Gestalt Therapists in Scottsdale, AZ

Photo of Jack Register, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jack Register
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Who we have had to be in the past, has no bearing on who we become in the future. We all deserve the space to grow and become. Jack is a guide through the transformation process of change. Through holistic therapies including Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gestalt, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Post-Induction Therapy (PIT), the goal of treatment is to bring our nervous system into a place of balance, give it space to grow, and create a life that is intentional and forward-looking.
Who we have had to be in the past, has no bearing on who we become in the future. We all deserve the space to grow and become. Jack is a guide through the transformation process of change. Through holistic therapies including Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gestalt, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, and Post-Induction Therapy (PIT), the goal of treatment is to bring our nervous system into a place of balance, give it space to grow, and create a life that is intentional and forward-looking.
(602) 960-8539 View (602) 960-8539
Photo of Kari Johnson, PsyD, MT-BC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kari Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I believe in collaborating and use a person-centered approach, while incorporating techniques from various modalities that resonate with you such as IFS, ETT, DBT, CBT, Gestalt, and experiential.
Dr. Kari Johnson (she/her) is a pre-licensed doctor of psychology (Psy.D) and board certified music therapist (MT-BC). I have worked within the juvenile correction system, forensic state hospital, private practice, and community mental health. My experience has included individual and group therapy with adolescents and adults who suffer from serious mental illness, trauma, sex addiction and offending behaviors, personality disorders, burnout, self-compassion, first responders, and criminal thinking.
I believe in collaborating and use a person-centered approach, while incorporating techniques from various modalities that resonate with you such as IFS, ETT, DBT, CBT, Gestalt, and experiential.
Dr. Kari Johnson (she/her) is a pre-licensed doctor of psychology (Psy.D) and board certified music therapist (MT-BC). I have worked within the juvenile correction system, forensic state hospital, private practice, and community mental health. My experience has included individual and group therapy with adolescents and adults who suffer from serious mental illness, trauma, sex addiction and offending behaviors, personality disorders, burnout, self-compassion, first responders, and criminal thinking.
(480) 947-5739 View (480) 947-5739
Photo of Francesca Nieves, LAC, Counselor
Francesca Nieves
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I specialize in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Existential Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Gottman Therapy, as well as Alternative for Families Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hi, there! I work with clients between the ages of 10 and 99 which means I help clients cope with issues at different stages. Clients of mine include children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families. My therapeutic work is solely based on a collaborative approach to ensure my clients feel they have autonomy in how the therapeutic journey navigates.
I specialize in Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Existential Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Gottman Therapy, as well as Alternative for Families Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hi, there! I work with clients between the ages of 10 and 99 which means I help clients cope with issues at different stages. Clients of mine include children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families. My therapeutic work is solely based on a collaborative approach to ensure my clients feel they have autonomy in how the therapeutic journey navigates.
(520) 842-0101 View (520) 842-0101
Vivian E Watters
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85258  (Online Only)
In practice, I use several modalities including CBT, DBT, Gestalt Therapy, Brief, Solution Focused Therapies, mindfulness and coaching.
Hello, my name is Vivian Watters, LMSW and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with you on your mental health journey. My goal is to bring healing and comfort to many aspects of your life. I understand that there is no ‘one size fits all” when it comes to unravelling life’s stressful challenges, so allow me to be on this journey with you.
In practice, I use several modalities including CBT, DBT, Gestalt Therapy, Brief, Solution Focused Therapies, mindfulness and coaching.
Hello, my name is Vivian Watters, LMSW and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with you on your mental health journey. My goal is to bring healing and comfort to many aspects of your life. I understand that there is no ‘one size fits all” when it comes to unravelling life’s stressful challenges, so allow me to be on this journey with you.
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Photo of Dr. Carolyn J Brown, PsyD, CHT, Psychologist
Dr. Carolyn J Brown
Psychologist, PsyD, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
The multi-method approach includes talk therapy, gestalt therapy & hypnosis.
