Photo of James Alderfer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Alderfer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kimberton, PA 19442
I operate on the assumption that body, soul, and spirit matter, and use an experiential approach to healing based largely on Gestalt Therapy principles.
I provide therapeutic services for individuals and families who are struggling with difficult relationships, and for anyone needing help navigating challenging states of being or life situations. Perhaps troubling emotions, including numbness, are separating you from others and from participating in the world, keeping you disconnected from life. Perhaps you are at an impasse where the old ways of life are no longer working and the new have not yet emerged; maybe you are giving up hope of meaningful contact with others and on how you fit in this world.
I operate on the assumption that body, soul, and spirit matter, and use an experiential approach to healing based largely on Gestalt Therapy principles.
I provide therapeutic services for individuals and families who are struggling with difficult relationships, and for anyone needing help navigating challenging states of being or life situations. Perhaps troubling emotions, including numbness, are separating you from others and from participating in the world, keeping you disconnected from life. Perhaps you are at an impasse where the old ways of life are no longer working and the new have not yet emerged; maybe you are giving up hope of meaningful contact with others and on how you fit in this world.
(484) 246-8842 View (484) 246-8842
Photo of Marta W Ludwig, MSW, LCSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marta W Ludwig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Narberth, PA 19072
I have received extensive training in Psychoanalytic psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, and other body-oriented therapies, as well as couples therapy.
I am best suited for clients who want liberation/transformation as opposed to symptom management. I specialize in deep relational treatment. I help people reach a state of self-love and acceptance. I am a trans-affirming therapist.
I have received extensive training in Psychoanalytic psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, and other body-oriented therapies, as well as couples therapy.
I am best suited for clients who want liberation/transformation as opposed to symptom management. I specialize in deep relational treatment. I help people reach a state of self-love and acceptance. I am a trans-affirming therapist.
(610) 379-3049 View (610) 379-3049
Photo of Gloria Ward, MA, MS, NCC, BCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gloria Ward
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MS, NCC, BCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17112
I use a combination of approaches from Person-Centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt and Positive Psychology, all of which will help you focus on changing your life in powerful ways.
Hi, I'm Gloria! Thank you for pausing here. Deciding to look for help was hard to begin with and finding the right helper seems even more difficult, I know. Whatever issues you are facing, perhaps its depression that is attached to your past, stress related to your present, or anxiety that is attaching itself to your future, I can help you work through it. It’s a privilege for me to be able to share lessons of hope and walk alongside my clients, until they have the breakthrough that they so desperately desire. My greatest joy is to see you step out from darkness into a brighter, lighter future – stronger, wiser, and hopeful!
I use a combination of approaches from Person-Centered therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt and Positive Psychology, all of which will help you focus on changing your life in powerful ways.
Hi, I'm Gloria! Thank you for pausing here. Deciding to look for help was hard to begin with and finding the right helper seems even more difficult, I know. Whatever issues you are facing, perhaps its depression that is attached to your past, stress related to your present, or anxiety that is attaching itself to your future, I can help you work through it. It’s a privilege for me to be able to share lessons of hope and walk alongside my clients, until they have the breakthrough that they so desperately desire. My greatest joy is to see you step out from darkness into a brighter, lighter future – stronger, wiser, and hopeful!
(717) 647-5730 View (717) 647-5730
Photo of Gloria Pamela Schweitzer, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gloria Pamela Schweitzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
I incorporate Gestalt therapy methods in order to help clients focus and learn to enjoy the moment.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has provided therapeutic services over the past 10 years in the following settings; A Community Treatment Team; Family Outpatient Services; Art Therapy at a Fine Arts Institution; and an Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Residential Treatment Facility. I have provided therapy to children, adolescents, adults and their families, helping them with anxiety and depression disorders, substance abuse, trauma, complicated grief, and anger management.
I incorporate Gestalt therapy methods in order to help clients focus and learn to enjoy the moment.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has provided therapeutic services over the past 10 years in the following settings; A Community Treatment Team; Family Outpatient Services; Art Therapy at a Fine Arts Institution; and an Inpatient Drug and Alcohol Residential Treatment Facility. I have provided therapy to children, adolescents, adults and their families, helping them with anxiety and depression disorders, substance abuse, trauma, complicated grief, and anger management.
