Gestalt Therapists in Pennsylvania

Photo of Deb Callahan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deb Callahan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I am a certified Gestalt Therapist and will help you become more present and aware of your body-emotions.
Developing a relationship with a compassionate, skilled therapist who can help you be present with current life stressors or past traumas, can be an important part of healing. In my practice I work with adults and adolescents with a variety of issues but specialize in issues related to sexual trauma (childhood or adult), childhood emotional/physical abuse, domestic violence, lack of parental attunement, and growing up in a home where alcohol and drugs were abused. I also work with couples who are experiencing challenges in communication, connection and how past trauma effects this. I provide clinical supervision to therapists.
I am a certified Gestalt Therapist and will help you become more present and aware of your body-emotions.
Developing a relationship with a compassionate, skilled therapist who can help you be present with current life stressors or past traumas, can be an important part of healing. In my practice I work with adults and adolescents with a variety of issues but specialize in issues related to sexual trauma (childhood or adult), childhood emotional/physical abuse, domestic violence, lack of parental attunement, and growing up in a home where alcohol and drugs were abused. I also work with couples who are experiencing challenges in communication, connection and how past trauma effects this. I provide clinical supervision to therapists.
(215) 995-3246 View (215) 995-3246
Photo of Kristy Carnahan, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristy Carnahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Graduating from the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh in 2015 and the Gestalt Institute’s advanced training program in 2019, I currently serve as a faculty member there.
Life can be as challenging as it is rewarding. It is often useful to have a professional source of support when working through those challenges. If you are considering seeking counseling services and believe that a warm, caring, and nonjudgmental environment would be helpful in reaching your goals, I may be the right therapist for you. Whether you are facing a specific issue, such as difficulty in dealing with a traumatic experience, a mental health issue, relationships, divorce, or grief, or if you would like some general guidance in exploring options for personal growth, I am here to help.
Graduating from the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh in 2015 and the Gestalt Institute’s advanced training program in 2019, I currently serve as a faculty member there.
Life can be as challenging as it is rewarding. It is often useful to have a professional source of support when working through those challenges. If you are considering seeking counseling services and believe that a warm, caring, and nonjudgmental environment would be helpful in reaching your goals, I may be the right therapist for you. Whether you are facing a specific issue, such as difficulty in dealing with a traumatic experience, a mental health issue, relationships, divorce, or grief, or if you would like some general guidance in exploring options for personal growth, I am here to help.
(412) 924-8483 View (412) 924-8483
Photo of Heidi Sheldon - Pocono Counseling Associates, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pocono Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stroudsburg, PA 18360
Are you feeling stuck or repeating unhealthy patterns? Are you struggling to overcome emotional pain, self-doubt or other obstacles? Do you desire to live life more fully? As a board-certified licensed professional counselor, with more than ten years of experience, it is my honor to walk with you as you navigate the steppingstones on your way to your unique sense of well-being. I will provide solution-focused, strength-based, client-centered psychotherapy. I also have training in Gestalt therapy, which employs experiential and experimental techniques to enhance awareness, freedom and self-direction, including Gestalt Dream Work.
Are you feeling stuck or repeating unhealthy patterns? Are you struggling to overcome emotional pain, self-doubt or other obstacles? Do you desire to live life more fully? As a board-certified licensed professional counselor, with more than ten years of experience, it is my honor to walk with you as you navigate the steppingstones on your way to your unique sense of well-being. I will provide solution-focused, strength-based, client-centered psychotherapy. I also have training in Gestalt therapy, which employs experiential and experimental techniques to enhance awareness, freedom and self-direction, including Gestalt Dream Work.
(570) 206-9397 View (570) 206-9397
Photo of Barbara Eve Breitman, LCSW, DMin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Eve Breitman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DMin
Verified Verified
Elkins Park, PA 19027
Because my background includes a range of approaches from psychodynamic, to family systems, Gestalt, and psychodrama, it is possible for me to choose an approach that will be best suited to each person and situation.
There are times when we know we need a thoughtful, compassionate and skillful listener to help us sort things out. I have helped many people move through life transitions and losses with resilience; resolve relationship problems and discern new directions for work, school and creative expression.