Danielle LaPorte asked the question best, “Can you remember who you were before the world told you who you should be?” Can you remember when you loved and accepted yourself unapologetically, and embraced all the things about you that make you unique? As we age, we gain knowledge from life experiences and through those experiences we can soar to greatness or we can break and lose sight of who we really are and become someone we were never meant to be. When we become someone less than who we were meant to be we can begin to experience anxiety, depression, substance abuse, loss of relationships and functional distress.
The multi-method approach includes talk therapy, gestalt therapy & hypnosis.
Danielle LaPorte asked the question best, “Can you remember who you were before the world told you who you should be?” Can you remember when you loved and accepted yourself unapologetically, and embraced all the things about you that make you unique? As we age, we gain knowledge from life experiences and through those experiences we can soar to greatness or we can break and lose sight of who we really are and become someone we were never meant to be. When we become someone less than who we were meant to be we can begin to experience anxiety, depression, substance abuse, loss of relationships and functional distress.
(480) 780-1934 View (480) 780-1934
Photo of Katharina Von Rhau, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katharina Von Rhau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
I LIKE TO FOCUS IN / ON WHAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP LIFE, WORK LIFE AND INNER FEELINGS AND THOUGHTS. TO FOCUS IN / ON EXPERIENCE IS TO BECOME AWARE OF YOUR EXPERIENCE IN DETAIL, IN GREAT DETAIL SO YOU CAN FIND A GROUND. TO BE IN YOUR GROUND IS TO BE CONTENT. I WORK WITH COUPLES, INDIVIDUALS, GAYS AND LESBIANS. SPANISH SPEAKING PROVIDED. I HAVE HAD 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE AS A THERAPIST AND TRAINED THERAPISTS TO DO GESTALT THERAPY FOR 30 YEARS. PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT HTTP://PHOENIXWOMENSCOUNSELING.COM
I LIKE TO FOCUS IN / ON WHAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP LIFE, WORK LIFE AND INNER FEELINGS AND THOUGHTS. TO FOCUS IN / ON EXPERIENCE IS TO BECOME AWARE OF YOUR EXPERIENCE IN DETAIL, IN GREAT DETAIL SO YOU CAN FIND A GROUND. TO BE IN YOUR GROUND IS TO BE CONTENT. I WORK WITH COUPLES, INDIVIDUALS, GAYS AND LESBIANS. SPANISH SPEAKING PROVIDED. I HAVE HAD 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE AS A THERAPIST AND TRAINED THERAPISTS TO DO GESTALT THERAPY FOR 30 YEARS. PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AT HTTP://PHOENIXWOMENSCOUNSELING.COM
(602) 508-9018 View (602) 508-9018
Photo of Adam Vellturo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam Vellturo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85250  (Online Only)
I am available for Teletherapy sessions throughout the state of Arizona. I use a variety of techniques & experiential methods to help my clients change their self-defeating patterns and access & process underlying emotional blocks. I tailor my work to meet individual needs drawing primarily from the theories of Mindfullness-Based Cognitive Therapy as well as Gestalt, Adlerian & Jungian Therapy, My work is guided by the premise that each individual holds within them the capacity to understand and heal themselves. My role is to facilitate a connection to this capacity which allows my clients to feel more fulfilled & connected in life.
I am available for Teletherapy sessions throughout the state of Arizona. I use a variety of techniques & experiential methods to help my clients change their self-defeating patterns and access & process underlying emotional blocks. I tailor my work to meet individual needs drawing primarily from the theories of Mindfullness-Based Cognitive Therapy as well as Gestalt, Adlerian & Jungian Therapy, My work is guided by the premise that each individual holds within them the capacity to understand and heal themselves. My role is to facilitate a connection to this capacity which allows my clients to feel more fulfilled & connected in life.
(520) 980-9349 View (520) 980-9349
Photo of Bobby Becker, MS, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bobby Becker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I am accepting new clients. My therapeutic technique is a person-centered approach that encompasses a compassionate and mindful lens. I use an array of modalities in my practice such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindful Meditation, Gestalt, and more. My strength lies in treating those who suffer from disordered eating, trauma, depression, spiritual transitions, stress, and relationship issues. I aim to help all my clients recognize their strengths and learn that they are their best advocates for themselves.
