Gestalt Therapists in Hood River, OR
![Photo of Karen Myers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b6c4587-0091-4758-86fc-25a996f00892/1/320x400.jpeg)
Karen Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hood River, OR 97031 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Did you know that trauma effects 70% of the population? It's the silence and the shame that keeps us stuck or oscillating in all areas of life, including financially. Your bank account suffers as much as your mind or your body. Because by age 35 your decisions are a memorized set of patterns, beliefs and behaviors. So you keep doing the same thing over and over and over again. Year after year. Maybe a different context but the outcome is the same. It's exhausting. I bring my 35 years of training from EMDR, gestalt, NLP, Self psychology and a little known discovery called the window of consolidation.
Did you know that trauma effects 70% of the population? It's the silence and the shame that keeps us stuck or oscillating in all areas of life, including financially. Your bank account suffers as much as your mind or your body. Because by age 35 your decisions are a memorized set of patterns, beliefs and behaviors. So you keep doing the same thing over and over and over again. Year after year. Maybe a different context but the outcome is the same. It's exhausting. I bring my 35 years of training from EMDR, gestalt, NLP, Self psychology and a little known discovery called the window of consolidation.
![Photo of Paul Grim, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ce671ff-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Paul Grim
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hood River, OR 97031
Not accepting new clients
Please visit my website www.whitesalmoncounseling.com in order to request a session and to learn more about me. My approach is called "integrative" counseling which is a blend of several different counseling methods and theories. I can do brief solution-oriented counseling or longer term insight-oriented counseling which emphasizes personal growth and transformation. Each client is unique, therefore the therapy should be customized and flexible. With most clients, I focus on their entire lifestyle including physical activity, diet, sleep, work, purpose, and relationships. I'm a big fan of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
Please visit my website www.whitesalmoncounseling.com in order to request a session and to learn more about me. My approach is called "integrative" counseling which is a blend of several different counseling methods and theories. I can do brief solution-oriented counseling or longer term insight-oriented counseling which emphasizes personal growth and transformation. Each client is unique, therefore the therapy should be customized and flexible. With most clients, I focus on their entire lifestyle including physical activity, diet, sleep, work, purpose, and relationships. I'm a big fan of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Sean Callahan, LPCA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db2d15f4-dec9-49ee-9ab2-e475843b8e45/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sean Callahan
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
I apply trauma-informed care practices to all aspects of my care and incorporate somatic/body-centered work, Gestalt Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy to best meet your needs.
I approach therapy from a place of curiosity, compassion, honest communication, and non-judgement. All parts of you will be welcomed and valued in our work together. Whether you are processing trauma and painful life experiences, grieving a loss or change in your life, struggling to advocate for your needs in relationships, feeling overwhelmed or stuck in emotions such as shame, anxiety, depression, loneliness, or lack of motivation, I am here to guide you through the process of deepening your relationship to yourself so that you can make meaningful, lasting change that aligns with your values. Learn more at tuliptreecounseling.care
I apply trauma-informed care practices to all aspects of my care and incorporate somatic/body-centered work, Gestalt Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy to best meet your needs.
I approach therapy from a place of curiosity, compassion, honest communication, and non-judgement. All parts of you will be welcomed and valued in our work together. Whether you are processing trauma and painful life experiences, grieving a loss or change in your life, struggling to advocate for your needs in relationships, feeling overwhelmed or stuck in emotions such as shame, anxiety, depression, loneliness, or lack of motivation, I am here to guide you through the process of deepening your relationship to yourself so that you can make meaningful, lasting change that aligns with your values. Learn more at tuliptreecounseling.care
![Photo of Ben Mosebach, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dfc5571-b3f5-47fb-b236-32640c41bf88/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there, I'm Ben Mosebach and I'm not your typical therapist. I'm not here to offer you clichés or empty promises. What I offer is authenticity and the potential to profoundly impact your life. My approach to therapy is straightforward and down-to-earth. Theoretically I am rooted in the humanistic perspectives encompassing aspects of existentialism, gestalt and person centered therapy. But I'm not interested in wasting your time with superficial chatter or jargon-filled language. I'm here to roll up my sleeves and get to work with you, tackling whatever challenges you're facing head-on.
