Gestalt Therapists in Lincoln, MA

Photo of Norm Ephraim, EdD, Psychologist
Norm Ephraim
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
Methods of psychotherapy that I have integrated include (IFS) Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, Gestalt Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
My approach to counseling is active and empowering . Utilizing various methods I have learned over more than 40 years of practice I will quickly help you identify strengths and challenges to living your life more fully. Clients I have helped most effectively include those struggling with ADHD (whether diagnosed or suspected) , anxiety, grief, trauma, sexual orientation, and life stage adjustment issues. Sessions can be either online or in person at my comfortable home office only 1 mile from Route 128 near route 2A.
Methods of psychotherapy that I have integrated include (IFS) Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, Gestalt Therapy, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
My approach to counseling is active and empowering . Utilizing various methods I have learned over more than 40 years of practice I will quickly help you identify strengths and challenges to living your life more fully. Clients I have helped most effectively include those struggling with ADHD (whether diagnosed or suspected) , anxiety, grief, trauma, sexual orientation, and life stage adjustment issues. Sessions can be either online or in person at my comfortable home office only 1 mile from Route 128 near route 2A.
(781) 780-6964 View (781) 780-6964
Photo of Suzanne Harmon - Suzanne Harmon, Licensed Psychologist, EdD, Psychologist
Suzanne Harmon, Licensed Psychologist
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773  (Online Only)
I work with adults, from college-age to elderly. My practice appeals to people who who not only suffer from symptoms that impede their daily happiness, but those who long to grow in their understanding of themselves and others. I aid in this process by focusing closely on the unique talents each person brings into the room. I look not for what is wrong but what is right and simply ask that they bring an honest willingness to participate in a partnership for change.
I work with adults, from college-age to elderly. My practice appeals to people who who not only suffer from symptoms that impede their daily happiness, but those who long to grow in their understanding of themselves and others. I aid in this process by focusing closely on the unique talents each person brings into the room. I look not for what is wrong but what is right and simply ask that they bring an honest willingness to participate in a partnership for change.
(781) 702-3237 View (781) 702-3237
Photo of Lucia Ciccarello, LMHC, Counselor
Lucia Ciccarello
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
My ideal client would be someone who has not had much success with counseling in the past but is very motivated to participate. I would love to work with a client who has struggled with depression, anxiety, some substance use, and has a history of trauma. I would work to help this client recognize how these issues are connected and perpetuate a cycle. I would also want to help them interrupt that cycle and set boundaries with themselves and in interpersonal relationships. I would work with this client to find healthy hobbies and coping skills while also challenging them.
My ideal client would be someone who has not had much success with counseling in the past but is very motivated to participate. I would love to work with a client who has struggled with depression, anxiety, some substance use, and has a history of trauma. I would work to help this client recognize how these issues are connected and perpetuate a cycle. I would also want to help them interrupt that cycle and set boundaries with themselves and in interpersonal relationships. I would work with this client to find healthy hobbies and coping skills while also challenging them.
(856) 291-9878 View (856) 291-9878
Photo of Kerrin Messina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerrin Messina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
Kerrin Messina is a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with 5 years of experience working with individuals that have faced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, chronic illness, grief/loss, substance use, unemployment, trauma, and adjustments that come with life. She is passionate about helping individuals struggling with self-esteem, end-of-life care, and finding that strength within. Kerrin is currently working on obtaining her independent licensure in the state of Massachusetts. Kerrin received her Master's degree in Social Work from Boise State University.
Kerrin Messina is a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) with 5 years of experience working with individuals that have faced depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, chronic illness, grief/loss, substance use, unemployment, trauma, and adjustments that come with life. She is passionate about helping individuals struggling with self-esteem, end-of-life care, and finding that strength within. Kerrin is currently working on obtaining her independent licensure in the state of Massachusetts. Kerrin received her Master's degree in Social Work from Boise State University.
(617) 766-0192 View (617) 766-0192
Photo of Arlene Small, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Arlene Small
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
The ideal client is open to receiving advice and implementing it into their daily lives. The client may have issues with substance abuse due to a lack of healthy coping skills. The client's needs are to improve the quality of work-life balance. It is also important for clients to learn healthy coping strategies to cope with anxiety, depression, and other underlying mental health disorders that are often the underlying cause of substance abuse.
