Gestalt Therapists in Lake Forest, IL

Photo of Alisa J Courtney, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Alisa J Courtney
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I work with individuals,adults and couples. I see each person as a unique individual with strengths and challenges. It is my goal to create a feeling of safety and compassion. It can take courage to enter into therapy and I work with each person in a way that respects their pace, accesses their inner resources, and supports and guides them as new insights and behaviors are evolving. I also use Hypnotherapy and am certified through the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Hypnosis can enhance change, help with anxiety, depression, pain, and increase relaxation as well as other issues.
I work with individuals,adults and couples. I see each person as a unique individual with strengths and challenges. It is my goal to create a feeling of safety and compassion. It can take courage to enter into therapy and I work with each person in a way that respects their pace, accesses their inner resources, and supports and guides them as new insights and behaviors are evolving. I also use Hypnotherapy and am certified through the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Hypnosis can enhance change, help with anxiety, depression, pain, and increase relaxation as well as other issues.
(847) 512-8987 View (847) 512-8987
Photo of Spencer P Carrol, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Spencer P Carrol
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I specialize in providing therapy for people aged 4-25 in Lake Forest and the northern Chicago suburbs, especially neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals. With a background including biology and education, I bring a deep understanding of brain function and learning processes to my practice. My approach blends multiple different types of therapy to help clients navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and the complexities of growing up today. My sessions frequently include games like Dungeons and Dragons and video games as a means to build rapport, practice skills/tools, and understand oneself.
I specialize in providing therapy for people aged 4-25 in Lake Forest and the northern Chicago suburbs, especially neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ individuals. With a background including biology and education, I bring a deep understanding of brain function and learning processes to my practice. My approach blends multiple different types of therapy to help clients navigate anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, and the complexities of growing up today. My sessions frequently include games like Dungeons and Dragons and video games as a means to build rapport, practice skills/tools, and understand oneself.
(224) 328-2327 View (224) 328-2327
Photo of Elizabeth Case, LPCC, EdM, MA, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Elizabeth Case
Counselor, LPCC, EdM, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
You are a woman with tremendous strength. You manage the lives of others and keep track of so much. And though there can be moments of great reward, you are tired and notice that in caring for others, some of the most important parts of YOU feel lost. You may not feel as confident or positive as you once did. You may notice that relationships are strained. Work is suffering. You feel stressed, distracted, exhausted. It is time to access resources to help lift you back onto your feet so that you can reconnect with yourself and others.
You are a woman with tremendous strength. You manage the lives of others and keep track of so much. And though there can be moments of great reward, you are tired and notice that in caring for others, some of the most important parts of YOU feel lost. You may not feel as confident or positive as you once did. You may notice that relationships are strained. Work is suffering. You feel stressed, distracted, exhausted. It is time to access resources to help lift you back onto your feet so that you can reconnect with yourself and others.
(650) 613-4868 View (650) 613-4868
Photo of Justin William Schloer - Changing Phases, LCPC, Counselor
Changing Phases
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
My outlook on life is that we are all on a journey. Some people move faster than others. Some need a helping hand along the way; but we can all arrive to where we are going, where we want to be…every single one of us. I am here to help motivate when you lack motivation. I am here to listen when you feel unheard. I am here to push when you feel weak, or pull when you don’t feel strong enough. I’m also here to sit with you when you aren’t ready or feel unable to make a decision. I am here at your pace.
(224) 218-5276 View (224) 218-5276
Photo of Wendy L McCarty, LMFT, CHT, MA-SP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy L McCarty
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CHT, MA-SP
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I use a combination of Marriage and Family therapy, Hypnotherapy and Spiritual psychology to understand and heal faulty negative self conclusions from the past. Once we understand,( sometimes through buried memories,) that our value as human beings cannot be "unworthy, or "not good enough", we can repair mental, emotional and spiritual wounds from the past. My goal is for you to live in freedom and fulfillment from finding your passion in, and for life.
I use a combination of Marriage and Family therapy, Hypnotherapy and Spiritual psychology to understand and heal faulty negative self conclusions from the past. Once we understand,( sometimes through buried memories,) that our value as human beings cannot be "unworthy, or "not good enough", we can repair mental, emotional and spiritual wounds from the past. My goal is for you to live in freedom and fulfillment from finding your passion in, and for life.