Because my background includes a range of approaches from psychodynamic, to family systems, Gestalt, and psychodrama, it is possible for me to choose an approach that will be best suited to each person and situation.
There are times when we know we need a thoughtful, compassionate and skillful listener to help us sort things out. I have helped many people move through life transitions and losses with resilience; resolve relationship problems and discern new directions for work, school and creative expression.
(215) 600-4723 View (215) 600-4723
Photo of Grace Wagner, MEd, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace Wagner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Monroeville, PA 15146
Primarily, I use Gestalt Therapy, which emphasizes on personal strengths & being in present moment.
Are you stuck in a pattern that disrupts your happiness? Do you feel hurt, alone, or overwhelmed? I provide a safe environment where we can explore obstacles, fears, & struggles. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, problematic relationships, divorce, stress, family conflict, having loved one with addiction, & weight issues. I’ll work with you to understand unhealthy patterns, focus on strengths, develop coping mechanisms, & encourage perseverance during life’s challenges. Through awareness, growth, & choice you will have an opportunity to become your happiest, healthiest, & most fulfilled self.
Primarily, I use Gestalt Therapy, which emphasizes on personal strengths & being in present moment.
Are you stuck in a pattern that disrupts your happiness? Do you feel hurt, alone, or overwhelmed? I provide a safe environment where we can explore obstacles, fears, & struggles. I treat a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, problematic relationships, divorce, stress, family conflict, having loved one with addiction, & weight issues. I’ll work with you to understand unhealthy patterns, focus on strengths, develop coping mechanisms, & encourage perseverance during life’s challenges. Through awareness, growth, & choice you will have an opportunity to become your happiest, healthiest, & most fulfilled self.
(412) 253-4736 View (412) 253-4736
Photo of George M Leute, MA, Psychologist
George M Leute
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Media, PA 19063
I have trained in psychodynamic therapy, hypnosis, dream work, Gestalt Therapy, and couples work.
Each of us faces unique challenges as we go through life. Whether these challenges take the form of problems with work or relationships, with anxiety or depression, or simply with dissatisfaction over the current state of our lives, we all want to make improvements in how we experience our lives. We may also find that life presents certain demands of us at different stages requiring us to stretch beyond our accustomed habits and ways of being. Often our challenges can seem daunting, at times insurmountable, yet with the right support and perspective, we can be inspired to make positive changes.
I have trained in psychodynamic therapy, hypnosis, dream work, Gestalt Therapy, and couples work.
Each of us faces unique challenges as we go through life. Whether these challenges take the form of problems with work or relationships, with anxiety or depression, or simply with dissatisfaction over the current state of our lives, we all want to make improvements in how we experience our lives. We may also find that life presents certain demands of us at different stages requiring us to stretch beyond our accustomed habits and ways of being. Often our challenges can seem daunting, at times insurmountable, yet with the right support and perspective, we can be inspired to make positive changes.
(484) 441-0318 View (484) 441-0318
Photo of Allison Brunner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Brunner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malvern, PA 19355  (Online Only)
Opt for evidence-based, cutting edge individual or group therapy based on The Hakomi Method, Gestalt, IFS, Jungian Tarot—or even Quantum Touch and shamanic energy healing if you’d like.
“I love my therapist, but we’ve hit a plateau,” potential clients often say when reaching out to me. Or they’re tired of being treated like they’re broken. If you’ve spent years in therapy and are ready to go deeper and experience profound shifts and lasting change, try mindfulness-based, somatic (body-mind) psychotherapy and inner parts work. In short time, most new clients say, “Wow, that was very different from what I expected!”—in a positive way. If you’re a highly sensitive person (HSP), empath, or old soul yearning to be truly understood and are ready to process more deeply and talk and analyze less, welcome!
Opt for evidence-based, cutting edge individual or group therapy based on The Hakomi Method, Gestalt, IFS, Jungian Tarot—or even Quantum Touch and shamanic energy healing if you’d like.
“I love my therapist, but we’ve hit a plateau,” potential clients often say when reaching out to me. Or they’re tired of being treated like they’re broken. If you’ve spent years in therapy and are ready to go deeper and experience profound shifts and lasting change, try mindfulness-based, somatic (body-mind) psychotherapy and inner parts work. In short time, most new clients say, “Wow, that was very different from what I expected!”—in a positive way. If you’re a highly sensitive person (HSP), empath, or old soul yearning to be truly understood and are ready to process more deeply and talk and analyze less, welcome!