(724) 359-2211 View (724) 359-2211
Photo of Rebecca Taylor - Rebecca Taylor, PsyD, LP, OTR, Psychologist
Rebecca Taylor
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, OTR
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
, Gestalt, CBT, mindfulness, interpersonal, DBT, etc.
Are you feeling stuck, discouraged or anxious? For years, I have had the privilege of accompanying individuals with a wide variety of challenges as they have struggled, found their unique path, created more satisfying relationships and lives, and reached their goals. My belief is that you have an innate ability to heal within you. You are the expert on yourself, and I bring my compassion, my passion for listening, and my nonjudgmental approach to our work together. My goal is to be present, to empower you, and to use my skills as a clinical psychologist for your benefit.
, Gestalt, CBT, mindfulness, interpersonal, DBT, etc.
Are you feeling stuck, discouraged or anxious? For years, I have had the privilege of accompanying individuals with a wide variety of challenges as they have struggled, found their unique path, created more satisfying relationships and lives, and reached their goals. My belief is that you have an innate ability to heal within you. You are the expert on yourself, and I bring my compassion, my passion for listening, and my nonjudgmental approach to our work together. My goal is to be present, to empower you, and to use my skills as a clinical psychologist for your benefit.
(412) 906-9582 View (412) 906-9582
Photo of Shanelle Clay, LPC, NCC, ACS, , Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanelle Clay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15205  (Online Only)
I specialize in Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, REBT, and solution-focused methods.
When we are in the middle of finding out about ourselves, solving the problems that we sometimes have no solutions, or mourning what life has brought us, we are growing- Mentally, Emotionally, and Spiritually. Therapy is a place where you can embrace all those things through holding space for wellness and healing. As a clinician who specializes in the healing of Black and Brown people, I ensure that I use therapy modalities and the lived experience to assist in the healing process.
I specialize in Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, REBT, and solution-focused methods.
When we are in the middle of finding out about ourselves, solving the problems that we sometimes have no solutions, or mourning what life has brought us, we are growing- Mentally, Emotionally, and Spiritually. Therapy is a place where you can embrace all those things through holding space for wellness and healing. As a clinician who specializes in the healing of Black and Brown people, I ensure that I use therapy modalities and the lived experience to assist in the healing process.
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Photo of Judith Stern, PsyD, Psychologist
Judith Stern
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wyndmoor, PA 19038
Hello there...I'm an experienced therapist with a large "tool kit." This enables me to tailor therapy to YOU, since no single approach works for all problems and all people. I've been trained in Gestalt therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, NET (Neuro-emotional technique), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), family therapy and EFFT (Emotion Focused Family Therapy), and hypnosis.
Hello there...I'm an experienced therapist with a large "tool kit." This enables me to tailor therapy to YOU, since no single approach works for all problems and all people. I've been trained in Gestalt therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, NET (Neuro-emotional technique), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), family therapy and EFFT (Emotion Focused Family Therapy), and hypnosis.
(215) 392-0647 View (215) 392-0647
Photo of Colin O'Grady, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colin O'Grady
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Squirrel Hill, PA 15217
I utilize an eclectic counseling approach drawing upon a variety of counseling interventions when working with clients with a specific focus on Gestalt Therapy (unfinished business-insight), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (irrational thoughts), and Person Centered Therapy (compassionate facilitator).
****Teletherapy Available****Hello and nice to meet you. I look forward to supporting your journey of problem solving, gaining insight and living a fuller life. Are your family members practicing "unhealthy" communication habits? Is your child, adolescent or college age student struggling in school? If so, counseling may be an option. I am a former School Counselor for 12 years, so I am well versed in a variety of school related issues such as academic and career counseling and personal or social difficulties.
I utilize an eclectic counseling approach drawing upon a variety of counseling interventions when working with clients with a specific focus on Gestalt Therapy (unfinished business-insight), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (irrational thoughts), and Person Centered Therapy (compassionate facilitator).