I am accepting new clients. My therapeutic technique is a person-centered approach that encompasses a compassionate and mindful lens. I use an array of modalities in my practice such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindful Meditation, Gestalt, and more. My strength lies in treating those who suffer from disordered eating, trauma, depression, spiritual transitions, stress, and relationship issues. I aim to help all my clients recognize their strengths and learn that they are their best advocates for themselves.
(480) 923-4787 View (480) 923-4787
Photo of Stacey Bruen, MC, NCC, LPC, BCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Bruen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, NCC, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Therapy has the ability to allow one to process, grow, and heal. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is also Nationally and Board Certified. I have been in private practice for over 20 years where I focus on individual, child/teen, family, and couples counseling. An eclectic approach to therapy is utilized and geared towards self-improvement/personal growth through challenging and often tragic times. Therapeutic techniques and interventions are diverse in nature (CBT, DBT, EMDR, client centered, etc.) that specifically cater towards each individual, couple, or family.
Therapy has the ability to allow one to process, grow, and heal. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is also Nationally and Board Certified. I have been in private practice for over 20 years where I focus on individual, child/teen, family, and couples counseling. An eclectic approach to therapy is utilized and geared towards self-improvement/personal growth through challenging and often tragic times. Therapeutic techniques and interventions are diverse in nature (CBT, DBT, EMDR, client centered, etc.) that specifically cater towards each individual, couple, or family.
(480) 660-0920 View (480) 660-0920
Photo of D.j. Diebold, CAC, LISAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
D.j. Diebold
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CAC, LISAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
I consider myself to be half street and half academia. And I always ask the question, Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Addiction is like a deep, dark hole that seemingly has no way out. This is my specialty and I am very skilled at it. I consider myself half "Street" and half academia. Please go to www.dieboldbehavioralcounseling.com for a more detailed biography. The healing begins with a phone call. It can be scary after we've been hurt and lost, but the way back home is always worth the effort. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients.
I consider myself to be half street and half academia. And I always ask the question, Are you sick and tired of being sick and tired? Addiction is like a deep, dark hole that seemingly has no way out. This is my specialty and I am very skilled at it. I consider myself half "Street" and half academia. Please go to www.dieboldbehavioralcounseling.com for a more detailed biography. The healing begins with a phone call. It can be scary after we've been hurt and lost, but the way back home is always worth the effort. I'm always amazed at the courage of my clients.
(480) 646-4697 View (480) 646-4697
Photo of Sofia Softas-Nall, MS,  MA, NCC, LPC-S, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sofia Softas-Nall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, NCC, LPC-S, LPC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85255  (Online Only)
Sofia has 12 years of experience in the field of psychology and 7 years of experience in counseling. Sofia Softas-Nall is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arizona and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). She is a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) on the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (AZBBHE) Registry. Sofia specializes in working with life transitions, LGBTQIA+ concerns, anxiety, depression, chronic health conditions, multicultural counseling, athletes/sports psychology, pain, trauma, and PTSD. She has experience counseling adults, teens, groups, couples, and families.
Sofia has 12 years of experience in the field of psychology and 7 years of experience in counseling. Sofia Softas-Nall is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Arizona and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). She is a Board Certified Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) on the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (AZBBHE) Registry. Sofia specializes in working with life transitions, LGBTQIA+ concerns, anxiety, depression, chronic health conditions, multicultural counseling, athletes/sports psychology, pain, trauma, and PTSD. She has experience counseling adults, teens, groups, couples, and families.
(480) 864-4326 View (480) 864-4326
Photo of Julie T. Anné Zeig, PhD, Psychologist
Julie T. Anné Zeig
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Life should NEVER be compromised and your Self should never be left unloved. Not by others, and not by your Self. I am an internationally recognized master therapist, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine faculty and on-air psychologist (find me at Good Morning Arizona!) who brings my HOPE-filled work to those who are hurting - and those who help those who are hurt - worldwide. With a primary focus on completely healing the aftereffects of complex trauma, especially as it manifests in an unhealthy relationship with food, body and Self, as well as impacting relationships with others, I believe that everyone has the capacity to FULLY Heal.