(847) 457-0279 View (847) 457-0279
Photo of Drew M Mjoen, MA, MDiv, LCPC, Counselor
Drew M Mjoen
Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Forest, IL 60045
I have 30+ years of extensive experience providing guidance leading to marital, personal, and professional solutions and growth. I will quickly establish a comprehensive understanding of your current dilemma to lower your distress and achieve your desired results. You may be dealing with conflict in your marriage or you're carrying concerns about your parenting. You might find yourself stuck in sadness and worry or you're experiencing thoughts and perceptions that confuse and frighten you. Perhaps you are finding work very stressful or you're having difficulty moving forward and growing the way you believe you can.
I have 30+ years of extensive experience providing guidance leading to marital, personal, and professional solutions and growth. I will quickly establish a comprehensive understanding of your current dilemma to lower your distress and achieve your desired results. You may be dealing with conflict in your marriage or you're carrying concerns about your parenting. You might find yourself stuck in sadness and worry or you're experiencing thoughts and perceptions that confuse and frighten you. Perhaps you are finding work very stressful or you're having difficulty moving forward and growing the way you believe you can.
(847) 969-5939 View (847) 969-5939
Photo of Lisa Dvorak, MBA, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Dvorak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lake Forest, IL 60045
Do you long to have more fulfilling relationships? Is pain from your past or worry about the future stealing your joy to live in the present? I am here for you during difficult seasons and hold a safe space for healing and growth.
Do you long to have more fulfilling relationships? Is pain from your past or worry about the future stealing your joy to live in the present? I am here for you during difficult seasons and hold a safe space for healing and growth.
(847) 649-6389 View (847) 649-6389

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukegan, IL 60085  (Online Only)
I offer an approach influenced by person-centered, conversational style, drawing upon gestalt, CBT, mindfulness, and childhood trauma work.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
I offer an approach influenced by person-centered, conversational style, drawing upon gestalt, CBT, mindfulness, and childhood trauma work.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
(773) 915-0573 View (773) 915-0573
Photo of Jennifer Daniels, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Jennifer Daniels
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Therefore, my approach includes components of different modalities, such as Eye Movement Desenitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Gestalt, Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Making the decision to ask for help can be difficult. The truth is, seeking guided support is a sign of strength. From time to time, we all need a little help to realize our own potential. Using a combination of therapy, meditation, mindfulness techniques and healthy lifestyle changes, together we can break old negative cycles and resolve current troublesome issues. No matter your age, whether you seek individual, couples, family or group therapy, it is my job to empower and encourage you to walk safely through the maze of human life. You are not alone.
Therefore, my approach includes components of different modalities, such as Eye Movement Desenitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Gestalt, Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness.
Making the decision to ask for help can be difficult. The truth is, seeking guided support is a sign of strength. From time to time, we all need a little help to realize our own potential. Using a combination of therapy, meditation, mindfulness techniques and healthy lifestyle changes, together we can break old negative cycles and resolve current troublesome issues. No matter your age, whether you seek individual, couples, family or group therapy, it is my job to empower and encourage you to walk safely through the maze of human life. You are not alone.
(847) 752-9350 View (847) 752-9350
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 Dr. Glenisha L. C. Foreman, PhD, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, CAMS-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Glenisha L. C. Foreman
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC, CCTP, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Chicago, IL 60064
Dr. Glenisha Foreman is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Marine Corp Veteran. Serving in the military enabled her to travel to various places around the world. During her travels, Glenisha learned from, interacted, and worked with people of various cultures and ethnicities. She continues to be open and interested in learning about what is unique to you. She has experience working in mental health, as well as substance abuse. She is passionate about working with Veterans, adolescents and adults. Life gets tough sometimes and as much as some people would like to handle it themselves know that its ok to ask for help.
Dr. Glenisha Foreman is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Marine Corp Veteran. Serving in the military enabled her to travel to various places around the world. During her travels, Glenisha learned from, interacted, and worked with people of various cultures and ethnicities. She continues to be open and interested in learning about what is unique to you. She has experience working in mental health, as well as substance abuse. She is passionate about working with Veterans, adolescents and adults. Life gets tough sometimes and as much as some people would like to handle it themselves know that its ok to ask for help.