****Teletherapy Available****Hello and nice to meet you. I look forward to supporting your journey of problem solving, gaining insight and living a fuller life. Are your family members practicing "unhealthy" communication habits? Is your child, adolescent or college age student struggling in school? If so, counseling may be an option. I am a former School Counselor for 12 years, so I am well versed in a variety of school related issues such as academic and career counseling and personal or social difficulties.
(724) 620-4909 View (724) 620-4909
Photo of Michael Craig Clemmens, PhD, Psychologist
Michael Craig Clemmens
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I am a Gestalt Therapist and utilize creative approaches to help clients.
I have been a psychologist for 35 years and work with clients who are interested in exploring their options in how they live in the world. I see the therapeutic process as a dialogue between two partners in exploration and developing resources. For me choice supports health and that clients sometime come with a lack of awareness of these choices or needing to develop more internal and interpersonal supports. I work in the present moment as well as connecting present patterns to client's history as well as the larger contextual field. My approach is relational and somatic from a Gestalt Therapy base.
I am a Gestalt Therapist and utilize creative approaches to help clients.
I have been a psychologist for 35 years and work with clients who are interested in exploring their options in how they live in the world. I see the therapeutic process as a dialogue between two partners in exploration and developing resources. For me choice supports health and that clients sometime come with a lack of awareness of these choices or needing to develop more internal and interpersonal supports. I work in the present moment as well as connecting present patterns to client's history as well as the larger contextual field. My approach is relational and somatic from a Gestalt Therapy base.
(412) 275-4534 View (412) 275-4534
Melissa Galiotto EMDR Cert.
LPC, NCC, EMDR , Cert
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aspinwall, PA 15215
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR/IFS (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
I welcome working with anyone interested in the therapy process regardless of their issues or goals. There are many options for coping skills such as from EMDR/IFS (emdria certified); Gestalt, Existential, DBT, CBT and Mindfulness. Past/ current clients have worked through generational trauma, disordered eating, sexual assault, family and/ or marital concerns, trauma, depression and anxiety, attention deficit, career and direction of life concerns. It is common to struggle with the first step of reaching out to a provider.. typically people feel relief once they start talking to and then selecting a provider.
(412) 888-0452 View (412) 888-0452
Photo of Seema Chaubey, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Seema Chaubey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Huntingdon, PA 15642  (Online Only)
As a counselor I have 20+ years of experience working with adults and children. I treat my clients in a compassionate and professional manner and my approach is usually eclectic as I choose them according to the needs of my client. Techniques used by me are CBT, REBT, ACT, Motivational, Gestalt approach, meditation, relaxation and guided imagery. My expertise is in mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorders, and on anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder, and phobias. Anger management in relationships and marriage and relationship therapy are also my interest areas as well as resolution of trauma issues, whether acute or chronic. I have and continue to treat dually diagnosed substance abuse clients.
As a counselor I have 20+ years of experience working with adults and children. I treat my clients in a compassionate and professional manner and my approach is usually eclectic as I choose them according to the needs of my client. Techniques used by me are CBT, REBT, ACT, Motivational, Gestalt approach, meditation, relaxation and guided imagery. My expertise is in mood disorders such as depression, bipolar disorders, and on anxiety disorders such as OCD, panic disorder, and phobias. Anger management in relationships and marriage and relationship therapy are also my interest areas as well as resolution of trauma issues, whether acute or chronic. I have and continue to treat dually diagnosed substance abuse clients.
(609) 778-1512 View (609) 778-1512
Photo of Nate Schlingmann, LPC, MA, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nate Schlingmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Using Gestalt Therapy I'll help you approach challenges from a different perspective which allows you to make choices and take actions that create possibility.
I enjoy helping clients who want to explore themselves and work towards being more accepting and confident in who they truly are. If you want to gain a broader perspective in how you are approaching your relationships, both personal and professional, I'd love to help you. Growth and change are challenging, and can also be fun and exciting. In our work we'll practice being more aware of what is really there for you in the area(s) you're working on. It might be that devloping a new skillset in your relationship will help it grow, or that you need help ending a relationship and starting a new one.
Using Gestalt Therapy I'll help you approach challenges from a different perspective which allows you to make choices and take actions that create possibility.