Life should NEVER be compromised and your Self should never be left unloved. Not by others, and not by your Self. I am an internationally recognized master therapist, Mayo Clinic School of Medicine faculty and on-air psychologist (find me at Good Morning Arizona!) who brings my HOPE-filled work to those who are hurting - and those who help those who are hurt - worldwide. With a primary focus on completely healing the aftereffects of complex trauma, especially as it manifests in an unhealthy relationship with food, body and Self, as well as impacting relationships with others, I believe that everyone has the capacity to FULLY Heal.
(480) 525-6734 View (480) 525-6734
Photo of Tony Ludlum, MS, LPC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tony Ludlum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
Is trauma getting in your way from becoming who you want to be or doing what you want to do? Imagine moving toward unburdening yourself of the weight given to you through that trauma. If you have ever found yourself struggling with a lack of motivation, feeling stuck, issues within your relationships, internal messages of inadequacy, shame, addiction, or other issues leading to life feeling overwhelming, I can help. The world is always changing and life can be difficult to navigate while coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, or unrealistic expectations (set by self or others).
Is trauma getting in your way from becoming who you want to be or doing what you want to do? Imagine moving toward unburdening yourself of the weight given to you through that trauma. If you have ever found yourself struggling with a lack of motivation, feeling stuck, issues within your relationships, internal messages of inadequacy, shame, addiction, or other issues leading to life feeling overwhelming, I can help. The world is always changing and life can be difficult to navigate while coping with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, or unrealistic expectations (set by self or others).
(480) 780-3002 View (480) 780-3002
Photo of Dr. Scott Reuter, DBH, LPC, ACS, NCC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Scott Reuter
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC, ACS, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Waitlist for new clients
We've got this. Scientific Psychology has come a long way and it's peaceful to be here in this day and age, now. My practice at The Reuter Center for Neuropsychology and Integrative Counseling includes adult individuals, couples, & family who may wish to participate. I personally practice what I professionally offer to couples & individuals, integrating mind, body, & spirit, using evidence-based psychotherapies and other sciences from eastern and western cultures. Feel free to visit our website, contact me, & see how we may fit.
We've got this. Scientific Psychology has come a long way and it's peaceful to be here in this day and age, now. My practice at The Reuter Center for Neuropsychology and Integrative Counseling includes adult individuals, couples, & family who may wish to participate. I personally practice what I professionally offer to couples & individuals, integrating mind, body, & spirit, using evidence-based psychotherapies and other sciences from eastern and western cultures. Feel free to visit our website, contact me, & see how we may fit.
(480) 378-6280 View (480) 378-6280
Photo of Loretta Holdsworth, Licensed Professional Counselor
Loretta Holdsworth
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Scottsdale, AZ 85254  (Online Only)
Many of us unknowingly repeat patterns that keep us stuck or can be harmful and interfere with living our best and most meaningful life. Addiction, anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, self-esteem and relationship issues cause our lives to become more difficult than planned or imagined. Learning how to identify and effectively address what gets in our way can seem overwhelming if we aren't equipped with the appropriate tools to deal with them. Increasing self-awareness can bring us to a state of congruence so what we feel on the inside more clearly matches what we express on the outside.
Many of us unknowingly repeat patterns that keep us stuck or can be harmful and interfere with living our best and most meaningful life. Addiction, anxiety, trauma, grief, depression, self-esteem and relationship issues cause our lives to become more difficult than planned or imagined. Learning how to identify and effectively address what gets in our way can seem overwhelming if we aren't equipped with the appropriate tools to deal with them. Increasing self-awareness can bring us to a state of congruence so what we feel on the inside more clearly matches what we express on the outside.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Tommy Montanarella, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tommy Montanarella
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
I am seasoned Licensed Counselor with experience in individual and group therapy, working with clients within the Birth-5, Child & Family, Adolescent, Adult, & Senior populations. I understand and value that each client I meet with has their own story, culture, traditions and background, so our work together will be tailored to fit your or your family's needs. I have spent many years working hard to make a difference within our community's mental health, so I thank you for taking the time to explore what I have to offer and I hope to hear from you so that we may make your personalized experience a special and successful one.
