Gestalt Therapists in Dekalb, IL

Photo of Jayne A Braden - Braden Counseling Center, P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
Braden Counseling Center, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Braden Counseling Center (BCC) specializes in counseling individuals, couples and families in various stages of life. With flexible scheduling, Sycamore, Rochelle, and Elgin locations, and a free initial consultation, BCC makes it easy for you to make the first step toward change. We accept various insurance types, and also offer a sliding scale for those who qualify.
Braden Counseling Center (BCC) specializes in counseling individuals, couples and families in various stages of life. With flexible scheduling, Sycamore, Rochelle, and Elgin locations, and a free initial consultation, BCC makes it easy for you to make the first step toward change. We accept various insurance types, and also offer a sliding scale for those who qualify.
(815) 401-1212 View (815) 401-1212
Photo of Michael W. Elgersma, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michael W. Elgersma
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult and frustrating. Our lives can become messy and complicated. But there is hope. I am dedicated to walking alongside of others to help them find hope and make some sense of their life and experiences. I sincerely believe that counseling gives an individual the opportunity to experience significant growth and healing through a greater personal awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Life can be difficult and frustrating. Our lives can become messy and complicated. But there is hope. I am dedicated to walking alongside of others to help them find hope and make some sense of their life and experiences. I sincerely believe that counseling gives an individual the opportunity to experience significant growth and healing through a greater personal awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.
(815) 981-3239 View (815) 981-3239
Photo of Nicole Patterson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I specialize in working with various ages ranging from children, teenagers, and adults. Services include individual, family, and couples' therapy. I am able to help clients that are struggling with relationships/marriages, pre-marital issues, infidelity, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Facing these challenges are never easy, but with the proper help and support, positive change can be made, which is what I strive to help achieve.
I specialize in working with various ages ranging from children, teenagers, and adults. Services include individual, family, and couples' therapy. I am able to help clients that are struggling with relationships/marriages, pre-marital issues, infidelity, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Facing these challenges are never easy, but with the proper help and support, positive change can be made, which is what I strive to help achieve.
(815) 240-8423 View (815) 240-8423

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Claire Maschinski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claire Maschinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sycamore, IL 60178
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
(779) 222-2708 View (779) 222-2708

Online Therapists

Photo of Theodore E Stripling, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Theodore E Stripling
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60651
Waitlist for new clients
I have a Gestalt-based approach, often using creative techniques (like drawing, lists, or role playing).
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), working in private practice over the last year. I have 10 years working with in a school setting. I work with adults, and specialize with children and adolescents. I aim to help clients explore themselves and how they relate to their environment, being work, home, or social areas. My role is to help you explore core aspects of yourself and how to get what you need from your world.
I have a Gestalt-based approach, often using creative techniques (like drawing, lists, or role playing).
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), working in private practice over the last year. I have 10 years working with in a school setting. I work with adults, and specialize with children and adolescents. I aim to help clients explore themselves and how they relate to their environment, being work, home, or social areas. My role is to help you explore core aspects of yourself and how to get what you need from your world.
(773) 207-8856 View (773) 207-8856
Photo of Nataliia Maslovska, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Nataliia Maslovska
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
In my practice, I utilize EMDR, CBT, REBT, Adlerian approaches, elements of Gestalt, psychodynamic approaches, mindfulness, meditation, motivational interviewing, and coaching.
Therapy is a journey of self-discovery and growth. Together, we will explore the roots of your challenges, identify patterns, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. I aim to help you build resilience, enhance self-awareness, and create meaningful change. My areas of expertise include anxieties/phobias, low self-esteem/depression, conflict and anger management, grief and trauma, work on overcoming limited beliefs and achieving future goals.
In my practice, I utilize EMDR, CBT, REBT, Adlerian approaches, elements of Gestalt, psychodynamic approaches, mindfulness, meditation, motivational interviewing, and coaching.
Therapy is a journey of self-discovery and growth. Together, we will explore the roots of your challenges, identify patterns, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles. I aim to help you build resilience, enhance self-awareness, and create meaningful change. My areas of expertise include anxieties/phobias, low self-esteem/depression, conflict and anger management, grief and trauma, work on overcoming limited beliefs and achieving future goals.