Hey there, I'm Ben Mosebach and I'm not your typical therapist. I'm not here to offer you clichés or empty promises. What I offer is authenticity and the potential to profoundly impact your life. My approach to therapy is straightforward and down-to-earth. Theoretically I am rooted in the humanistic perspectives encompassing aspects of existentialism, gestalt and person centered therapy. But I'm not interested in wasting your time with superficial chatter or jargon-filled language. I'm here to roll up my sleeves and get to work with you, tackling whatever challenges you're facing head-on.
![Photo of Annie Vail, MA, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c4279a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Annie Vail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in multiple trauma and attachment-based modalities, IFS & Gestalt, compassionate communication (NVC), PACT couples therapy, and authentic relating.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
I am also trained in multiple trauma and attachment-based modalities, IFS & Gestalt, compassionate communication (NVC), PACT couples therapy, and authentic relating.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
![Photo of Frankie Forrester, MS, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbc939e9-613c-4324-b0ab-8b70dc396bcf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Frankie Forrester
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Utilizing flavors of gestalt, somatic, and other modalities, I hold space for exploration of whatever arises in your therapeutic journey.
As a Black, non-binary, transracial adoptee, identity work is the name of my game. I often work with BIPOC and/or gender non-conforming individuals including children, pre-teens, and adults. I focus my clinical work in supporting those navigating challenges that arise from identity work: racial, gender, familial, societal, etc. The subject of adoption is particularly close to my heart and one that holds much nuance and intricacy. We may be a good fit if you are looking to explore any of the aforementioned or are the parent and/or guardian of the aforementioned. Please contact me using the "my website" link or visit crybaby.care.
Utilizing flavors of gestalt, somatic, and other modalities, I hold space for exploration of whatever arises in your therapeutic journey.
As a Black, non-binary, transracial adoptee, identity work is the name of my game. I often work with BIPOC and/or gender non-conforming individuals including children, pre-teens, and adults. I focus my clinical work in supporting those navigating challenges that arise from identity work: racial, gender, familial, societal, etc. The subject of adoption is particularly close to my heart and one that holds much nuance and intricacy. We may be a good fit if you are looking to explore any of the aforementioned or are the parent and/or guardian of the aforementioned. Please contact me using the "my website" link or visit crybaby.care.
![Photo of Tamara Ellis, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54bb3bb1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been working with adolescents, adults and couples for over 30 years. I do both traditional "talk therapy" as well as expressive arts therapy in my fully equipped studio (on site). I specialize in helping people with life transitions (separation, divorce ) and provide Co-parenting mediation services for families living in bi-nuclear households. I have extensive training in trauma resolution, the Enneagram, current brain science, Gestalt therapy and process work. I have had the honor of working with many individuals and families over the years and I have a strong commitment to improving my skills and techniques every year.
I have been working with adolescents, adults and couples for over 30 years. I do both traditional "talk therapy" as well as expressive arts therapy in my fully equipped studio (on site). I specialize in helping people with life transitions (separation, divorce ) and provide Co-parenting mediation services for families living in bi-nuclear households. I have extensive training in trauma resolution, the Enneagram, current brain science, Gestalt therapy and process work. I have had the honor of working with many individuals and families over the years and I have a strong commitment to improving my skills and techniques every year.
![Photo of Gabriel Boyer, MA, MEd](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb303042-9b34-43f9-b8d0-877fffa6fef4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriel Boyer
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
You want someone who is compassionate and responsive, who is open and respectful, and who isn’t afraid to go with you into difficult places. That's my goal: to be on your side, to be with you, and to be real—so you have the support needed to move through and to flourish. My practice is holistic & relational from my background in depth, gestalt & somatic therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, relationships, anxiety and non-monogamy. I also focus on—and especially enjoy—working with queer folk and other healers.
You want someone who is compassionate and responsive, who is open and respectful, and who isn’t afraid to go with you into difficult places. That's my goal: to be on your side, to be with you, and to be real—so you have the support needed to move through and to flourish. My practice is holistic & relational from my background in depth, gestalt & somatic therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, relationships, anxiety and non-monogamy. I also focus on—and especially enjoy—working with queer folk and other healers.