I enjoy helping clients who want to explore themselves and work towards being more accepting and confident in who they truly are. If you want to gain a broader perspective in how you are approaching your relationships, both personal and professional, I'd love to help you. Growth and change are challenging, and can also be fun and exciting. In our work we'll practice being more aware of what is really there for you in the area(s) you're working on. It might be that devloping a new skillset in your relationship will help it grow, or that you need help ending a relationship and starting a new one.
(267) 214-9169 View (267) 214-9169
Photo of Deborah Marie Migyanko, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Marie Migyanko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Uniontown, PA 15401
I use various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Reality, Gestalt.
I create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe in sharing their stories. I specialize in areas such as adolescents, young adults, families of adolescents, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, sport, health, human performance and trauma. I believe in treating the person as a whole. I can provide you with various coping skills. I am passionate about assisting my clients to move forward in their lives.
I use various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Reality, Gestalt.
I create a warm and supportive environment where my clients feel safe in sharing their stories. I specialize in areas such as adolescents, young adults, families of adolescents, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, sport, health, human performance and trauma. I believe in treating the person as a whole. I can provide you with various coping skills. I am passionate about assisting my clients to move forward in their lives.
(724) 918-0311 View (724) 918-0311
Photo of Alyson Nerenberg - Alyson Nerenberg Psychology Associates, PC, PsyD, CSAT, Psychologist
Alyson Nerenberg Psychology Associates, PC
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Trained in a variety of therapy modalities (family systems, gestalt,cognitive behavioral psychodynamic ).
Dr.Alyson Nerenberg, a clinical psychologist is a compassionate and dynamic therapist with over 30 years in practice. She works with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, divorce, addictions and eating disorders. Dr. Nerenberg integrates philosophies from the medical, psychological and self-help communities in order to treat the whole person. She is a positive person who focuses on her clients strengths in order to help them heal.
Trained in a variety of therapy modalities (family systems, gestalt,cognitive behavioral psychodynamic ).
Dr.Alyson Nerenberg, a clinical psychologist is a compassionate and dynamic therapist with over 30 years in practice. She works with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, divorce, addictions and eating disorders. Dr. Nerenberg integrates philosophies from the medical, psychological and self-help communities in order to treat the whole person. She is a positive person who focuses on her clients strengths in order to help them heal.
(610) 331-7303 View (610) 331-7303
Photo of Dr. Stacia K. Wilkins, PsyD, LPC, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Stacia K. Wilkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glen Mills, PA 19342  (Online Only)
Leadership is not for the faint of heart and it can get lonely at the top. Who leads the leader? Who tows the tow truck? My work is passionately dedicated to the wellness of those in leadership positions and creating a safe space to express themselves. Whether you're dealing with imposter syndrome, stress and burnout, emotional dysregulation, psychological injury, racial microaggressions, or work life balance we will work together to identify the root cause and implement strategies to overcome your issues of concern. Regardless of your leadership position, I am committed to journeying with you as you process through tough
Leadership is not for the faint of heart and it can get lonely at the top. Who leads the leader? Who tows the tow truck? My work is passionately dedicated to the wellness of those in leadership positions and creating a safe space to express themselves. Whether you're dealing with imposter syndrome, stress and burnout, emotional dysregulation, psychological injury, racial microaggressions, or work life balance we will work together to identify the root cause and implement strategies to overcome your issues of concern. Regardless of your leadership position, I am committed to journeying with you as you process through tough
(610) 854-8663 View (610) 854-8663
Photo of Jennifer O'Brien, MA, LAPC, ICAADC, C-DBT
Jennifer O'Brien
Associate Professional Counselor, MA, LAPC, ICAADC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
I specialize in Substance use disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and gender identity issues. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and also work with clients living with depression, anxiety, psychotic spectrum disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Post-Partum Depression. I have also worked with clients on the Autism Spectrum, worked closely with behavioral analysis, behavior modification, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. Womens' issues in counseling has always been a main focus for me as well as working with trans women.
I specialize in Substance use disorders, relationship issues, trauma, and gender identity issues. I am certified in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and also work with clients living with depression, anxiety, psychotic spectrum disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and Post-Partum Depression. I have also worked with clients on the Autism Spectrum, worked closely with behavioral analysis, behavior modification, and Cognitive Behavioral therapy. Womens' issues in counseling has always been a main focus for me as well as working with trans women.
