Gestalt Therapists in Alexandria, VA

Photo of Nina L Harvey-Bolden, MA, LPC-R, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nina L Harvey-Bolden
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I draw from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy, to provide comprehensive support.
Navigating our inner thoughts can often be challenging, especially when we don’t fully understand them ourselves. Let’s be honest—life can be tough. Facing it alone, without support, can feel even tougher. Whether you’re dealing with a recent breakup, family conflicts, or overwhelming stressors beyond your control, it’s easy to feel lost. However, seeking a way to cope and find peace of mind is essential. By engaging in a reflective process that allows you to examine your thoughts and behaviors, you can unlock the tools needed to navigate life’s complexities with greater purpose and resilience.
I draw from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy, to provide comprehensive support.
Navigating our inner thoughts can often be challenging, especially when we don’t fully understand them ourselves. Let’s be honest—life can be tough. Facing it alone, without support, can feel even tougher. Whether you’re dealing with a recent breakup, family conflicts, or overwhelming stressors beyond your control, it’s easy to feel lost. However, seeking a way to cope and find peace of mind is essential. By engaging in a reflective process that allows you to examine your thoughts and behaviors, you can unlock the tools needed to navigate life’s complexities with greater purpose and resilience.
(571) 688-5027 x1 View (571) 688-5027 x1
Photo of Rebecca Fry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Fry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Drawing from approaches in Gestalt, reality, client-centered, cognitive behavioral, and expressive therapy, I am able to provide a truly custom approach to help my clients reach their personal goals.
I am Rebecca Fry, a Licensed Professional Counselor who has always been passionate about helping others. Energetic, enthusiastic, and extremely conscientious, my unique personality equips me to provide friendly, loving, and wise counseling from a person-centered approach. I specialize in depression, anxiety, identity, sexual trauma, family of origin dysfunction, self-esteem, and confidence.
Drawing from approaches in Gestalt, reality, client-centered, cognitive behavioral, and expressive therapy, I am able to provide a truly custom approach to help my clients reach their personal goals.
I am Rebecca Fry, a Licensed Professional Counselor who has always been passionate about helping others. Energetic, enthusiastic, and extremely conscientious, my unique personality equips me to provide friendly, loving, and wise counseling from a person-centered approach. I specialize in depression, anxiety, identity, sexual trauma, family of origin dysfunction, self-esteem, and confidence.
(571) 568-7870 View (571) 568-7870
Photo of Del Ray Psych Wellness - Del Ray Psych & Wellness, LLC
Del Ray Psych & Wellness, LLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301
We bring a variety of experiences and techniques to our treatment approaches including, but not limited to, groundbreaking ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, somatic experiencing, mindfulness meditation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, gestalt therapy, art therapy, and EMDR.
We are a vibrant and energetic group of clinical psychologists, therapists, and wellness professionals located in the Del Ray area of Alexandria, VA. We are passionate about guiding adolescents and adults on their personal journeys of growth and transformation through a holistic approach to psychotherapy. We believe that wellness is attained by addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Our mission is to provide a trusting therapeutic relationship to each client, as it is an essential framework to facilitate self awareness, healing, and personal evolution.
We bring a variety of experiences and techniques to our treatment approaches including, but not limited to, groundbreaking ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, somatic experiencing, mindfulness meditation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, gestalt therapy, art therapy, and EMDR.
We are a vibrant and energetic group of clinical psychologists, therapists, and wellness professionals located in the Del Ray area of Alexandria, VA. We are passionate about guiding adolescents and adults on their personal journeys of growth and transformation through a holistic approach to psychotherapy. We believe that wellness is attained by addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Our mission is to provide a trusting therapeutic relationship to each client, as it is an essential framework to facilitate self awareness, healing, and personal evolution.
(571) 281-0338 View (571) 281-0338
Photo of Gordon Meredith, MA, MSS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gordon Meredith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MSS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Strong influences: Gestalt Therapy, Brainspotting & EMDR, Spiritual Psychology, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy & theAdlerian Healing of Early Memories.