(215) 798-5586 View (215) 798-5586
Photo of Peter-William Myers, LPC , CNIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter-William Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CNIT
Verified Verified
Quakertown, PA 18951
I like to use cognitive behavior therapy and gestalt therapy to help my clients get from point A to point B, but I also like to get to know my clients so I can decide how I can best help them on their journey.
Are you feeling stuck in life, battling depression and anxiety, or experiencing relationship issues? I will walk alongside you in whatever journey you are on to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be, from learning new coping skills, improving communication skills, or improving your relationships.
I like to use cognitive behavior therapy and gestalt therapy to help my clients get from point A to point B, but I also like to get to know my clients so I can decide how I can best help them on their journey.
Are you feeling stuck in life, battling depression and anxiety, or experiencing relationship issues? I will walk alongside you in whatever journey you are on to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be, from learning new coping skills, improving communication skills, or improving your relationships.
(215) 944-5283 View (215) 944-5283
Photo of Andrew Burkett, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Burkett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Indiana, PA 15701  (Online Only)
I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, Person-Centered, Strengths-Based and Systemic/relationship focused therapy.
Taking the first step of seeking support already shows tremendous strength and awareness! My outlook on therapy operates under the belief that people are always growing and changing towards a better version of themselves. Through experiences, achievements, mistakes and obstacles we all have the opportunity to learn and grow. As your counselor, I will always strive to help and encourage you to learn from your past, take power over your present, and look forward to your future. I take a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling and work with each person to identify their strengths and needs.
I use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, Person-Centered, Strengths-Based and Systemic/relationship focused therapy.
Taking the first step of seeking support already shows tremendous strength and awareness! My outlook on therapy operates under the belief that people are always growing and changing towards a better version of themselves. Through experiences, achievements, mistakes and obstacles we all have the opportunity to learn and grow. As your counselor, I will always strive to help and encourage you to learn from your past, take power over your present, and look forward to your future. I take a holistic and eclectic approach to counseling and work with each person to identify their strengths and needs.
(724) 201-7471 View (724) 201-7471
Photo of Hayley Berot, MACMHC, NCC, CTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hayley Berot
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACMHC, NCC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Mills, PA 19342
Her primary modalities include EMDR and Somatic therapy; however, she often includes CBT, CPT, MI, Gestalt, and other experiential methods.
Hayley has a vast array of clinical experience working with both teens and adults who have experienced various forms of trauma including, but not limited to, sexual assault, child abuse or neglect, victims of crime, grief and loss, attachment trauma, vicarious trauma, and first responders. Hayley aims to collaboratively work with her clients to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and/or anxiety and teach clients the skills needed to attain positive growth and wellness in their lives.
Her primary modalities include EMDR and Somatic therapy; however, she often includes CBT, CPT, MI, Gestalt, and other experiential methods.
Hayley has a vast array of clinical experience working with both teens and adults who have experienced various forms of trauma including, but not limited to, sexual assault, child abuse or neglect, victims of crime, grief and loss, attachment trauma, vicarious trauma, and first responders. Hayley aims to collaboratively work with her clients to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and/or anxiety and teach clients the skills needed to attain positive growth and wellness in their lives.
(484) 759-9323 View (484) 759-9323
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 Quira Santos, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Quira Santos
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18020
I utilize a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, ACT, CBT, mindfulness, holistic, gestalt, multicultural, and systems focus, to tailor my approach to each client's unique needs.
I believe that everyone deserves to experience love and happiness, starting from within. My goal is not to help clients conform to societal norms but to help them love themselves as they are and achieve true self-acceptance and radical self-love. I firmly believe that everyone is deserving of compassion and support, and that everyone deserves a space to be heard and seen. Clients can expect to be warmly welcomed as they are. I strive to understand what is troubling you and work collaboratively to create a plan of action.
I utilize a variety of modalities, including psychodynamic, ACT, CBT, mindfulness, holistic, gestalt, multicultural, and systems focus, to tailor my approach to each client's unique needs.