(412) 408-4015 x2 View (412) 408-4015 x2
Photo of Judith Wilson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
“Don’t ever make decisions based on fear. Make decisions based on hope and possibility” (M. Obama). Using specialized techniques, listening skills, and compassion, I want to help you repair the impact that fear, poverty, abuse, and trauma has had on your life. Whether it is PTSD, ADHD, domestic violence, childhood trauma, substance abuse, or sex worker/sex positive–kink allied therapy that you seek, I can help. I want to assist you in improving the quality of your life so that fear, emotional pain and suffering no longer have to control your life. You can learn to be in control of all these things. Start by giving me a call.
“Don’t ever make decisions based on fear. Make decisions based on hope and possibility” (M. Obama). Using specialized techniques, listening skills, and compassion, I want to help you repair the impact that fear, poverty, abuse, and trauma has had on your life. Whether it is PTSD, ADHD, domestic violence, childhood trauma, substance abuse, or sex worker/sex positive–kink allied therapy that you seek, I can help. I want to assist you in improving the quality of your life so that fear, emotional pain and suffering no longer have to control your life. You can learn to be in control of all these things. Start by giving me a call.
(412) 376-4918 View (412) 376-4918
Photo of Rasheedah M Thompson, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Rasheedah M Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
2024 is more than half way through and you’re either riding this roller coaster of life or letting this life ride all over you. If you are finding it hard to stay motivated, get out of the bed, having trouble in your marriage or attempting to have a happy divorce you may need interventions that can help you make these last 5 months your best yet to turn your 2024 in your favor. Well first you have to prioritize your mental health and can you can do that more efficiently without feeling the financial burden of seeking the help you need. If you are ready to do that click the website to stay in touch.
2024 is more than half way through and you’re either riding this roller coaster of life or letting this life ride all over you. If you are finding it hard to stay motivated, get out of the bed, having trouble in your marriage or attempting to have a happy divorce you may need interventions that can help you make these last 5 months your best yet to turn your 2024 in your favor. Well first you have to prioritize your mental health and can you can do that more efficiently without feeling the financial burden of seeking the help you need. If you are ready to do that click the website to stay in touch.
(412) 336-3230 View (412) 336-3230
Photo of Jasmine DeBeary, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine DeBeary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222  (Online Only)
Struggling with issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma from domestic violence? Meet Jasmine, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Pennsylvania with a wealth of experience in behavioral and mental health. Over her 14-year career, she has counseled clients across diverse age groups and different settings such as hospitals, schools, and outpatient facilities. Jasmine uses an integrated therapeutic approach that combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, person-centered, and narrative techniques, customized to each client's unique needs and goals.
Struggling with issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma from domestic violence? Meet Jasmine, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Pennsylvania with a wealth of experience in behavioral and mental health. Over her 14-year career, she has counseled clients across diverse age groups and different settings such as hospitals, schools, and outpatient facilities. Jasmine uses an integrated therapeutic approach that combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, person-centered, and narrative techniques, customized to each client's unique needs and goals.
(412) 223-8334 View (412) 223-8334
Photo of Claudette Guider, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudette Guider
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! Are you struggling with showing yourself self-compassion? Are you ready to regain your spark and power? Are you a domestic violence survivor or struggling to get out of an unhealthy relationship? Are you ready to start your journey to Self-Love? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, than you are in the right place! For the past 15 years, as a Mental Health Therapist, I have been working with adolescents and adults that struggle with symptoms of trauma such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, loss of sense "Who I am", low self-worth, and mistrust by helping them find their purpose and their "WHY".
Hello and Welcome! Are you struggling with showing yourself self-compassion? Are you ready to regain your spark and power? Are you a domestic violence survivor or struggling to get out of an unhealthy relationship? Are you ready to start your journey to Self-Love? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, than you are in the right place! For the past 15 years, as a Mental Health Therapist, I have been working with adolescents and adults that struggle with symptoms of trauma such as PTSD, depression, anxiety, loss of sense "Who I am", low self-worth, and mistrust by helping them find their purpose and their "WHY".
(717) 670-6509 View (717) 670-6509
1

See more therapy options for Pennsylvania

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.