Gestalt Therapists in River Forest, IL
![Photo of Dr. Heidi D Schwartz, PsyD, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48790179-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Heidi D Schwartz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
I hold a Masters degree in Community Counseling from Kent State University, a specialty, 3-year certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, and a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. My clinical work centers around helping people develop satisfying relationships and lifestyles. We will work collaboratively to help you heal old wounds and make insightful meaning of your patterns of self-defeating thoughts and behaviors as they impact your current functioning and relationships. I will help you develop inner strength and creativity to remedy depression, anxiety, and unhappiness. Ultimately, you will ably make intentional choices about managing your life, goals, work, and relationships.
I hold a Masters degree in Community Counseling from Kent State University, a specialty, 3-year certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, and a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. My clinical work centers around helping people develop satisfying relationships and lifestyles. We will work collaboratively to help you heal old wounds and make insightful meaning of your patterns of self-defeating thoughts and behaviors as they impact your current functioning and relationships. I will help you develop inner strength and creativity to remedy depression, anxiety, and unhappiness. Ultimately, you will ably make intentional choices about managing your life, goals, work, and relationships.
![Photo of Heather L Corwin, PhD, MFA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0c219b8-1930-4045-8884-24eeb698c58e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Heather L Corwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MFA, LPC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Saturday available. Dr. Corwin’s diverse background and experiences inform her therapeutic approach, grounded in relationship & unconditional positive regard. Within a strength based, integrative approach to health and well being, Dr. Corwin includes sensory awareness & body connection to explore how impulses translate into our everyday actions. Populations of specialty include people who are seeking skills for anxiety & depression, trauma giving birth, and performers. She believes people are complex and that thoughts, feelings, and body sensations interact with each other and determine how we interface with the world around us.
Saturday available. Dr. Corwin’s diverse background and experiences inform her therapeutic approach, grounded in relationship & unconditional positive regard. Within a strength based, integrative approach to health and well being, Dr. Corwin includes sensory awareness & body connection to explore how impulses translate into our everyday actions. Populations of specialty include people who are seeking skills for anxiety & depression, trauma giving birth, and performers. She believes people are complex and that thoughts, feelings, and body sensations interact with each other and determine how we interface with the world around us.
![Photo of Susan L Adler, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaf743df-4bce-4939-9a51-0c82e028c7f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susan L Adler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Feeling stuck? A Chicago Social Worker of the Year (National Association of Social Workers). Published, award-winning author in the field. 25+ yrs experience. English, Spanish. AAMFT clinical member/supervisor. Respectful, skilled, organized, friendly, approachable. Model based approach. LGBTQIA. Goal based, non-pathologizing strength-based model. Highly recommended as humanistic, safe, therapist, trainer and consultant. Popular TEDx Talk: Secrets of a Couples Counselor: 3 steps to Happier Relationships available to watch on Youtube, through my website or google Susan Adler TEDx. www.susanLadler.com
Feeling stuck? A Chicago Social Worker of the Year (National Association of Social Workers). Published, award-winning author in the field. 25+ yrs experience. English, Spanish. AAMFT clinical member/supervisor. Respectful, skilled, organized, friendly, approachable. Model based approach. LGBTQIA. Goal based, non-pathologizing strength-based model. Highly recommended as humanistic, safe, therapist, trainer and consultant. Popular TEDx Talk: Secrets of a Couples Counselor: 3 steps to Happier Relationships available to watch on Youtube, through my website or google Susan Adler TEDx. www.susanLadler.com
![Photo of Rebecca L Davis - Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71b48529-0af1-4022-8a74-066b9dae0f0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
I am Norma Venable a Licensed Professional Counselor who has over 25 years of counseling experience and love helping others! My priority is to provide a therapeutic relationship in a safe, nonjudgmental, and confidential environment so you feel comfortable discussing your truth. My person-centered & integrative approach is customized to your specific needs. I utilize counseling from a positive, holistic, strength-based perspective of hope and growth through self-awareness and insights. I believe each of us is a unique individual with several differences that make us who we are so only we know the best solutions for ourselves.