I believe that everyone deserves to experience love and happiness, starting from within. My goal is not to help clients conform to societal norms but to help them love themselves as they are and achieve true self-acceptance and radical self-love. I firmly believe that everyone is deserving of compassion and support, and that everyone deserves a space to be heard and seen. Clients can expect to be warmly welcomed as they are. I strive to understand what is troubling you and work collaboratively to create a plan of action.
(484) 789-6872 View (484) 789-6872
Photo of Christine Kobik, MAAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Kobik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I have specialized training in Gestalt therapy, Art Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Training in work with children, teens and adults.
I believe that every person has the innate ability to heal, grow, and overcome even the most challenging of situations. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships. I use mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and have completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s two year training program. My goal is to help you to find your own inner path to healing so that you will always know how to take care of yourself no matter what may come your way.
I have specialized training in Gestalt therapy, Art Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness Training in work with children, teens and adults.
I believe that every person has the innate ability to heal, grow, and overcome even the most challenging of situations. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist and Gestalt Therapist I work to help people find their own inner strength, overcome challenges and improve relationships. I use mindfulness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and have completed the Gestalt Institute of Pittsburgh’s two year training program. My goal is to help you to find your own inner path to healing so that you will always know how to take care of yourself no matter what may come your way.
(412) 960-8427 View (412) 960-8427
Photo of Hilary Bayley Loielo, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hilary Bayley Loielo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125
I am a Certified Gestalt Therapist and have extensive training in Mindfulness-based techniques, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
Struggling with mental health issues and life transitions can feel isolating and overwhelming. My goal as a psychotherapist is to help you feel less alone and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. I emphasize the therapeutic relationship and work from a place of empathy, authenticity and compassion for the self. My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, addiction, and PTSD. Additionally, I am experienced in postpartum and perinatal anxiety and depression. I work with individuals, couples and families.
I am a Certified Gestalt Therapist and have extensive training in Mindfulness-based techniques, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
Struggling with mental health issues and life transitions can feel isolating and overwhelming. My goal as a psychotherapist is to help you feel less alone and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. I emphasize the therapeutic relationship and work from a place of empathy, authenticity and compassion for the self. My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, addiction, and PTSD. Additionally, I am experienced in postpartum and perinatal anxiety and depression. I work with individuals, couples and families.
(267) 323-1762 View (267) 323-1762
Photo of Jeanette D Egan, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeanette D Egan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Coopersburg, PA 18036
I help clients by using a psychodynamic approach that uses several treatment modalities; cognitive behavioral therapy, process work - Rogerian in nature, hypnotherapy, gestalt, and psychoeducational.
I am a Mental Health Therapist and Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist. I work with individuals, couples & families. I work with people who are experiencing issues in relationships, stress - anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, and Adult Children of Alcoholics and dysfunctional family systems issues. I work with people that have deep core issues that are not shifted by traditional treatment and decide to use hypnotherapy to break through deeply held stored trauma, old beliefs and old behaviors that no longer serve them. My clients goals are to lift the veil of feeling not-good-enough and embrace who they really are.
I help clients by using a psychodynamic approach that uses several treatment modalities; cognitive behavioral therapy, process work - Rogerian in nature, hypnotherapy, gestalt, and psychoeducational.
I am a Mental Health Therapist and Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist. I work with individuals, couples & families. I work with people who are experiencing issues in relationships, stress - anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, and Adult Children of Alcoholics and dysfunctional family systems issues. I work with people that have deep core issues that are not shifted by traditional treatment and decide to use hypnotherapy to break through deeply held stored trauma, old beliefs and old behaviors that no longer serve them. My clients goals are to lift the veil of feeling not-good-enough and embrace who they really are.
(484) 575-4054 View (484) 575-4054
Photo of Karen Ginsburg, LCSW, LMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Ginsburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT
Verified Verified
Ardmore, PA 19003
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Gestalt therapy, Developmental Somatic Psychotherapy and Somatic Experiencing.
Many of us encounter times in our lives when we need support and guidance to find our way. I provide a thoughtful, compassionate and attentive presence in which you can make sense of yourself, your past, your present and your future. I believe when we are truly listened to, we can heal our deepest wounds and develop our capacities to their greatest fulfillment. In over 20 years as a psychotherapist, I have helped people overcome a wide variety of issues, from depression and anxiety to relationship issues, career indecision, and addictions.