People often enter therapy during times of emotional pain, uncertainty or at a time when they are seeking more meaning in their lives. Each person has within them a powerful impulse toward growth and healing. I trust that impulse and trust the therapeutic relationship to reveal your strengths, wisdom, and the next steps to your growth and healing. There is something of value in even the most difficult circumstances. When these circumstances are approached with an openness to learning, major transformations can take place. I find that the willingness to look inside yourself is a key factor in your healing.
Strong influences: Gestalt Therapy, Brainspotting & EMDR, Spiritual Psychology, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy & theAdlerian Healing of Early Memories.
People often enter therapy during times of emotional pain, uncertainty or at a time when they are seeking more meaning in their lives. Each person has within them a powerful impulse toward growth and healing. I trust that impulse and trust the therapeutic relationship to reveal your strengths, wisdom, and the next steps to your growth and healing. There is something of value in even the most difficult circumstances. When these circumstances are approached with an openness to learning, major transformations can take place. I find that the willingness to look inside yourself is a key factor in your healing.
(571) 998-1460 View (571) 998-1460
Photo of Nikki Lemke, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nikki Lemke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I apply a variety of modalities working with my clients such as CBT, Gestalt, & Polyvagel Theory.
Do you find yourself struggling in your most intimate personal relationships? Or feel like you're constantly playing small to make everyone else around you happy? Feeling misunderstood or unseen in your closest connections, is often a very lonely place to be. I can help you make sense of what seems like confusing interpersonal dynamics, so that you can begin to feel the genuine connection and sense of beloning we all crave as human beings. The self-knowledge, skills and insights you gain in session, are an investment into yourself and all your future relationships.
I apply a variety of modalities working with my clients such as CBT, Gestalt, & Polyvagel Theory.
Do you find yourself struggling in your most intimate personal relationships? Or feel like you're constantly playing small to make everyone else around you happy? Feeling misunderstood or unseen in your closest connections, is often a very lonely place to be. I can help you make sense of what seems like confusing interpersonal dynamics, so that you can begin to feel the genuine connection and sense of beloning we all crave as human beings. The self-knowledge, skills and insights you gain in session, are an investment into yourself and all your future relationships.
(571) 470-6368 x1 View (571) 470-6368 x1
Photo of Bianca Quiles, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bianca Quiles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
My primary clinical techniques derive from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy, ensuring an integrated and tailored approach to meet your unique needs.
“You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face… You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” - Eleanor Roosevelt. As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and Washington, DC with over 8 years of experience, my primary goal is to provide individuals with an environment that nurtures authenticity and personal growth. Clients seeking my guidance desire to be challenged and to actively work towards tangible, transformative goals. I aim to address the potential challenges of therapy with transparency and safety essential for self-exploration.
My primary clinical techniques derive from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy, ensuring an integrated and tailored approach to meet your unique needs.
“You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face… You must do the thing you think you cannot do.” - Eleanor Roosevelt. As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia and Washington, DC with over 8 years of experience, my primary goal is to provide individuals with an environment that nurtures authenticity and personal growth. Clients seeking my guidance desire to be challenged and to actively work towards tangible, transformative goals. I aim to address the potential challenges of therapy with transparency and safety essential for self-exploration.
(571) 520-3919 View (571) 520-3919
Photo of Jillian Houghton, MAEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillian Houghton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22305
I draw from a combination of Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, ACT, Narrative, Existential, Gestalt, and Somatic Therapy.
Religious trauma often coincides with believing that your heart is deceitful, your mind is fallen, your emotions are dangerous, and your body is sinful—beliefs that can be deeply rooted in your faith system. If you resonate with this, you understand the profound work that religious trauma survivors face in their healing journeys. Untangling these dehumanizing beliefs from your psyche is no small task. When you’ve been taught not to trust yourself, it can feel impossible to recognize the truth in your own thoughts, feelings, and physical responses. My role is to help you identify and navigate this tension.
I draw from a combination of Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems, ACT, Narrative, Existential, Gestalt, and Somatic Therapy.
Religious trauma often coincides with believing that your heart is deceitful, your mind is fallen, your emotions are dangerous, and your body is sinful—beliefs that can be deeply rooted in your faith system. If you resonate with this, you understand the profound work that religious trauma survivors face in their healing journeys. Untangling these dehumanizing beliefs from your psyche is no small task. When you’ve been taught not to trust yourself, it can feel impossible to recognize the truth in your own thoughts, feelings, and physical responses. My role is to help you identify and navigate this tension.