![Photo of Katya Stark - Stark Counseling , MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca1ca080-fac8-493c-95a1-286ea4a51401/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stark Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
In my work, I apply Gestalt, somatic, Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), and Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methods.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples whose challenges with interpersonal relationships are due to anxiety, depression, and/or past traumatic events. My clients with the best outcomes are willing to engage in deep dialogues, complete "homework" between sessions, and are comfortable with a "hands-on approach” in therapy. I am a good fit for people struggling with social anxiety, depression, religious trauma, life transitions, procrastination, or relationship issues. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA + community and can help people questioning gender identity and heteronormativity.
In my work, I apply Gestalt, somatic, Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), and Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methods.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples whose challenges with interpersonal relationships are due to anxiety, depression, and/or past traumatic events. My clients with the best outcomes are willing to engage in deep dialogues, complete "homework" between sessions, and are comfortable with a "hands-on approach” in therapy. I am a good fit for people struggling with social anxiety, depression, religious trauma, life transitions, procrastination, or relationship issues. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA + community and can help people questioning gender identity and heteronormativity.
![Photo of Laney Kibel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451f5d07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laney Kibel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205 (Online Only)
After 25+ years of providing counseling I find my philosophy has grown simpler and more to the point.
Successful counseling is built on a positive and trusting relationship, much as successful living is dependent on trusting, healthy relationships. I bring a broad array of treatment tools to my work including gestalt, object relations and psychodynamic theory. Most importantly I bring myself; my heart, my humor, my understanding, knowledge and years of experience. I work with adults and children, couples and groups(this includes families).
After 25+ years of providing counseling I find my philosophy has grown simpler and more to the point.
Successful counseling is built on a positive and trusting relationship, much as successful living is dependent on trusting, healthy relationships. I bring a broad array of treatment tools to my work including gestalt, object relations and psychodynamic theory. Most importantly I bring myself; my heart, my humor, my understanding, knowledge and years of experience. I work with adults and children, couples and groups(this includes families).
![Photo of Michelle Sarchiapone, PCA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40f96a35-7ffb-4f5f-a899-b08d163cb7ef/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Sarchiapone
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97218
Waitlist for new clients
My tools include Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Focus, Buddhist Psychology, Somatic Experience, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Hakomi, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt, and more.
I draw on over 25 years of experience with somatics, mindfulness/meditation, and the creative arts to bring a unique synergy of skills to my counseling approach. In our sessions, you can expect to go beyond conventional therapy, merging somatic practices with a deep exploration into your emotional world and, often, what lies beyond the self. In our time together, we will engage with your body's wisdom and reimagine personal narratives, turning these insights into practical actions for holistic healing and self-growth.
My tools include Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Focus, Buddhist Psychology, Somatic Experience, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Hakomi, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt, and more.
I draw on over 25 years of experience with somatics, mindfulness/meditation, and the creative arts to bring a unique synergy of skills to my counseling approach. In our sessions, you can expect to go beyond conventional therapy, merging somatic practices with a deep exploration into your emotional world and, often, what lies beyond the self. In our time together, we will engage with your body's wisdom and reimagine personal narratives, turning these insights into practical actions for holistic healing and self-growth.
![Photo of Cam Ericksen, MS , NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6a8fe7b-5b50-4df8-9591-c7b660ec4f78/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cam Ericksen
Professional Counselor Associate, MS , NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
I draw from theories of Gestalt therapy, Somatic practices, and Process Work.
My name is Cam and I am eager to work with people who are ready to dig into their experiences, raise awareness of their processes, and heal past and current wounds. I hold several privileged and marginalized identities that inform the way I support people. Existing in an oppressive system, that at times told me I did not belong, has given me the empathy to support people who have felt othered, unseen, underserved, and underrepresented. My hope is to offer a therapeutic relationship that builds your self supports and bridges environmental supports to communities you are a part of or building.
I draw from theories of Gestalt therapy, Somatic practices, and Process Work.
My name is Cam and I am eager to work with people who are ready to dig into their experiences, raise awareness of their processes, and heal past and current wounds. I hold several privileged and marginalized identities that inform the way I support people. Existing in an oppressive system, that at times told me I did not belong, has given me the empathy to support people who have felt othered, unseen, underserved, and underrepresented. My hope is to offer a therapeutic relationship that builds your self supports and bridges environmental supports to communities you are a part of or building.