I am Norma Venable a Licensed Professional Counselor who has over 25 years of counseling experience and love helping others! My priority is to provide a therapeutic relationship in a safe, nonjudgmental, and confidential environment so you feel comfortable discussing your truth. My person-centered & integrative approach is customized to your specific needs. I utilize counseling from a positive, holistic, strength-based perspective of hope and growth through self-awareness and insights. I believe each of us is a unique individual with several differences that make us who we are so only we know the best solutions for ourselves.
![Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners Pllc - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58179b92-dc3e-4f6e-87f4-52539ecd9b06/2/320x400.jpeg)
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
![Photo of Suzanne M. Walsh, JD, AM, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/321eedf0-8586-4962-8313-f69345dcf754/1/320x400.jpeg)
Suzanne M. Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
River Forest, IL 60305
Not accepting new clients
I use an integrative approach to therapy with adult clients to help them explore and address sources of distress in their lives.
I use an integrative approach to therapy with adult clients to help them explore and address sources of distress in their lives.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Elizabeth Fotopoulos - Elizabeth Fotopoulos LLC, PhD, LCPC, ATR-BC, ATCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4089b3d8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Marilyn Joanne Myles, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401d5a91-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I bring 25 years of experience in using the effective and compassionate approaches of EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt and Hakomi Somatics to heal trauma, grief, stresses of illness, depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties. I see my work as helping you bring clarity out of confusion by understanding the dynamic issues that hold you back and thus influence your future planning. This often results in reclaiming parts of yourself in order to come into your inherent wholeness. I adapt a unique blend of body/mind approaches to your specific needs, at a pace that's comfortable for you.
I bring 25 years of experience in using the effective and compassionate approaches of EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt and Hakomi Somatics to heal trauma, grief, stresses of illness, depression, anxiety and relationship difficulties. I see my work as helping you bring clarity out of confusion by understanding the dynamic issues that hold you back and thus influence your future planning. This often results in reclaiming parts of yourself in order to come into your inherent wholeness. I adapt a unique blend of body/mind approaches to your specific needs, at a pace that's comfortable for you.
![Photo of Barbara Friedman, PhD, LICDC, ICADC, yoga, allia, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fd21ca6-97a0-405a-b855-57c03cf6a45c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist, a Jungian psychoanalyst and a certified addictions counselor. I also have training in recovery work, Gestalt therapy and am a certified yoga instructor. I use these perspectives appropriately for the unique benefit of the client who sits in front of me. I try to meet each person with freshness each session. I advocate for change in the power dynamic between people and within the psyche and support my clients to become their most authentic and fullest self.
I am a licensed psychologist, a Jungian psychoanalyst and a certified addictions counselor. I also have training in recovery work, Gestalt therapy and am a certified yoga instructor. I use these perspectives appropriately for the unique benefit of the client who sits in front of me. I try to meet each person with freshness each session. I advocate for change in the power dynamic between people and within the psyche and support my clients to become their most authentic and fullest self.
![Photo of Sandra Angelie Stevens, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37797dcd-d806-4bc7-b097-14e3ab03dcb5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and couples in a person-centered approach and have training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. I also have a fine arts, music, dance, and psychodrama background. I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals. I have experience working with range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, extramarital affairs, relationship challenges, premarital, men's issues, and life adjustments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults and couples in a person-centered approach and have training in emotionally-focused therapy, attachment theory, EMDR, and psychodrama. I also have a fine arts, music, dance, and psychodrama background. I utilize an eclectic approach to accommodate what works best for each individual, seeking to foster a safe, comfortable environment to help each client fulfill their treatment goals. I have experience working with range of issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, divorce, extramarital affairs, relationship challenges, premarital, men's issues, and life adjustments.
![Photo of Christine Steyn - Steyn Integrative Counseling, IFS, Somatic, SSP, EMDR, Yoga, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3173104-9a61-4926-a81d-3c915a61258b/2/320x400.png)
Steyn Integrative Counseling
Counselor, IFS, Somatic, SSP, EMDR, Yoga
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60304
Every client matters and deserves a great experience. Our team values healing the root of your discomfort so you can finally stop managing symptoms. We provide an evidence-based, holistic approach through clinical therapists and our nervous system regulation specialist tailored to your individual needs. We collaborate with local functional doctors and truly psychiatrists when helpful.
Every client matters and deserves a great experience. Our team values healing the root of your discomfort so you can finally stop managing symptoms. We provide an evidence-based, holistic approach through clinical therapists and our nervous system regulation specialist tailored to your individual needs. We collaborate with local functional doctors and truly psychiatrists when helpful.