(224) 207-4645 View (224) 207-4645
Photo of Susan Weitzman, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Weitzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
I am a psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience working with adults, couples and families. I also offer litigation consultation and expert witness work for difficult divorces. I am proud to have one of the longest running Women's Groups in the Chicagoland area. I believe that developing rapport and trust is essential in therapy. To this end, I provide a safe and respectful environment so that clients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns, fears and hopes for their future. I will help you regain the courage to face your issues and provide the necessary therapeutic tools to make positive, lasting changes in your life.
I am a psychotherapist with over 30 years of experience working with adults, couples and families. I also offer litigation consultation and expert witness work for difficult divorces. I am proud to have one of the longest running Women's Groups in the Chicagoland area. I believe that developing rapport and trust is essential in therapy. To this end, I provide a safe and respectful environment so that clients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns, fears and hopes for their future. I will help you regain the courage to face your issues and provide the necessary therapeutic tools to make positive, lasting changes in your life.
(312) 789-5415 View (312) 789-5415
Photo of Kyle McGuinness, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kyle McGuinness
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Glenview, IL 60025
My integrative therapeutic approach emphasizes empathic receptiveness and mindful observance. I strive to create a safe and productive environment with patients generating a strong therapeutic alliance. My goal is to utilize my patient’s strengths and weaknesses to assist them in generating a healthy well-being and reaching the identified therapeutic goals and expectations. I exercise a variety of perspectives through which patients will gain mindfulness, the ability to empower oneself and self-acceptance in their identity. Emphasis is given to maintaining changes so they exist long term.
My integrative therapeutic approach emphasizes empathic receptiveness and mindful observance. I strive to create a safe and productive environment with patients generating a strong therapeutic alliance. My goal is to utilize my patient’s strengths and weaknesses to assist them in generating a healthy well-being and reaching the identified therapeutic goals and expectations. I exercise a variety of perspectives through which patients will gain mindfulness, the ability to empower oneself and self-acceptance in their identity. Emphasis is given to maintaining changes so they exist long term.
(224) 249-5896 View (224) 249-5896
Photo of Gabriel Tijerina, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabriel Tijerina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Maybe you notice that things feel off. Like, you are always waiting for something to go wrong. Maybe you feel like you are undeserving of good things in life. I can assure you that this is not true, but you are going to have trouble believing this. With time, patience, and good therapy I assure you that this can change. I want to create an energetic and motivated therapy experience. With the help of tools like EMDR we can accelerate the process of therapy and help you get to the kind of life that you want.
Maybe you notice that things feel off. Like, you are always waiting for something to go wrong. Maybe you feel like you are undeserving of good things in life. I can assure you that this is not true, but you are going to have trouble believing this. With time, patience, and good therapy I assure you that this can change. I want to create an energetic and motivated therapy experience. With the help of tools like EMDR we can accelerate the process of therapy and help you get to the kind of life that you want.
(815) 604-8579 View (815) 604-8579
Photo of Celeste Ballard - Within Holistic Counseling, MA, LCPC, LMT, Counselor
Within Holistic Counseling
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gurnee, IL 60031
At Within Holistic Counseling, we believe in getting to the root of the problem. Traditional talk therapy has been proven highly effective, so we combine this with meditation based therapy and somatic psychology to make it even better. To create lasting change in your life, you need to understand where your feelings are coming from. We are clinically trained in psychological techniques as well as, having specialized training in mindfulness meditation and the ability to create a holistic framework that will assist you in getting to the root of your patterns to heal and change them. Your work will be tailored individually for you.
At Within Holistic Counseling, we believe in getting to the root of the problem. Traditional talk therapy has been proven highly effective, so we combine this with meditation based therapy and somatic psychology to make it even better. To create lasting change in your life, you need to understand where your feelings are coming from. We are clinically trained in psychological techniques as well as, having specialized training in mindfulness meditation and the ability to create a holistic framework that will assist you in getting to the root of your patterns to heal and change them. Your work will be tailored individually for you.
(815) 308-8859 View (815) 308-8859
Photo of Noah Gelfman, MEd, LCPC
Noah Gelfman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life and all of its moving parts? Are your emotions weighing you down and keeping you from reaching your full potential? I am here to be the support you need to make long lasting change. Together, we can make sense of your struggles and put the past to rest, so you can take charge over the rest of your life. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use related issues.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life and all of its moving parts? Are your emotions weighing you down and keeping you from reaching your full potential? I am here to be the support you need to make long lasting change. Together, we can make sense of your struggles and put the past to rest, so you can take charge over the rest of your life. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and substance use related issues.