The ideal client is open to receiving advice and implementing it into their daily lives. The client may have issues with substance abuse due to a lack of healthy coping skills. The client's needs are to improve the quality of work-life balance. It is also important for clients to learn healthy coping strategies to cope with anxiety, depression, and other underlying mental health disorders that are often the underlying cause of substance abuse.
(339) 231-8698 View (339) 231-8698
Photo of Angela Boring, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Boring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
My ideal client is often a little uncomfortable internally, manifested as anxiety or depression. Often, clients I work best with have a complex childhood that can filter into current relationships. My clients often love objective data (like I do) and will measure key components of their care to understand if they are improving over time.
My ideal client is often a little uncomfortable internally, manifested as anxiety or depression. Often, clients I work best with have a complex childhood that can filter into current relationships. My clients often love objective data (like I do) and will measure key components of their care to understand if they are improving over time.
(856) 291-9878 View (856) 291-9878

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sharona Halpern, MA, LMHC, ACC, Counselor
Sharona Halpern
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ACC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
Introduction to The Cape Cod Model and Cape Cod Training Program at The Gestalt International Study Center.
Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients at this time. (updated 05/15/24) For over twenty five years, I have been practicing psychotherapy with couples, families and individuals, addressing a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, sexuality, trauma, loss and grief. My style is interactive, supportive and collaborative. My role is to help you discover your strengths and learn to build on them, leading to personal growth and change. Additionally, therapy is a place to explore what is preventing you from reaching your goals and living a better quality life.
Introduction to The Cape Cod Model and Cape Cod Training Program at The Gestalt International Study Center.
Unfortunately, I am not accepting new clients at this time. (updated 05/15/24) For over twenty five years, I have been practicing psychotherapy with couples, families and individuals, addressing a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, life transitions, sexuality, trauma, loss and grief. My style is interactive, supportive and collaborative. My role is to help you discover your strengths and learn to build on them, leading to personal growth and change. Additionally, therapy is a place to explore what is preventing you from reaching your goals and living a better quality life.
(857) 919-1811 View (857) 919-1811
Photo of Karen Voorhees, LMHC, Counselor
Karen Voorhees
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02420
Waitlist for new clients
I started my career after graduate school running group homes for adolescents. I also spent time working in a residential treatment program for adults with eating disorders, and maintained a small caseload for individual psychotherapy.For the past 13 years, I have been in private practice full time providing psychotherapy to individuals and some couples. In the past few years, my interest has turned to experiential therapies such as Internal Family Systems, Psychodrama, and Gestalt. Other strong interests include Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Experiencing and Attachment Theory. My work is trauma-informed and holistic.
I started my career after graduate school running group homes for adolescents. I also spent time working in a residential treatment program for adults with eating disorders, and maintained a small caseload for individual psychotherapy.For the past 13 years, I have been in private practice full time providing psychotherapy to individuals and some couples. In the past few years, my interest has turned to experiential therapies such as Internal Family Systems, Psychodrama, and Gestalt. Other strong interests include Polyvagal Theory, Somatic Experiencing and Attachment Theory. My work is trauma-informed and holistic.
(781) 334-8943 View (781) 334-8943
Photo of Joel D Ziff, EdD, CSAT-S, Psychologist
Joel D Ziff
Psychologist, EdD, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Waban, MA 02468
organizational development, developmental psychology, gestalt therapy, transactional analysis, and body-oriented psychotherapy based on the approaches of Ilana Rubenfeld, F.
I currently have openings in groups for men in recovery from sex addiction and intimacy disorders. I am a certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor (CSAT-S). In addition to facilitating groups, I work with individuals, couples, and families focused on coping with challenges of sex addiction and intimacy disorders. I also work with clients coping with issues related to chronic/catastrophic illness, pain management, relationship issues (couples, children, and families), phobias, post-traumatic stress, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bi-polar).
organizational development, developmental psychology, gestalt therapy, transactional analysis, and body-oriented psychotherapy based on the approaches of Ilana Rubenfeld, F.