(630) 332-8517 View (630) 332-8517
Photo of Polly M Vaughn - Institute for Social and Emotional Learning, EdD, CADC, LCPC, Counselor
Institute for Social and Emotional Learning
Counselor, EdD, CADC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bourbonnais, IL 60914  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work with all ages. I work with men, women, children and adolescents. My work is based on Gestalt Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy. My interest includes helping others achieve their dreams through learning to develop their Social and Emotional Intelligence. Sometimes, in life obstacles get in the way of a person being able to achieve their dreams and they often need help learning to better use their emotions and their social environments. Because, dreams comes from change and change comes from dreams.
(815) 768-3134 View (815) 768-3134
Photo of Elizabeth Fotopoulos - Elizabeth Fotopoulos LLC, PhD, LCPC, ATR-BC, ATCS, Counselor
Elizabeth Fotopoulos LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, ATR-BC, ATCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
My practice is based on​ an Adlerian perspective, yet I incorporate mindfulness and relaxation, Adlerian, Gestalt, and motivational interviewing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist. I have 10 years of professional experience in providing individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. My experience is in out-patient services working with depressive and mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, parenting, and life transitions.
My practice is based on​ an Adlerian perspective, yet I incorporate mindfulness and relaxation, Adlerian, Gestalt, and motivational interviewing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist. I have 10 years of professional experience in providing individual and family therapy services to children, adolescents, and adults. My experience is in out-patient services working with depressive and mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem, parenting, and life transitions.
(847) 813-7481 View (847) 813-7481
Photo of Novella Blackmon, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Novella Blackmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I utilize an eclectic style of techniques, combining CBT and Gestalt to create a personalized toolkit with you.
Hi there! Are you struggling with a silent war of anxiety, depression, & PTSD? Are you unsure on how to build your self-esteem? Life has just been life-ing & you feel like you're at a standstill? Lets work together to find the root of it all and work past it. I have a strong love for implementing mindfulness techniques, a focus on self-love, journaling, and a focus on the mind-body connection, adding a holistic approach to my psychodynamic technique for a little razzle dazzle.
I utilize an eclectic style of techniques, combining CBT and Gestalt to create a personalized toolkit with you.
Hi there! Are you struggling with a silent war of anxiety, depression, & PTSD? Are you unsure on how to build your self-esteem? Life has just been life-ing & you feel like you're at a standstill? Lets work together to find the root of it all and work past it. I have a strong love for implementing mindfulness techniques, a focus on self-love, journaling, and a focus on the mind-body connection, adding a holistic approach to my psychodynamic technique for a little razzle dazzle.
(630) 473-9783 x1 View (630) 473-9783 x1
Photo of Agnes Starr, Pre-Licensed Professional
Agnes Starr
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
Drawing from Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Gestalt Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Somatic approaches I help uncover blockages that hold clients back and facilitate healing.
Each path to healing is unique. My relational approach to therapy is collaborative and guided by compassion, understanding, and meaning. It takes courage and resilience to process difficult emotions, sit with grief and painful experiences, or face confusion. My priority in session is to offer a supportive and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their experience safely while finding a meaningful way forward. Drawing from a holistic blend of approaches I help clients discover their own strength, clarity, and wisdom so they can feel empowered to build lives that are more peaceful, joyful, and fulfilling.
Drawing from Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Gestalt Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Somatic approaches I help uncover blockages that hold clients back and facilitate healing.
Each path to healing is unique. My relational approach to therapy is collaborative and guided by compassion, understanding, and meaning. It takes courage and resilience to process difficult emotions, sit with grief and painful experiences, or face confusion. My priority in session is to offer a supportive and non-judgmental space for clients to explore their experience safely while finding a meaningful way forward. Drawing from a holistic blend of approaches I help clients discover their own strength, clarity, and wisdom so they can feel empowered to build lives that are more peaceful, joyful, and fulfilling.
(312) 880-9321 View (312) 880-9321
Photo of Lauren Michelle Jackson, LCPC, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Michelle Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
She uses an integrative approach, encompassing Existential Theory with Gestalt techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychoanalytic techniques.