(540) 266-1891 View (540) 266-1891
Photo of Kristy Theodore, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristy Theodore
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Over the last 14 years, I have had the opportunity to work with youth, adults, and families to address issues related to depression, anxiety, ineffective parenting, addiction, personality disorders, relationship issues, family conflict, self-harm behaviors, and other life stressors. I also have extensive experience treating complex trauma and dedicated the last several years to working with survivors of sexual violence of all ages and backgrounds. I am passionate about helping clients heal from traumatic experiences as well as cultivating healthy and fulfilling relationships.
Over the last 14 years, I have had the opportunity to work with youth, adults, and families to address issues related to depression, anxiety, ineffective parenting, addiction, personality disorders, relationship issues, family conflict, self-harm behaviors, and other life stressors. I also have extensive experience treating complex trauma and dedicated the last several years to working with survivors of sexual violence of all ages and backgrounds. I am passionate about helping clients heal from traumatic experiences as well as cultivating healthy and fulfilling relationships.
(571) 450-9114 View (571) 450-9114
Photo of Derrick Stevens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Derrick Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I have had the pleasure to assist many individuals and families find the happiness and harmony they are seeking. I have also had the honor to provide guidance and support to clients navigating some of the hardest experiences in their lives. Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I frequently assist people navigating complex life situations, couples counseling, separation and divorce, blended family issues and major mental health diagnoses such as PTSD, bipolar, depression and anxiety.
I have had the pleasure to assist many individuals and families find the happiness and harmony they are seeking. I have also had the honor to provide guidance and support to clients navigating some of the hardest experiences in their lives. Greetings, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I frequently assist people navigating complex life situations, couples counseling, separation and divorce, blended family issues and major mental health diagnoses such as PTSD, bipolar, depression and anxiety.
(703) 940-9014 View (703) 940-9014
Photo of Ebony Canady, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ebony Canady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
A graduate of University of California Riverside and Norfolk State University, Ebony is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience treating all age groups in various settings and modalities like EMDR. She is trained and certified to work with grief, intellectual disabilities, and critical incident stress debriefing. She is also comfortable with substance abuse counseling, acute mental illness and crisis intervention as well as family counseling, trauma recovery, and perinatal mental healthcare.
A graduate of University of California Riverside and Norfolk State University, Ebony is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience treating all age groups in various settings and modalities like EMDR. She is trained and certified to work with grief, intellectual disabilities, and critical incident stress debriefing. She is also comfortable with substance abuse counseling, acute mental illness and crisis intervention as well as family counseling, trauma recovery, and perinatal mental healthcare.
(703) 810-7279 View (703) 810-7279
Photo of Heather Parker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Sometimes our lives can look fine "on paper" but it still feels like something is missing. Not knowing what that something is can be stressful, and even knowing exactly what that something is can be frustrating when knowing isn't enough. Whether you're struggling with your relationship, work, family, self-esteem, or sense of meaning and purpose, that struggle becomes heavier by trying to manage it all on your own. The truth is that nobody does life on their own, so you shouldn’t feel like you have to.
Sometimes our lives can look fine "on paper" but it still feels like something is missing. Not knowing what that something is can be stressful, and even knowing exactly what that something is can be frustrating when knowing isn't enough. Whether you're struggling with your relationship, work, family, self-esteem, or sense of meaning and purpose, that struggle becomes heavier by trying to manage it all on your own. The truth is that nobody does life on their own, so you shouldn’t feel like you have to.
(571) 992-0130 View (571) 992-0130
Photo of Amanda Cepero, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Cepero
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
If you are motivated for change, welcome! My focus is to explore how your past and present relationships/coping patterns influence your life. I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT). I treat a vast array of conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, couples counseling, parenting training, premarital counseling, divorce, grief and loss, medical conditions and concerns, significant life transitions, trauma, OCD, grief, and spirituality.
If you are motivated for change, welcome! My focus is to explore how your past and present relationships/coping patterns influence your life. I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT). I treat a vast array of conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, imposter syndrome, depression, couples counseling, parenting training, premarital counseling, divorce, grief and loss, medical conditions and concerns, significant life transitions, trauma, OCD, grief, and spirituality.