I currently have openings in groups for men in recovery from sex addiction and intimacy disorders. I am a certified Sex Addiction Therapist Supervisor (CSAT-S). In addition to facilitating groups, I work with individuals, couples, and families focused on coping with challenges of sex addiction and intimacy disorders. I also work with clients coping with issues related to chronic/catastrophic illness, pain management, relationship issues (couples, children, and families), phobias, post-traumatic stress, and mood disorders (depression, anxiety, bi-polar).
(617) 307-4807 View (617) 307-4807
Photo of Pamela L Criswell, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Pamela L Criswell
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02138
I have an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing verbal therapies including CBT, DBT, humanistic, mindfulness, gestalt approaches and art therapies techniques that best suit a client's ability to move forward in therapy.
Old habits and fixed thoughts may be preventing you from making decisions or choosing a life-path. Together, we will work to build your confidence, decision making skills, and develop strategies for you to achieve success! With over 20 years of experience, I graduated from Lesley University with a Master in Expressive Therapy with an Art Therapy Specialization. I received post-graduate training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma studies. I am a Registered Art Therapist and Certified Eat, Breathe Thrive(TM) Instructor.
I have an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing verbal therapies including CBT, DBT, humanistic, mindfulness, gestalt approaches and art therapies techniques that best suit a client's ability to move forward in therapy.
Old habits and fixed thoughts may be preventing you from making decisions or choosing a life-path. Together, we will work to build your confidence, decision making skills, and develop strategies for you to achieve success! With over 20 years of experience, I graduated from Lesley University with a Master in Expressive Therapy with an Art Therapy Specialization. I received post-graduate training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma studies. I am a Registered Art Therapist and Certified Eat, Breathe Thrive(TM) Instructor.
(617) 341-8209 View (617) 341-8209
Photo of Danny Elliott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danny Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02138  (Online Only)
Depending on needs and client preference, I am experienced in providing several modalities of treatment, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, existential, person-centered, Gestalt, Art, mindfulness, guided meditation and behavioral therapy to name a few.
I provide individual therapy with adults who are ready for change. This may be dealing with issues like ruminating thoughts, anxiety attacks, disassociation, flashbacks, obsessions and compulsions, triggers and cognitive distortions Etc. I specialize in anxiety/panic, PTSD, CPTSD, depression, DID, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and LGBTQIA+-related issues as well as many other conditions.
Depending on needs and client preference, I am experienced in providing several modalities of treatment, including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, existential, person-centered, Gestalt, Art, mindfulness, guided meditation and behavioral therapy to name a few.
I provide individual therapy with adults who are ready for change. This may be dealing with issues like ruminating thoughts, anxiety attacks, disassociation, flashbacks, obsessions and compulsions, triggers and cognitive distortions Etc. I specialize in anxiety/panic, PTSD, CPTSD, depression, DID, schizophrenia, substance abuse, and LGBTQIA+-related issues as well as many other conditions.
(351) 208-2415 View (351) 208-2415
Photo of Maxwell Levis, PhD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maxwell Levis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton Centre, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I use psychodynamic, gestalt, mindfulness, and arts-based interventions to guide clients towards meaningful change, identifying, acknowledging, and enhancing their personal patterns.
I am a psychotherapist, teacher, and researcher focused on brief individualized interventions that have long term benefits. I utilize creativity to help clients find their own path to self-discovery and growth. I specialize in integrating relational perspectives to develop personalized care. My treatment approach centers on wellness and discerning the unique ways of finding balance in our lives. As part of this process, I focus on interpersonal dynamics, family history, and current objectives.
I use psychodynamic, gestalt, mindfulness, and arts-based interventions to guide clients towards meaningful change, identifying, acknowledging, and enhancing their personal patterns.
I am a psychotherapist, teacher, and researcher focused on brief individualized interventions that have long term benefits. I utilize creativity to help clients find their own path to self-discovery and growth. I specialize in integrating relational perspectives to develop personalized care. My treatment approach centers on wellness and discerning the unique ways of finding balance in our lives. As part of this process, I focus on interpersonal dynamics, family history, and current objectives.
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Photo of Jeremy Borer - Somatic Psychotherapy Group, LICSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeremy Borer - Somatic Psychotherapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02467
My experience includes practicing and supervising in mental health agencies, Faculty Supervisor at Gestalt Therapy training institute, four years of Post-Graduate institute training in Gestalt Therapy, and teaching at Brooklyn College.
