Gestalt Therapists in Lexington, NC

Photo of Michelle S. Libby, MEd, LCMHC, CTP, Counselor
Michelle S. Libby
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, CTP
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27292
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor with a background in treating teens and adults with anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, depressive disorders, and various other concerns. Additionally, I have experience working with children, adolescents, and teens with neurodevelopment disorders.
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor with a background in treating teens and adults with anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, depressive disorders, and various other concerns. Additionally, I have experience working with children, adolescents, and teens with neurodevelopment disorders.
(704) 286-1845 View (704) 286-1845
Photo of Karyn Miracle - Fortitude Counseling and Wellness, LCMHCA, Counselor
Fortitude Counseling and Wellness
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, NC 27292  (Online Only)
Are life’s challenges making you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or out of control? Do you feel as though you have lost pieces of yourself and are unsure of who you are or what you want? Have memories of the past or worries about the future prevented you from living the life you desire? Together we will explore and identify any barriers and obstacles keeping you stuck, and implement skills and strategies to help you reduce anxiety, improve mood, strengthen relationships, and foster growth.
Are life’s challenges making you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or out of control? Do you feel as though you have lost pieces of yourself and are unsure of who you are or what you want? Have memories of the past or worries about the future prevented you from living the life you desire? Together we will explore and identify any barriers and obstacles keeping you stuck, and implement skills and strategies to help you reduce anxiety, improve mood, strengthen relationships, and foster growth.
(336) 739-4309 View (336) 739-4309
Photo of Keith Alan DAVIS, LCMHCA, Counselor
Keith Alan DAVIS
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27295
I believe the road to a better you starts with building a respectful and meaningful relationship with my clients. I feel the client is their own expert on their life. This allows the client to be the guiding force in their mental health happiness. In order for happiness to be achieved, the client and counselor must work together. I provide an empathetic, caring and respectful environment that allows the client a safe place to start their positive mental health journey. I work primarily with adolescents and adults. As a veteran, I understand the issues that our military face. I am also versed in issues with the LBGTQ community.
I believe the road to a better you starts with building a respectful and meaningful relationship with my clients. I feel the client is their own expert on their life. This allows the client to be the guiding force in their mental health happiness. In order for happiness to be achieved, the client and counselor must work together. I provide an empathetic, caring and respectful environment that allows the client a safe place to start their positive mental health journey. I work primarily with adolescents and adults. As a veteran, I understand the issues that our military face. I am also versed in issues with the LBGTQ community.
(336) 864-2746 View (336) 864-2746
Photo of April Dawn-Eaddy Thornton - Voice for Children & Nurturing Families , LPC, RPT, CCTP, CSOTS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Voice for Children & Nurturing Families
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, CCTP, CSOTS
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27294
Accepting New Patients! VCNF specializes and is committed to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to achieve their goals and find healing within a safe environment. VCNF's goal is to assist patients in finding and expressing their maximum potential. VCNF specializes in treating trauma, adoption, foster care, depression, attachment, and attachment. VCNF's approach to therapy is unique in that she uses up-to-date interventions and various types of evidenced based treatment modalities to treat psychological and behavioral issues. VCNF is also a champion of healthy development, personal growth and relationships.
Accepting New Patients! VCNF specializes and is committed to helping children, adolescents, adults, and families to achieve their goals and find healing within a safe environment. VCNF's goal is to assist patients in finding and expressing their maximum potential. VCNF specializes in treating trauma, adoption, foster care, depression, attachment, and attachment. VCNF's approach to therapy is unique in that she uses up-to-date interventions and various types of evidenced based treatment modalities to treat psychological and behavioral issues. VCNF is also a champion of healthy development, personal growth and relationships.
(336) 739-4013 View (336) 739-4013
Photo of Chanelle T. Delima - B's Effort Changing Counseling, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, CSOTP, TFCBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
B's Effort Changing Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSOTP, TFCBT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, NC 27292
When life has gotten you down and you feel the weight of life on your shoulders know there is someone to assist you. B's has a wide array of therapist currently accepting new clients to help with struggles to help with depression, anxiety, behavioral, parental/child relationships, marital, self-esteem, past trauma, etc. Our goal is to help enhance coping skills you already have to be the best YOU! We value a collaborative approach and want to provide the support you need to grow in a safe space. We are passionate about educating about symptoms and assisting individuals and families with the skills to promote healthy coping skills.
When life has gotten you down and you feel the weight of life on your shoulders know there is someone to assist you. B's has a wide array of therapist currently accepting new clients to help with struggles to help with depression, anxiety, behavioral, parental/child relationships, marital, self-esteem, past trauma, etc. Our goal is to help enhance coping skills you already have to be the best YOU! We value a collaborative approach and want to provide the support you need to grow in a safe space. We are passionate about educating about symptoms and assisting individuals and families with the skills to promote healthy coping skills.
(704) 870-4987 View (704) 870-4987