(847) 416-8319 View (847) 416-8319
Photo of Cyndi Benner, MS, LCPC, NCC
Cyndi Benner
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Do you find yourself feeling flooded with uncomfortable feelings like fear, sadness or just plain numb? Are you overwhelmed with life's responsibilities or the heaviness in the world? Do you find it challenging to be kind to yourself? I am passionate about working with people who feel stuck, who have a loud inner critic, who struggle to regulate emotions. I want to help you make sense of your experiences, heal from past wounds and move forward with more freedom.
Do you find yourself feeling flooded with uncomfortable feelings like fear, sadness or just plain numb? Are you overwhelmed with life's responsibilities or the heaviness in the world? Do you find it challenging to be kind to yourself? I am passionate about working with people who feel stuck, who have a loud inner critic, who struggle to regulate emotions. I want to help you make sense of your experiences, heal from past wounds and move forward with more freedom.
(224) 412-5174 View (224) 412-5174
Photo of Fonda G. Lewis, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Fonda G. Lewis
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
I specialize in working with couples & individuals. My approach to therapy is tailored to meet the needs of each individual & help them recognize their full potential & possibilities. I enjoy working with couples, & find it gratifying when they overcome their difficulties & develop a connection of real love & intimacy. Many baby boomers are caring for their aging parents. I recognize the stress & anxiety this creates for the entire family, & the vital need for support & counseling to make this time with loved ones fulfilling & meaningful. My objective is that my clients are able to achieve personal growth & live their lives more successfully by learning to understand & accept themselves.
I specialize in working with couples & individuals. My approach to therapy is tailored to meet the needs of each individual & help them recognize their full potential & possibilities. I enjoy working with couples, & find it gratifying when they overcome their difficulties & develop a connection of real love & intimacy. Many baby boomers are caring for their aging parents. I recognize the stress & anxiety this creates for the entire family, & the vital need for support & counseling to make this time with loved ones fulfilling & meaningful. My objective is that my clients are able to achieve personal growth & live their lives more successfully by learning to understand & accept themselves.
(847) 235-6172 View (847) 235-6172
Photo of Deb Norton, MS, LCPC, NCC
Deb Norton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
Are you stuck, depressed, anxious, manic or drinking too much? Are you struggling with your marriage or relationship? I get it. As a Cognitive Behaviorist, I will help you look at things differently, challenge your thoughts and help you find a new perspective. I will be the support system that you need. I'm Clinically Licensed and Board Certified. And I have a plethora of experience (personally & professionally). For you, that translates into much better therapy outcomes! And, quite frankly, you deserve that! So give me a call. And check out my 5-star reviews at >www.healthgrades.com< Because choosing a therapist is a big deal!
Are you stuck, depressed, anxious, manic or drinking too much? Are you struggling with your marriage or relationship? I get it. As a Cognitive Behaviorist, I will help you look at things differently, challenge your thoughts and help you find a new perspective. I will be the support system that you need. I'm Clinically Licensed and Board Certified. And I have a plethora of experience (personally & professionally). For you, that translates into much better therapy outcomes! And, quite frankly, you deserve that! So give me a call. And check out my 5-star reviews at >www.healthgrades.com< Because choosing a therapist is a big deal!
(224) 406-1474 View (224) 406-1474
Photo of Melissa Mondschain, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa Mondschain
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062  (Online Only)
My professional services are dedicated to creating a safe space for individuals, couples and families to make changes in their lives. I bring a balance of open-hearted listening, practical counsel and a deep belief that each person holds clear and meaningful answers within themselves. In my counseling practice, I work collaboratively with you to access that inner wisdom in a respectful and focused manner. I aspire to help you create a life in which you and your loved ones can thrive.
My professional services are dedicated to creating a safe space for individuals, couples and families to make changes in their lives. I bring a balance of open-hearted listening, practical counsel and a deep belief that each person holds clear and meaningful answers within themselves. In my counseling practice, I work collaboratively with you to access that inner wisdom in a respectful and focused manner. I aspire to help you create a life in which you and your loved ones can thrive.
(847) 393-4223 View (847) 393-4223

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.