Offering Telehealth Appointments in New York, Massachusetts, and In-Person in Northampton, MA. If you feel stuck and want to break out of old patterns, you don't have to go it alone. In a safe space that we co-create, you'll learn to identify outdated ways of living that helped you survive, and develop new ways to thrive and expand healthy choices. As the Clinical Director of a group practice, we have multiple therapists offering this approach starting at $140/appointment. Reach out to explore options and learn more about our other therapists and fee ranges at www.SomaticPsychotherapyGroup.com
My experience includes practicing and supervising in mental health agencies, Faculty Supervisor at Gestalt Therapy training institute, four years of Post-Graduate institute training in Gestalt Therapy, and teaching at Brooklyn College.
Offering Telehealth Appointments in New York, Massachusetts, and In-Person in Northampton, MA. If you feel stuck and want to break out of old patterns, you don't have to go it alone. In a safe space that we co-create, you'll learn to identify outdated ways of living that helped you survive, and develop new ways to thrive and expand healthy choices. As the Clinical Director of a group practice, we have multiple therapists offering this approach starting at $140/appointment. Reach out to explore options and learn more about our other therapists and fee ranges at www.SomaticPsychotherapyGroup.com
(347) 254-7607 View (347) 254-7607
Photo of Violeta Gonzalez Fowler, LMHC, LCMHC, , NCC, Counselor
Violeta Gonzalez Fowler
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Billerica, MA 01821  (Online Only)
Some of my specific trainings and certifications include: ISSTD (International Society of Trauma and Dissociation), Gestalt Institute in Cleveland, ASCH ( American Society of Clinical Hypnosis) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Professional Counselor who has been practicing for the past 15 years and I am passionate in helping others. I am committed to providing a nurturing, non-judgemental environment where you can learn about yourself and your relationship with others. I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, dissociation, relationship issues, mood changes, obsessive compulsive disorders.
Some of my specific trainings and certifications include: ISSTD (International Society of Trauma and Dissociation), Gestalt Institute in Cleveland, ASCH ( American Society of Clinical Hypnosis) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Professional Counselor who has been practicing for the past 15 years and I am passionate in helping others. I am committed to providing a nurturing, non-judgemental environment where you can learn about yourself and your relationship with others. I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, dissociation, relationship issues, mood changes, obsessive compulsive disorders.
(508) 403-9136 View (508) 403-9136
Photo of Ireneusz Sielski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ireneusz Sielski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic approach, incorporating EMDR, Family Systems Theory, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, and other methods.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with expertise in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I work with individuals, couples, and families, drawing on experience with clients from the US and Europe. Licensed in MA and CT. (Note: I accept Tufts insurance with exception of Tufts Health Direct, Tufts Together, Tufts Unify – also called OneCare)
I use an eclectic approach, incorporating EMDR, Family Systems Theory, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, and other methods.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with expertise in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I work with individuals, couples, and families, drawing on experience with clients from the US and Europe. Licensed in MA and CT. (Note: I accept Tufts insurance with exception of Tufts Health Direct, Tufts Together, Tufts Unify – also called OneCare)
(508) 501-0561 View (508) 501-0561
Photo of Sasha Statman-Weil, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sasha Statman-Weil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02456
For each unique person or couple I work with, I weave together behavioral (DBT, CBT, ACT), narrative and somatic ( Gestalt, Somatic Experiencing) approaches to shape our work specifically to you.
<- New sessions available mornings & evenings - New couples welcome -> Are you living with challenging routines? Having the same fight over and over or the same negative self-thoughts every night? Often, these painful patterns came out of initial attempts to help care for yourself or your relationship. My goal is to support you to explore how these patterns influence your life today and then to continue the parts that serve you and to change the ones that don’t. You may build new boundaries, find ways to quiet shame and shape new narratives of possibility to find the growth you're looking for.
For each unique person or couple I work with, I weave together behavioral (DBT, CBT, ACT), narrative and somatic ( Gestalt, Somatic Experiencing) approaches to shape our work specifically to you.