(203) 875-0933 View (203) 875-0933
Photo of Jennifer Redlin, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Redlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor (LMHC, LPC) with over 10 years of experience assisting adults who are struggling with trauma, shame, regret, difficult life transitions, low feelings of self-worth, anxiety, depression, and identity-related issues.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor (LMHC, LPC) with over 10 years of experience assisting adults who are struggling with trauma, shame, regret, difficult life transitions, low feelings of self-worth, anxiety, depression, and identity-related issues.
(571) 556-9889 View (571) 556-9889
Photo of Dinelly Holder - Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services , Dr, Dinelly, Holder, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Higher Life Pathways Counseling Services
Counselor, Dr, Dinelly, Holder, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Feeling stressed? Experiencing high anxiety or tired of stress? Sometimes it can be difficult to overcome stressors and anxieties on our own. If you are having difficulties handling life stressors, there are ways to overcome and alleviate what you are going through. We will begin with the problem, then strategies to resolve your issue, then you will learn how to solve a variety of stressful issues in your life. If you are committed to lowering stress and anxiety levels in your life, CLICK on our website to request an appointment. Additionally, you can contact us thru text/phone at 571.946.8115 or info@higherlifepathways.com
Feeling stressed? Experiencing high anxiety or tired of stress? Sometimes it can be difficult to overcome stressors and anxieties on our own. If you are having difficulties handling life stressors, there are ways to overcome and alleviate what you are going through. We will begin with the problem, then strategies to resolve your issue, then you will learn how to solve a variety of stressful issues in your life. If you are committed to lowering stress and anxiety levels in your life, CLICK on our website to request an appointment. Additionally, you can contact us thru text/phone at 571.946.8115 or info@higherlifepathways.com
(571) 458-1428 View (571) 458-1428
Photo of Tara Newton, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Newton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Tara maintains a strength-based & culturally competent framework in her practice. She has a passion for supporting others as they uncover their individual strength & resilience. She understands that life may inevitably involve seasons of great difficulty and despair; yet, such instances are often the defining catalysts for human growth, triumph & restoration
Tara maintains a strength-based & culturally competent framework in her practice. She has a passion for supporting others as they uncover their individual strength & resilience. She understands that life may inevitably involve seasons of great difficulty and despair; yet, such instances are often the defining catalysts for human growth, triumph & restoration
(202) 816-5371 View (202) 816-5371
Photo of Meghan Burns, LPC, LMHC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meghan Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22301
Waitlist for new clients. Are you a college student navigating challenges of academics and social life? Are you looking to understand who you are as a young adult? Do you have a teen or adolescent who could benefit from tools to manage the stressors of teen years? I’m here to help young adults, teens, and adolescents grow through and manage life’s challenges. I aim to help increase self-awareness, discover what healthy communication is, and create awareness of the mind-body connection for overall wellness. My approach creates space and fosters growth for clients to improve themselves for the better.
Waitlist for new clients. Are you a college student navigating challenges of academics and social life? Are you looking to understand who you are as a young adult? Do you have a teen or adolescent who could benefit from tools to manage the stressors of teen years? I’m here to help young adults, teens, and adolescents grow through and manage life’s challenges. I aim to help increase self-awareness, discover what healthy communication is, and create awareness of the mind-body connection for overall wellness. My approach creates space and fosters growth for clients to improve themselves for the better.
(571) 281-0338 x504 View (571) 281-0338 x504
Photo of Brenda Montero, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenda Montero
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
If there is one thing that I find particularly bothersome is when people feel the need to judge others. I can tell you that will not happen should you consider to work with me. I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment in order for you to work on healing yourself. The passion I have to help others allowed me the opportunity to begin my therapeutic journey more than 17 years ago. Throughout the years I have worked with children, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with mental health challenges.
If there is one thing that I find particularly bothersome is when people feel the need to judge others. I can tell you that will not happen should you consider to work with me. I am here to provide a safe and non-judgmental environment in order for you to work on healing yourself. The passion I have to help others allowed me the opportunity to begin my therapeutic journey more than 17 years ago. Throughout the years I have worked with children, adolescents, families, and adults struggling with mental health challenges.