![Photo of Tamara Denton, EdD, LCPC, CADC, CAMS, SAP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/429f8d82-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tamara Denton
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, CADC, CAMS, SAP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Maywood, IL 60153
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Anger Management Specialist and Qualified Substance Abuse Professional.
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Anger Management Specialist and Qualified Substance Abuse Professional.
![Photo of Mia Dal Santo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebcdb5be-f2b9-4111-9d4a-da249d62a121/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mia Dal Santo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301 (Online Only)
Are you feeling like it’s hard to authentically be yourself or connect with others? As a relational therapist, I recognize that our connections are the basis of both the greatest struggles and the greatest rewards we can know as humans. I specialize in work with couples, families, and individuals who have "non-traditional" relationships and sexualities. My work with clients is open and collaborative, often using narrative therapy, attachment theory, and systems theory to help people flesh out their sense of identity and strengths. You can expect transparency, a culturally-attuned lens, and a little humor in therapy with me.
Are you feeling like it’s hard to authentically be yourself or connect with others? As a relational therapist, I recognize that our connections are the basis of both the greatest struggles and the greatest rewards we can know as humans. I specialize in work with couples, families, and individuals who have "non-traditional" relationships and sexualities. My work with clients is open and collaborative, often using narrative therapy, attachment theory, and systems theory to help people flesh out their sense of identity and strengths. You can expect transparency, a culturally-attuned lens, and a little humor in therapy with me.
![Photo of Luz Maria Miranda, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2a123db-8440-4c57-b4f6-d613c24b6efa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Luz Maria Miranda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60707 (Online Only)
My name is Luz (she/they)! I understand that therapy can be scary! It’s not easy opening up to a stranger, but I want you to know I will meet you where you are. I believe in treating my clients with softness and aim to build trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship through empathy and patience. In our capitalist society, it is easy for us to go on autopilot and simply work, work, work. That is completely valid since we need to work to survive. However, slowing down and being mindful of our breath, what we feel in our bodies, and simply listening to our heartbeats reconnects us to not only ourselves, but the Earth.
My name is Luz (she/they)! I understand that therapy can be scary! It’s not easy opening up to a stranger, but I want you to know I will meet you where you are. I believe in treating my clients with softness and aim to build trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship through empathy and patience. In our capitalist society, it is easy for us to go on autopilot and simply work, work, work. That is completely valid since we need to work to survive. However, slowing down and being mindful of our breath, what we feel in our bodies, and simply listening to our heartbeats reconnects us to not only ourselves, but the Earth.
![Photo of Lilia Laluna, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b60f3aa-d2bb-460b-9764-f11677ce545f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychotherapist with ten years of experience. My approach integrates client-centered therapy interventions, mindfulness, and body-oriented therapy techniques. I like to hold a respectful, compassionate, safe space, free of judgment that allows an individual their personal growth and supports their healing processes. I focus on working with clients that have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transition difficulties, relationship issues, satisfaction, meaning and purpose of life, trauma, grief, and loss.
I am a psychotherapist with ten years of experience. My approach integrates client-centered therapy interventions, mindfulness, and body-oriented therapy techniques. I like to hold a respectful, compassionate, safe space, free of judgment that allows an individual their personal growth and supports their healing processes. I focus on working with clients that have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life transition difficulties, relationship issues, satisfaction, meaning and purpose of life, trauma, grief, and loss.
![Photo of Savannah Williams, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a454c2e-20b9-425e-af6a-72343354ed1b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi! I am Savannah Williams, a clinically licensed therapist (LCPC). I work primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults. My experience is in crisis work, partial and intensive hospitalization, and private practice. I often use acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to help you identify and target negative thinking patterns and behaviors you want to change. Understanding our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions can completely change our day-to-day experience.
Hi! I am Savannah Williams, a clinically licensed therapist (LCPC). I work primarily with children, adolescents, and young adults. My experience is in crisis work, partial and intensive hospitalization, and private practice. I often use acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) to help you identify and target negative thinking patterns and behaviors you want to change. Understanding our thoughts, behaviors, and emotions can completely change our day-to-day experience.