I am trained in Gestalt therapy, Developmental Somatic Psychotherapy and Somatic Experiencing.
Many of us encounter times in our lives when we need support and guidance to find our way. I provide a thoughtful, compassionate and attentive presence in which you can make sense of yourself, your past, your present and your future. I believe when we are truly listened to, we can heal our deepest wounds and develop our capacities to their greatest fulfillment. In over 20 years as a psychotherapist, I have helped people overcome a wide variety of issues, from depression and anxiety to relationship issues, career indecision, and addictions.
(646) 480-7421 View (646) 480-7421
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 Alisa Stamps, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisa Stamps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a certified Gestalt and IFS therapist, and am also certified in Dr.
You look in the mirror and see the "bad" traits. That you're not thin enough, not righteous enough, not "good" enough. You realize that these traits were projected there by someone else--a partner, or maybe even a parent. You want to recover from perhaps a lifetime of emotional pain and narcissistic abuse but you don't know where to begin...I specialize in treating adult children of narcissists, cult abuse/religious trauma survivors, and those struggling with disordered eating and body image issues. I can support you in developing your inner strengths so that when you look in the mirror it will be your true self staring back at you.
I am a certified Gestalt and IFS therapist, and am also certified in Dr.
You look in the mirror and see the "bad" traits. That you're not thin enough, not righteous enough, not "good" enough. You realize that these traits were projected there by someone else--a partner, or maybe even a parent. You want to recover from perhaps a lifetime of emotional pain and narcissistic abuse but you don't know where to begin...I specialize in treating adult children of narcissists, cult abuse/religious trauma survivors, and those struggling with disordered eating and body image issues. I can support you in developing your inner strengths so that when you look in the mirror it will be your true self staring back at you.
(267) 642-5396 View (267) 642-5396
Photo of Joel A. Makin, LMHC, LCAC, LPC, LPCC, Counselor
Joel A. Makin
Counselor, LMHC, LCAC, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15212  (Online Only)
I started working in private practice in 2011 under the supervision of a neuropsychologist. While in graduate school, I completed advanced studies at the Indianapolis Gestalt Institute for four years. After earning my master's degree in mental health counseling, I received advanced training and a post-master's in addiction counseling. In 2014, I trained in psychodynamic group psychotherapy and joined a youth residential facility for adolescent girls. Additionally, I led an intensive outpatient program for addiction treatment. From 2015 to 2022, I taught at Huntington University and Concordia University Irvine in graduate counseling.
I started working in private practice in 2011 under the supervision of a neuropsychologist. While in graduate school, I completed advanced studies at the Indianapolis Gestalt Institute for four years. After earning my master's degree in mental health counseling, I received advanced training and a post-master's in addiction counseling. In 2014, I trained in psychodynamic group psychotherapy and joined a youth residential facility for adolescent girls. Additionally, I led an intensive outpatient program for addiction treatment. From 2015 to 2022, I taught at Huntington University and Concordia University Irvine in graduate counseling.
(412) 912-1685 View (412) 912-1685
Photo of Hana Kubkova, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hana Kubkova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Pennsylvania with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in a variety of settings, including an inpatient and outpatient-psychiatry center, a foster care residential facility, a women’s counseling agency, and a drug and alcohol rehabilitation clinic. I currently see clients in my private practice in Philadelphia for short-term (10-12 sessions) or long-term treatment (6 months or longer), depending on their goals. My collaborative therapeutic approach combines multiple techniques (e.g. Gestalt, Psychodynamic, EMDR, CBT, and Mindfulness).
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Pennsylvania with 13 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked in a variety of settings, including an inpatient and outpatient-psychiatry center, a foster care residential facility, a women’s counseling agency, and a drug and alcohol rehabilitation clinic. I currently see clients in my private practice in Philadelphia for short-term (10-12 sessions) or long-term treatment (6 months or longer), depending on their goals. My collaborative therapeutic approach combines multiple techniques (e.g. Gestalt, Psychodynamic, EMDR, CBT, and Mindfulness).
(415) 917-2996 View (415) 917-2996
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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.