To LIVE after Trauma and Grief was the smartest choice I've made Learning to LOVE as a Parent and Single Woman, feels freeing Having LIFE with Relational Purpose is a class all Its own After 35 years of life experience, 7 years of experience in field of mental health, 4 years as a Licensed Therapist, and continuing education as a 5th year doctoral student I have been able to create a program that eases the stigma of seeing a therapist. Through the recognition of new self-awareness, clients will work towards their goals through her directive and active guidance.
She uses an integrative approach, encompassing Existential Theory with Gestalt techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Psychoanalytic techniques.
To LIVE after Trauma and Grief was the smartest choice I've made Learning to LOVE as a Parent and Single Woman, feels freeing Having LIFE with Relational Purpose is a class all Its own After 35 years of life experience, 7 years of experience in field of mental health, 4 years as a Licensed Therapist, and continuing education as a 5th year doctoral student I have been able to create a program that eases the stigma of seeing a therapist. Through the recognition of new self-awareness, clients will work towards their goals through her directive and active guidance.
(312) 386-5314 View (312) 386-5314
Photo of Jeanette Mazeikis, LCPC
Jeanette Mazeikis
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Hello! I’m a licensed counselor with over 7 years of experience. I commonly treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, intrusive thoughts, anger problems, codependency/personal boundary issues, and interpersonal distress. I use a mix of Dialectical (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Attachment-based, Person-Centered, and Gestalt approaches. I am particularly interested in parent-child relationships and hope to help parents improve family functioning and satisfaction through parent-coaching. I strive to meet my clients where they are at in their journey towards healing and self-improvement.
Hello! I’m a licensed counselor with over 7 years of experience. I commonly treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, intrusive thoughts, anger problems, codependency/personal boundary issues, and interpersonal distress. I use a mix of Dialectical (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment (ACT), Attachment-based, Person-Centered, and Gestalt approaches. I am particularly interested in parent-child relationships and hope to help parents improve family functioning and satisfaction through parent-coaching. I strive to meet my clients where they are at in their journey towards healing and self-improvement.
(872) 244-6807 View (872) 244-6807
Photo of Cindy Recinos, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cindy Recinos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I’m trained in various treatment modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt, the Gottman Method, Attachment Theory, and Acceptance and Commitment.
I'm a multicultural, LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive therapist. I have worked with clients to address issues of desire discrepancy, lack of emotional and physical intimacy, difficulties with orgasm, erectile dysfunction, anxiety, mood dysregulation, substance use disorder, chronic pain, somatic symptoms, and trauma-related disorders.
I’m trained in various treatment modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gestalt, the Gottman Method, Attachment Theory, and Acceptance and Commitment.
I'm a multicultural, LGBTQIA+ affirming, sex-positive therapist. I have worked with clients to address issues of desire discrepancy, lack of emotional and physical intimacy, difficulties with orgasm, erectile dysfunction, anxiety, mood dysregulation, substance use disorder, chronic pain, somatic symptoms, and trauma-related disorders.
(773) 906-4051 View (773) 906-4051
Photo of Marchante' Allen, MA, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marchante' Allen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
My theoretical orientation is rooted in person-centered and positive psychology, drawing heavily from solution focused/solution-brief focused, with inclusions from "CBT & ACT," and select techniques from Gestalt.
Beliefs, values and expectations are core aspects of our being. At some point, in most individuals lives, these aspects can be challenged by difficult decisions, situations and hardships. Therefore, an individual's personality and self-awareness are Key elements as it pertains to areas that can benefit from growth and healing. The field of counseling is a great way to offer knowledge, guidance, acceptance, support and another perspective surrounding these issues. We all go through difficult periods in life. My position is to help you become your most optimal self within these areas by helping to facilitate a healthy desired change.
My theoretical orientation is rooted in person-centered and positive psychology, drawing heavily from solution focused/solution-brief focused, with inclusions from "CBT & ACT," and select techniques from Gestalt.
Beliefs, values and expectations are core aspects of our being. At some point, in most individuals lives, these aspects can be challenged by difficult decisions, situations and hardships. Therefore, an individual's personality and self-awareness are Key elements as it pertains to areas that can benefit from growth and healing. The field of counseling is a great way to offer knowledge, guidance, acceptance, support and another perspective surrounding these issues. We all go through difficult periods in life. My position is to help you become your most optimal self within these areas by helping to facilitate a healthy desired change.