![Photo of Sarah Theisen, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2f00529-3533-4ef2-904e-aad36d2a11bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a framework that pulls concepts from person centered therapy, gestalt and some humanistic/existential ideas and concepts .
I provide non-judgmental, supportive counseling to individual adolescents ages 15 and up, and adults who might be experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, difficulty with life transitions, stress, and trauma. We all experience both tranquility and turmoil throughout our lives at different times. As we grow and learn through these experiences reaching out for help is a powerful thing that can help you regain control of your life at a time when you might feel lost. With my compassion, active listening skills, and empathetic approach to counseling my goal is that I can help guide you to regain that control.
I use a framework that pulls concepts from person centered therapy, gestalt and some humanistic/existential ideas and concepts .
I provide non-judgmental, supportive counseling to individual adolescents ages 15 and up, and adults who might be experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, difficulty with life transitions, stress, and trauma. We all experience both tranquility and turmoil throughout our lives at different times. As we grow and learn through these experiences reaching out for help is a powerful thing that can help you regain control of your life at a time when you might feel lost. With my compassion, active listening skills, and empathetic approach to counseling my goal is that I can help guide you to regain that control.
![Photo of Jarrad Malamed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1bfb6ec-9e85-4ea0-b124-eecd454670ac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gestalt therapy emphasizes present-moment awareness, encouraging self-exploration within the current context.
In psychotherapy, I, Jarrad Malamed, an LGBTQIA-identified therapist, prioritize diversity and inclusivity. Through an integrative approach blending interpersonal, relational, gestalt, experiential, and cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), I aim to customize healing and growth experiences for my clients. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on relationships' impact on mental well-being, emphasizing communication, conflict resolution, and healthy boundaries. Relational therapy explores past and present relationship dynamics, aiding clients in understanding attachment styles and fostering authentic connections.
Gestalt therapy emphasizes present-moment awareness, encouraging self-exploration within the current context.
In psychotherapy, I, Jarrad Malamed, an LGBTQIA-identified therapist, prioritize diversity and inclusivity. Through an integrative approach blending interpersonal, relational, gestalt, experiential, and cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), I aim to customize healing and growth experiences for my clients. Interpersonal therapy (IPT) focuses on relationships' impact on mental well-being, emphasizing communication, conflict resolution, and healthy boundaries. Relational therapy explores past and present relationship dynamics, aiding clients in understanding attachment styles and fostering authentic connections.
![Photo of Karim Dabliz, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcd8d2ca-5eea-4e05-b0b4-f82d2c99b5a1/4/320x400.jpeg)
Karim Dabliz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225 (Online Only)
My clinical approach is grounded Gestalt and IFS theories that seek to build awareness in the present moment by exploring how you make meaning of the world.
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Portland, Oregon. I am originally from Lebanon and moved to the US 10 years ago. I love to help individuals gain more awareness into the unhelpful patterns in their life through higher self esteem, self confidence, and boundaries. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I have significant experience in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds.
My clinical approach is grounded Gestalt and IFS theories that seek to build awareness in the present moment by exploring how you make meaning of the world.
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Portland, Oregon. I am originally from Lebanon and moved to the US 10 years ago. I love to help individuals gain more awareness into the unhelpful patterns in their life through higher self esteem, self confidence, and boundaries. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I have significant experience in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds.
![Photo of Jennifer E Kelly, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4e637639-8333-4830-ab73-12279e4ad51f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am an integrative therapist, specifically engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy with my clients.
Hello! I am now accepting Pacific Source clients! My approach to therapy is to establish a safe and warm environment where growth, awareness, and healing take place. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity for clients to build upon existing strengths and learn coping strategies to feel better about themselves and interact more effectively with others and the world around them. Through a collaborative and supportive relationship, our work together will help you explore and give voice to the difficult experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which may be interfering with you living the meaningful life that is important to you.
I am an integrative therapist, specifically engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy with my clients.
Hello! I am now accepting Pacific Source clients! My approach to therapy is to establish a safe and warm environment where growth, awareness, and healing take place. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity for clients to build upon existing strengths and learn coping strategies to feel better about themselves and interact more effectively with others and the world around them. Through a collaborative and supportive relationship, our work together will help you explore and give voice to the difficult experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which may be interfering with you living the meaningful life that is important to you.
