modalities in conjunction with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Hypnosis, Mindfulness, Biofeedback, Guided Imagery, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), EMDR for trauma processing, and dream analysis using Jungian approach. All of these techniques facilitate unique experiences and allow me to tailor therapy sessions for each individual patient. You will be reminded in my therapy room that : "You are as unique as your fingerprint." (M. Erickson)
I combine an integrative model with a holistic view of the person to aid in healing and transformation. Integrative Psychotherapy uses insight-oriented modalities in conjunction with Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Hypnosis, Mindfulness, Biofeedback, Guided Imagery, Neuro Linguistic Programming, Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), EMDR for trauma processing, and dream analysis using Jungian approach. All of these techniques facilitate unique experiences and allow me to tailor therapy sessions for each individual patient. You will be reminded in my therapy room that : "You are as unique as your fingerprint." (M. Erickson)
![Photo of Gabrielle Zhuang, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f25a69b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabrielle Zhuang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
If you feel you are living a truncated life, overburdened by anxiety, depression or lacking a feeling of rich aliveness, connection and joy I hope we can work together. I offer an atmosphere of empathy and acceptance as we explore the individual and relational issues that are coming up for you. We will transform insight into actionable change.
If you feel you are living a truncated life, overburdened by anxiety, depression or lacking a feeling of rich aliveness, connection and joy I hope we can work together. I offer an atmosphere of empathy and acceptance as we explore the individual and relational issues that are coming up for you. We will transform insight into actionable change.
![Photo of Dr. Margie Mirell, PhD, LMFT, AASECT, Imago, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d2b8291-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Margie Mirell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, AASECT, Imago
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you overwhelmed? Does it feel like something is holding you back from achieving your goals? Are you struggling with persistent negative thoughts or self-doubt? Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools for you to face and overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with trauma and PTSD, intimacy issues, overcoming addiction, or grief, it is important that you know you don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Are you overwhelmed? Does it feel like something is holding you back from achieving your goals? Are you struggling with persistent negative thoughts or self-doubt? Together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools for you to face and overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with trauma and PTSD, intimacy issues, overcoming addiction, or grief, it is important that you know you don't have to be alone in this journey. I have the experience to help you achieve your goals, overcome these struggles, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Gerardo Horischnik, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7037b71-dfba-4a03-8e2e-186d34731069/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gerardo Horischnik
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe people want to express who they are and pursue satisfying work and relationships, but have emotional and cognitive patterns that keep them stuck. These patterns often consolidate into a persona that leaves people feeling not quite themselves, with needs unrealized, feelings ignored, and potential unused. Symptoms of anxiety and depression, addictions, or low self-esteem, are often the only messengers trying to let us know that we are needing change. In a supportive and safe environment, therapy can help to bring these patterns into awareness and liberate needs to connect, create, and expand with fuller emotional support.
I believe people want to express who they are and pursue satisfying work and relationships, but have emotional and cognitive patterns that keep them stuck. These patterns often consolidate into a persona that leaves people feeling not quite themselves, with needs unrealized, feelings ignored, and potential unused. Symptoms of anxiety and depression, addictions, or low self-esteem, are often the only messengers trying to let us know that we are needing change. In a supportive and safe environment, therapy can help to bring these patterns into awareness and liberate needs to connect, create, and expand with fuller emotional support.
![Photo of Johanna Jenkins, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e88dc58-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Johanna Jenkins Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
The psychotherapy work I offer creates a sacred relationship, built on the deep recognition of our essential humanness. The issues that bring you to therapy will guide our work, and with clarity, compassion, and tools gathered from 30 years in practice, I will become your companion on the healing journey. Each of us has within us the wisdom to resolve our issues. My purpose is to assist you in finding that wisdom, bringing your own loving to any places of pain within you, and in seeing clearly and stepping into your life's opportunities.
The psychotherapy work I offer creates a sacred relationship, built on the deep recognition of our essential humanness. The issues that bring you to therapy will guide our work, and with clarity, compassion, and tools gathered from 30 years in practice, I will become your companion on the healing journey. Each of us has within us the wisdom to resolve our issues. My purpose is to assist you in finding that wisdom, bringing your own loving to any places of pain within you, and in seeing clearly and stepping into your life's opportunities.
See more therapy options for 90401
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.