(773) 305-6253 View (773) 305-6253
Photo of Ellie Paul, MA, NCC, MLD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ellie Paul
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, MLD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I use CBT, Gottman Techniques, & Gestalt, along with my trademark humor & empathy.
I am passionate about working with children & adolescents managing anxiety & depression; adults who are stressed or who have experienced trauma; OCD and ERP; and working with individuals or those involved in improving their relationships (couples or polycule therapy). I am proud to be an affirming clinician, supporting clients who identify as LGBTQIA+ & those from marginalized backgrounds. Working closely with parents as individuals or as part of a family system is also a specialty of mine. I understand the stress, pressure, love, & energy ever-present in parenting, & strive to help folx find methods, support, & balance.
I use CBT, Gottman Techniques, & Gestalt, along with my trademark humor & empathy.
I am passionate about working with children & adolescents managing anxiety & depression; adults who are stressed or who have experienced trauma; OCD and ERP; and working with individuals or those involved in improving their relationships (couples or polycule therapy). I am proud to be an affirming clinician, supporting clients who identify as LGBTQIA+ & those from marginalized backgrounds. Working closely with parents as individuals or as part of a family system is also a specialty of mine. I understand the stress, pressure, love, & energy ever-present in parenting, & strive to help folx find methods, support, & balance.
(872) 274-2134 View (872) 274-2134
Photo of Karen Hammond, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, IL 60175
I offer traditional talk therapy as well as experiential therapy including EMDR, Gestalt, sandtray and other modalities.
Are you living with Post Traumatic Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Or, some other mental health issue? Welcome! I have a passion for bringing healing and improving an individual's ability to fully embrace life. My goal is to meet each client where they currently are on their journey, with no judgement, using customized treatment while providing guidance to help clients find relief from the challenges they are experiencing. I look forward to working alongside you as you experience enhancement in your quality of life.
I offer traditional talk therapy as well as experiential therapy including EMDR, Gestalt, sandtray and other modalities.
Are you living with Post Traumatic Stress? Anxiety? Depression? Or, some other mental health issue? Welcome! I have a passion for bringing healing and improving an individual's ability to fully embrace life. My goal is to meet each client where they currently are on their journey, with no judgement, using customized treatment while providing guidance to help clients find relief from the challenges they are experiencing. I look forward to working alongside you as you experience enhancement in your quality of life.
(630) 381-5392 View (630) 381-5392
Photo of Sunshine Ballentine, BS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sunshine Ballentine
Licensed Professional Counselor, BS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Elmhurst, IL 60126  (Online Only)
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic methodologies such as Cognitive Behavioral, Person-Centered, Gestalt, Adlerian, Existentialism, Psychotherapy, and Superhero Therapy among other counseling methodologies.
I view the counseling relationship as a partnership between the counselor and client. After getting to know you as an individual, we will work together to help you deal with emotional trauma, patterns in relationships, and other things in the past that are impacting your future. Improving communication, coping skills, strengthening self-esteem, and promoting behavioral change will help you feel better about yourself, your relationships, and your life. I offer virtual and evening appointments to accommodate your busy schedule. I provide a holistic, nonjudgemental, and inclusive environment to aid in your therapeutic experience.
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic methodologies such as Cognitive Behavioral, Person-Centered, Gestalt, Adlerian, Existentialism, Psychotherapy, and Superhero Therapy among other counseling methodologies.
I view the counseling relationship as a partnership between the counselor and client. After getting to know you as an individual, we will work together to help you deal with emotional trauma, patterns in relationships, and other things in the past that are impacting your future. Improving communication, coping skills, strengthening self-esteem, and promoting behavioral change will help you feel better about yourself, your relationships, and your life. I offer virtual and evening appointments to accommodate your busy schedule. I provide a holistic, nonjudgemental, and inclusive environment to aid in your therapeutic experience.