![Photo of Melissa Rose Sanders, MA, LPC-A, CADC-I, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/896f0b4b-cab5-4712-9392-e5a744c913a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Rose Sanders
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-A, CADC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I use a Person Centered approach using Gestalt, Somatic awareness, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, DBT, CBT and creative expressive tools.
Currently Accepting Clients for July 2024. As your therapist, I strive to create a safe space to process, set goals, and work on making meaningful change in your life. Right now you may feel "stuck" and unsure of how to move forward. You are dealing with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety or other complications that are making life difficult and make your feel disconnected from yourself and others. I believe that together we can work towards helping you feel more joy, motivation, and empowerment in your life.
I use a Person Centered approach using Gestalt, Somatic awareness, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, DBT, CBT and creative expressive tools.
Currently Accepting Clients for July 2024. As your therapist, I strive to create a safe space to process, set goals, and work on making meaningful change in your life. Right now you may feel "stuck" and unsure of how to move forward. You are dealing with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety or other complications that are making life difficult and make your feel disconnected from yourself and others. I believe that together we can work towards helping you feel more joy, motivation, and empowerment in your life.
![Photo of Christine Kenline, MA, C-IAYT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a158a33e-e280-4015-abe8-c750facba004/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Kenline
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My intention is to provide a safe and compassionate container for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. A supportive space guides you toward slowing down and turning inward to tap into your true self. I believe the most beautiful gift you can offer the world is your fully aware, individuated, and integrated self, which allows you to cultivate genuine connections with yourself, others, and the world around you. I weave together my background in social science research and yoga movement therapy with mindfulness-based, body-centered therapies such as Transpersonal, Hakomi, and Gestalt to be with what's arising for you right now.
My intention is to provide a safe and compassionate container for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. A supportive space guides you toward slowing down and turning inward to tap into your true self. I believe the most beautiful gift you can offer the world is your fully aware, individuated, and integrated self, which allows you to cultivate genuine connections with yourself, others, and the world around you. I weave together my background in social science research and yoga movement therapy with mindfulness-based, body-centered therapies such as Transpersonal, Hakomi, and Gestalt to be with what's arising for you right now.
![Photo of Katie Solomon, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d48c04cb-5767-4a7b-ba8a-de873d6a7ac1/3/320x400.png)
I draw from Gestalt therapy, attachment theory, AEDP, and Internal Family Systems.
As a trauma-informed, somatic, and relational therapist, I approach therapy with a lot of curiosity, gentleness, and eagerness to explore what is happening for clients in the present moment. I often encourage clients to check in with the sensations in their bodies and may highlight patterns I notice. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where clients can access and explore their emotions and experiences, enabling a deeper connection to themselves and others. I also like to bring (appropriate) humor into sessions. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key part of the process!
I draw from Gestalt therapy, attachment theory, AEDP, and Internal Family Systems.
As a trauma-informed, somatic, and relational therapist, I approach therapy with a lot of curiosity, gentleness, and eagerness to explore what is happening for clients in the present moment. I often encourage clients to check in with the sensations in their bodies and may highlight patterns I notice. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where clients can access and explore their emotions and experiences, enabling a deeper connection to themselves and others. I also like to bring (appropriate) humor into sessions. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key part of the process!
![Photo of Colby Schneider, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24dc9241-310e-4d10-a882-3c828e7204a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Colby Schneider
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I offer guidance and unconditional positive regard to help people understand themselves using Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Humanistic, and Trauma Focused/Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Accepting New Clients - I help individuals and couples understand the deeper meaning of the problems that are holding them back and work with them so they can break free and reach their full potential. I use empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard to guide my practice while helping people understand themselves. Working together collaboratively but acknowledging that people are the experts of their own life, we will work together to end suffering while building self growth.
I offer guidance and unconditional positive regard to help people understand themselves using Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Humanistic, and Trauma Focused/Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Accepting New Clients - I help individuals and couples understand the deeper meaning of the problems that are holding them back and work with them so they can break free and reach their full potential. I use empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard to guide my practice while helping people understand themselves. Working together collaboratively but acknowledging that people are the experts of their own life, we will work together to end suffering while building self growth.
See more therapy options for Hood River
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.