![Photo of Emem Itiat, MA, LCPC, NCC, QMHP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb6d980c-ea07-4a9f-959c-03293bd42977/2/320x400.png)
Emem Itiat
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60304 (Online Only)
Navigating life's set backs, challenges, and adversities can absolutely take a toll on our wellbeing and ability to function, which is why it is important to know that you do not have to work through these concerns alone. I believe in the power of healing through promoting self-awareness, autonomy and empowerment, and also in people's strength to move towards change. Though suffering is a part of life, something that all humans share, working to manifest helpful and sustainable coping mechanisms, and skills that will work to serve you long term makes a difference in the quality of life a person experiences.
Navigating life's set backs, challenges, and adversities can absolutely take a toll on our wellbeing and ability to function, which is why it is important to know that you do not have to work through these concerns alone. I believe in the power of healing through promoting self-awareness, autonomy and empowerment, and also in people's strength to move towards change. Though suffering is a part of life, something that all humans share, working to manifest helpful and sustainable coping mechanisms, and skills that will work to serve you long term makes a difference in the quality of life a person experiences.
![Photo of Carli Cinquegrani, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4450dbe8-7ce9-4615-bdc1-eeab44df2299/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a therapist passionate about helping both individuals and relationships, I work with clients including teenagers and adults. I assist those in relationships facing intimacy challenges, communication issues, and frequent arguing. I also specialize LGBTQIA+ concerns. My therapeutic expertise includes trauma work, PTSD, OCD, anxiety-based disorders, and depression. As a breast cancer survivor, I bring a personal understanding of illness and the healing process. I have a keen interest in integrative and holistic health, offering a comprehensive approach to wellness.
As a therapist passionate about helping both individuals and relationships, I work with clients including teenagers and adults. I assist those in relationships facing intimacy challenges, communication issues, and frequent arguing. I also specialize LGBTQIA+ concerns. My therapeutic expertise includes trauma work, PTSD, OCD, anxiety-based disorders, and depression. As a breast cancer survivor, I bring a personal understanding of illness and the healing process. I have a keen interest in integrative and holistic health, offering a comprehensive approach to wellness.
![Photo of Hannah Lipschultz, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e93a6d9a-1ece-4e9e-95b3-3dac27091cd3/2/320x400.png)
Hannah Lipschultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301 (Online Only)
Hannah approaches therapy as a dance between the client and the therapist, where she allows the client to lead her on their journey. Hannah creates a space of both comfort and depth that allows clients to explore the inner workings of their minds as well as their day-to-day lives and relationships. With attention to both past and present aspects of her client’s experiences, Hannah holds the space for both exploration and solution-seeking.
Hannah approaches therapy as a dance between the client and the therapist, where she allows the client to lead her on their journey. Hannah creates a space of both comfort and depth that allows clients to explore the inner workings of their minds as well as their day-to-day lives and relationships. With attention to both past and present aspects of her client’s experiences, Hannah holds the space for both exploration and solution-seeking.
![Photo of Dr. Yvette Medina, LCPC, CADC, CAMS II, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/912cb4c2-906d-458c-afff-433f6e9a3d7d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! My name is Yvette Medina and I am a bicultural Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with a sense of humor and a love for helping people. I have 18 years experience working in the mental health field. I am so happy that you are taking the first step in taking care of yourself. I applaud you as you enter this journey. I understand that it is not always easy meeting with a stranger and sharing your fears and vulnerabilities, however, after a few minutes of introductions and exchanged pleasantries we will no longer be strangers. Allow me to help you onto your journey as you discover your inner self.
Welcome! My name is Yvette Medina and I am a bicultural Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Illinois with a sense of humor and a love for helping people. I have 18 years experience working in the mental health field. I am so happy that you are taking the first step in taking care of yourself. I applaud you as you enter this journey. I understand that it is not always easy meeting with a stranger and sharing your fears and vulnerabilities, however, after a few minutes of introductions and exchanged pleasantries we will no longer be strangers. Allow me to help you onto your journey as you discover your inner self.
See more therapy options for River Forest
Nearby Gestalt Therapists Searches for River Forest
- Berwyn
- Chicago
- Des Plaines
- Elmhurst
- Forest Park
- Hinsdale
- La Grange
- Lakeview
- Lincoln Park
- Lincolnwood
- Oak Brook
- Oak Park
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.