(630) 415-2764 View (630) 415-2764
Photo of Samantha Darlene Parris, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Darlene Parris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Therapist LPC Specialty: child/adolescent, couples, family, dual diagnosis Degree: Clinical Counseling with a special concentration in addiction Experience since 2020 specialties/training: CBT ,DBT, Addictions, First responders, Gestalt, Brief Solution Focused Therapy.
Meet Samantha, the licensed professional counselor with a twist of humor! She's not your average therapist; she's got a Master's in counseling and a Specialization in Addiction Services from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. They say laughter is the best medicine, but she's got more than just jokes up her sleeve. Samantha is the therapist with a zesty energy and a human empathy machine, cranking out exceptional understanding for the folks she serves. But it's not all serious business. Her real joy comes from helping clients grow while secretly nurturing their talents for making their own choices. Samantha's extensive
Therapist LPC Specialty: child/adolescent, couples, family, dual diagnosis Degree: Clinical Counseling with a special concentration in addiction Experience since 2020 specialties/training: CBT ,DBT, Addictions, First responders, Gestalt, Brief Solution Focused Therapy.
Meet Samantha, the licensed professional counselor with a twist of humor! She's not your average therapist; she's got a Master's in counseling and a Specialization in Addiction Services from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. They say laughter is the best medicine, but she's got more than just jokes up her sleeve. Samantha is the therapist with a zesty energy and a human empathy machine, cranking out exceptional understanding for the folks she serves. But it's not all serious business. Her real joy comes from helping clients grow while secretly nurturing their talents for making their own choices. Samantha's extensive
(847) 881-3737 View (847) 881-3737
Photo of Marina Borrero Bobadilla, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marina Borrero Bobadilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
Marina Borrero Bobadilla is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2023. She has a BA in Applied Behavioral Science and an MSED in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. When life is chaotic, Marina offers a soft place to land that is warm and welcoming. Through a person-centered lens, Marina utilizes various techniques and has found an alignment with Gestalt Theory. This theory views the human mind and behavior as a whole. Having this holistic approach allows the space to make connections to the complex layers of ourselves by processing the here and now.
Marina Borrero Bobadilla is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been practicing since 2023. She has a BA in Applied Behavioral Science and an MSED in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. When life is chaotic, Marina offers a soft place to land that is warm and welcoming. Through a person-centered lens, Marina utilizes various techniques and has found an alignment with Gestalt Theory. This theory views the human mind and behavior as a whole. Having this holistic approach allows the space to make connections to the complex layers of ourselves by processing the here and now.
(847) 238-9867 View (847) 238-9867
Photo of Lisa Marie Petrongelli - Lisa Marie Petrongelli, PsyD, MSN, APRN-BC, C-AAIS, PsyD, MSN, APRN-BC, FPA, C-AAIS
Lisa Marie Petrongelli, PsyD, MSN, APRN-BC, C-AAIS
PsyD, MSN, APRN-BC, FPA, C-AAIS
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
Depending on my assessments, I utilize a variety of therapeutic orientations including CBT, DBT, Humanistic, Client-Centered, Gestalt, Somatic Experiencing, and Group-based therapies.
As a Clinical Psychologist and Family Nurse Practitioner, I offer an integrative approach to treating women. My private practice, Health and Therapy for Women, serves clients looking for comprehensive care, addressing medical and mental health issues. My practice focus includes: coping with medical/chronic illness, individual/group psychotherapies, grief/loss support, animal-assisted therapies, and opioid use disorder treatment. Psychotropic medications are added to a treatment plan after non-pharmacological alternatives have been applied and the client continues to have emotional distress interfering with levels of functioning.
Depending on my assessments, I utilize a variety of therapeutic orientations including CBT, DBT, Humanistic, Client-Centered, Gestalt, Somatic Experiencing, and Group-based therapies.
As a Clinical Psychologist and Family Nurse Practitioner, I offer an integrative approach to treating women. My private practice, Health and Therapy for Women, serves clients looking for comprehensive care, addressing medical and mental health issues. My practice focus includes: coping with medical/chronic illness, individual/group psychotherapies, grief/loss support, animal-assisted therapies, and opioid use disorder treatment. Psychotropic medications are added to a treatment plan after non-pharmacological alternatives have been applied and the client continues to have emotional distress interfering with levels of functioning.
(847) 242-2358 View (847) 242-2358
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.