(571) 200-6515 View (571) 200-6515
Photo of Cynthia Miller, MA, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
I am offering telehealth services only. The purpose of therapy, as opposed to just talking with a friend or family member, is to facilitate personal and professional growth. This growth is typically most needed in the areas of relationships, mood, performance and an overall improved integration of one's identity and values. In order to make growth possible, one must feel safe in an objective, confidential environment. My primary goal is to offer a safe and supportive place for change. Throughout the entire process, I will encourage, guide, challenge and support you in making the changes you deem to be right for you.
I am offering telehealth services only. The purpose of therapy, as opposed to just talking with a friend or family member, is to facilitate personal and professional growth. This growth is typically most needed in the areas of relationships, mood, performance and an overall improved integration of one's identity and values. In order to make growth possible, one must feel safe in an objective, confidential environment. My primary goal is to offer a safe and supportive place for change. Throughout the entire process, I will encourage, guide, challenge and support you in making the changes you deem to be right for you.
(540) 277-9801 View (540) 277-9801
Photo of Chantay Pleshett White-Eley - Mending Hearts Christian Counseling Services, PhD, LCSW, BCD, CEAP, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mending Hearts Christian Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Increase your self-esteem, improve your relationships, strengthen your family, decrease self-defeating behaviors, and make lasting changes in your life! I welcome the opportunity to work with you on your journey with a Christian mindset. Counseling is an avenue for healing, exploration and growth. Let the healing begin! I love working with individuals, couples and families who are ready to move forward in life with hope. Progress is enhanced when there is commitment and accountable. Through a positive therapeutic relationship, progress will come. Let's journey together.
Increase your self-esteem, improve your relationships, strengthen your family, decrease self-defeating behaviors, and make lasting changes in your life! I welcome the opportunity to work with you on your journey with a Christian mindset. Counseling is an avenue for healing, exploration and growth. Let the healing begin! I love working with individuals, couples and families who are ready to move forward in life with hope. Progress is enhanced when there is commitment and accountable. Through a positive therapeutic relationship, progress will come. Let's journey together.
(202) 604-3401 View (202) 604-3401
Photo of Ashley Patrican, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Patrican
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
I believe that therapy is about the journey towards self-discovery and joining that person on a quest to seek out the answers they already have within themselves. The ideal client is a person who is open to learning, determined to self-improve and committed to the therapeutic relationship. My experiences with mental health range from: autism, mood disorders, postpartum depression, lyme disease, suicide ideation, gender identity concerns,personality disorders, chronic pain, trauma, behavioral management, social skills training, parent training, psychosis to substance use.. My career background is in schools, crisis stabilization, home-based counseling and working with INOVA.
(571) 474-3064 View (571) 474-3064
1
Gestalt Therapists

What is gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is based on the idea that to address unresolved negative feelings, emotions must be not only discussed but also actively expressed in the present moment. The term is from a German word meaning “whole,” and gestalt therapists believe that people should be considered whole entities made up of mind, body, and emotions. Gestalt sessions are rooted in the notion that a client’s total self must be discovered, explored, and confronted, so that they can take greater responsibility for themselves and their behavior, learn to satisfy their own needs while still respecting the needs of others, and reconnect with feelings they might otherwise deny.

How does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy sessions do not just involve talking with a therapist. Clients may take part in role-playing, re-enactment, or artistic exercises like drawing and painting, with the goal of becoming more aware of negative thought patterns that limit happiness. One common gestalt exercise is “the empty chair,” in which a client sits across from an empty chair representing a partner, relative, boss, or a part of themselves—and, with the therapist’s encouragement, improvises a dialog with it. The intention is to bring the emotions raised by past conflicts into the present and work through them in the moment.

How long does gestalt therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for gestalt therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. New patients should understand that it may take some time to become comfortable with gestalt exercises but once they do, they should expect sessions to extend for a number of months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions.

Does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy has generally been found to be as effective as other forms of talk therapy in helping people living with anxiety, depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as helping individuals reduce conflict in relationships. Gestalt techniques, on their own or in combination with other therapies, can also be effective in managing physical ailments including ulcerative colitis, migraines, and back spasms. It should be noted that some people may have trouble adapting to gestalt therapy’s lack of formal structure or to a therapist’s close observations of their body language and emotions; others may struggle to commit to techniques that feel unnatural, like the empty chair exercise.