<- New sessions available mornings & evenings - New couples welcome -> Are you living with challenging routines? Having the same fight over and over or the same negative self-thoughts every night? Often, these painful patterns came out of initial attempts to help care for yourself or your relationship. My goal is to support you to explore how these patterns influence your life today and then to continue the parts that serve you and to change the ones that don’t. You may build new boundaries, find ways to quiet shame and shape new narratives of possibility to find the growth you're looking for.
(413) 331-7226 View (413) 331-7226
Photo of Beck Sloman, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beck Sloman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02460
I use a range of modalities, including CBT, interpersonal therapy, and Gestalt techniques, to guide you through healing.
My practice is committed to empowering adults and couples to overcome the intense challenges of trauma, life transitions, and relationship struggles—whether it's loss, divorce, breakups, or parenting. I also take pride in working with men seeking support for their unique challenges. Together, we'll reclaim your priorities, break through negative thought patterns, and create stronger, healthier relationships. After our sessions, you'll feel more grounded, balanced, and aware of yourself, with a deeper sense of gratitude and connection to the world around you.
I use a range of modalities, including CBT, interpersonal therapy, and Gestalt techniques, to guide you through healing.
My practice is committed to empowering adults and couples to overcome the intense challenges of trauma, life transitions, and relationship struggles—whether it's loss, divorce, breakups, or parenting. I also take pride in working with men seeking support for their unique challenges. Together, we'll reclaim your priorities, break through negative thought patterns, and create stronger, healthier relationships. After our sessions, you'll feel more grounded, balanced, and aware of yourself, with a deeper sense of gratitude and connection to the world around you.
(617) 271-2910 View (617) 271-2910
Photo of Stuart N Simon, LICSW, MCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stuart N Simon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MCC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
I have been practicing psychotherapy with individuals, couples, families and groups for more than 35 years. My style is interactive and my goal is to provide safety and support in creating a collaborative, therapeutic relationship. I use a variety of theoretical approaches with a particuar focus on Gestalt theory to help clients identify the issues that need to be managed or resolved in order to achieve the quality of life they are seeking.
I have been practicing psychotherapy with individuals, couples, families and groups for more than 35 years. My style is interactive and my goal is to provide safety and support in creating a collaborative, therapeutic relationship. I use a variety of theoretical approaches with a particuar focus on Gestalt theory to help clients identify the issues that need to be managed or resolved in order to achieve the quality of life they are seeking.
(617) 943-4884 View (617) 943-4884
Photo of Rebecca Stearns, ALM, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Rebecca Stearns
Counselor, ALM, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02138
I will help my clients using a variety of techniques, such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness and gestalt.
I feel therapy is a modality for clients to tap into their own Human resilence. I appreciate the mind-body system. Life gives us challenges. As a therapist I will work with you to find your resilent capacity in a safe and compaaionate space. I will guide you in becoming more grounded and confident in yourself.
I will help my clients using a variety of techniques, such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness and gestalt.
I feel therapy is a modality for clients to tap into their own Human resilence. I appreciate the mind-body system. Life gives us challenges. As a therapist I will work with you to find your resilent capacity in a safe and compaaionate space. I will guide you in becoming more grounded and confident in yourself.
(508) 556-6240 View (508) 556-6240
Photo of Nadia Therese Brandon, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadia Therese Brandon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135
Nadia utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Gestalt therapy, Behavioral activation, reflective listening and mindfulness approaches to help clients reach their individual potential and goals.
Nadia Thérèse Brandon is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has over 5 years of experience in mental health. Her specialties include treating PTSD, anxiety management and attachment-based issues in relationships. Nadia takes a warm, non-judgmental, strengths-based approach to therapeutic healing, seeing the whole person rather than focusing on deficits.
Nadia utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), Gestalt therapy, Behavioral activation, reflective listening and mindfulness approaches to help clients reach their individual potential and goals.
Nadia Thérèse Brandon is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has over 5 years of experience in mental health. Her specialties include treating PTSD, anxiety management and attachment-based issues in relationships. Nadia takes a warm, non-judgmental, strengths-based approach to therapeutic healing, seeing the whole person rather than focusing on deficits.
(857) 240-8372 View (857) 240-8372

See more therapy options for Lincoln

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.