I am seasoned Licensed Counselor with experience in individual and group therapy, working with clients within the Birth-5, Child & Family, Adolescent, Adult, & Senior populations. I understand and value that each client I meet with has their own story, culture, traditions and background, so our work together will be tailored to fit your or your family's needs. I have spent many years working hard to make a difference within our community's mental health, so I thank you for taking the time to explore what I have to offer and I hope to hear from you so that we may make your personalized experience a special and successful one.
(480) 378-3045 View (480) 378-3045
Photo of Melissa Thornburg, MA, LPC, ASAT, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Thornburg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ASAT, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
As a Therapist in long term recovery from both substance and process addictions, I've received support from some very special humans who've lit the way for me to peer into the areas of my path that were either blind spots or I just couldn't see from an objective perspective (yet). After a career in corporate development, I'm grateful to have transitioned to providing the work that's helped me come to terms with life and my place in it; work that feeds my soul and shines the light on those dark places so many of us are challenged to venture into alone. Together, we can explore and make meaning of what's happened to you.
As a Therapist in long term recovery from both substance and process addictions, I've received support from some very special humans who've lit the way for me to peer into the areas of my path that were either blind spots or I just couldn't see from an objective perspective (yet). After a career in corporate development, I'm grateful to have transitioned to providing the work that's helped me come to terms with life and my place in it; work that feeds my soul and shines the light on those dark places so many of us are challenged to venture into alone. Together, we can explore and make meaning of what's happened to you.
(480) 470-7167 View (480) 470-7167
Photo of Shiru Zhou, LAC, Counselor
Shiru Zhou
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85254
The neurodivergent experience is often isolating and bewildering, leaving you misunderstood and alienated even by well-intentioned professionals. The search for genuine understanding and appreciation of your unique perspectives and values can be overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with anger, stress, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, parenting issues, substance misuse, depression, or trauma, I am equipped to provide the support and guidance you need with my extensive experience working with various populations.
The neurodivergent experience is often isolating and bewildering, leaving you misunderstood and alienated even by well-intentioned professionals. The search for genuine understanding and appreciation of your unique perspectives and values can be overwhelming. Whether you're dealing with anger, stress, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, parenting issues, substance misuse, depression, or trauma, I am equipped to provide the support and guidance you need with my extensive experience working with various populations.
(602) 894-9081 View (602) 894-9081
Photo of Amie Celender, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amie Celender
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
Are you ready to believe that it can get better? Maybe you are new to therapy and ready to make life changes, or maybe therapy has been helpful in the past and it’s time for a tune up. With the right therapeutic fit a new path may open for you and lead you to healing past trauma and reviving your life. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings. I specialize in treating maternal mental health / parental stress management, disordered eating, body image, relationship issues and general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and trauma.
Are you ready to believe that it can get better? Maybe you are new to therapy and ready to make life changes, or maybe therapy has been helpful in the past and it’s time for a tune up. With the right therapeutic fit a new path may open for you and lead you to healing past trauma and reviving your life. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in a variety of clinical settings. I specialize in treating maternal mental health / parental stress management, disordered eating, body image, relationship issues and general mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem and trauma.
(602) 536-9765 View (602) 536-9765
Photo of Gregory Custer, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gregory Custer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
That saying, "What doesn't kill me makes me stronger" -- I think it should be "What doesn't kill me makes me suffer." So many people feel unheard, disconnected, tired, worthless, fearful, sad, anxious and forgettable. They need the skills to nurture their resilience, to discern their incredible value. There's a loneliness in struggling. But I'm here to help you heal yourself with a new, creative perspective and find resources you didn't know you possessed.
That saying, "What doesn't kill me makes me stronger" -- I think it should be "What doesn't kill me makes me suffer." So many people feel unheard, disconnected, tired, worthless, fearful, sad, anxious and forgettable. They need the skills to nurture their resilience, to discern their incredible value. There's a loneliness in struggling. But I'm here to help you heal yourself with a new, creative perspective and find resources you didn't know you possessed.
(480) 848-4037 View (480) 848-4037
1
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.