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Zelma Renee Higgs - Rapunzels Phoenix Counseling Services PLLC, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Rapunzels Phoenix Counseling Services PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thomasville, NC 27360
My theoretical orientation is Person-Centered Therapy and Gestalt Therapy.
Imagine life is like a journey completely in your control but you feel stuck. Choices you make dictate life’s obstacles and they can be tricky. Life’s journey comes with no instruction pamphlet or ready-made companions. A path unfolds and you decide what to do and who to trust along the way. As you journey you begin to see things you want, potential companions, places you want to explore, and tools you can use to make travels simpler. There are so many choices to make with no time to stop and contemplate the best decision; you have to keep going by making choices every day, about everything. Decisions and deadlines do not wait.
My theoretical orientation is Person-Centered Therapy and Gestalt Therapy.
Imagine life is like a journey completely in your control but you feel stuck. Choices you make dictate life’s obstacles and they can be tricky. Life’s journey comes with no instruction pamphlet or ready-made companions. A path unfolds and you decide what to do and who to trust along the way. As you journey you begin to see things you want, potential companions, places you want to explore, and tools you can use to make travels simpler. There are so many choices to make with no time to stop and contemplate the best decision; you have to keep going by making choices every day, about everything. Decisions and deadlines do not wait.
(336) 360-3930 View (336) 360-3930
Photo of Tamika Wright, LCMHCA
Tamika Wright
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thomasville, NC 27360
As your counselor, I am here to support you in making meaning, creating comfort, and uncovering resources to help you be your best self. Taking an evidenced-based, client centered, and existentially informed approach, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
As your counselor, I am here to support you in making meaning, creating comfort, and uncovering resources to help you be your best self. Taking an evidenced-based, client centered, and existentially informed approach, I aim to provide a safe and supportive space where we can collaborate and work at your own pace to help you reach your goals.
(704) 459-8953 View (704) 459-8953

Online Therapists

Photo of Colleen Grunhaus, PhD, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, ACS
Colleen Grunhaus
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morrisville, NC 27560  (Online Only)
I am well-versed in a variety of approaches, and I tailor therapy to meet your needs, often using humanistic methods like Gestalt or Person-Centered therapy.
Whether you’re seeking to strengthen your relationship or simply looking to better understand yourself, I’m here to support you. I work with couples navigating challenges like communication breakdowns, recurring arguments, and feelings of disconnection. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes and develop practical strategies for resolution. For those grappling with betrayal or loss of trust, I offer a safe space to explore those complex emotions and rebuild trust. I also help individuals tackle self-esteem issues, embark on self-exploration, and find healthy ways to cope with their feelings.
I am well-versed in a variety of approaches, and I tailor therapy to meet your needs, often using humanistic methods like Gestalt or Person-Centered therapy.
Whether you’re seeking to strengthen your relationship or simply looking to better understand yourself, I’m here to support you. I work with couples navigating challenges like communication breakdowns, recurring arguments, and feelings of disconnection. Together, we’ll uncover the root causes and develop practical strategies for resolution. For those grappling with betrayal or loss of trust, I offer a safe space to explore those complex emotions and rebuild trust. I also help individuals tackle self-esteem issues, embark on self-exploration, and find healthy ways to cope with their feelings.
(984) 384-4859 View (984) 384-4859
Photo of Jenny Marie Massaway, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Marie Massaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
I provide an approach that focuses primarily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, although, I also offer Gestalt therapy and Play Therapy.
Children and adolescents need to know there is someone out there willing to sit and listen to what they are going through and have a support system in which to help them through a challenging time. Counseling is the first step towards taking control over one's life, and finding a counselor that is a good fit is imperative. I believe that therapy is a partnership that allows me the opportunity to help guide you towards your own personal goals.
I provide an approach that focuses primarily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, although, I also offer Gestalt therapy and Play Therapy.
Children and adolescents need to know there is someone out there willing to sit and listen to what they are going through and have a support system in which to help them through a challenging time. Counseling is the first step towards taking control over one's life, and finding a counselor that is a good fit is imperative. I believe that therapy is a partnership that allows me the opportunity to help guide you towards your own personal goals.
(734) 357-8293 View (734) 357-8293
Photo of Wendy Lehnertz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Lehnertz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
The main models I integrate with mindfulness are Attachment theory, IFS, Gestalt, EMDR and Sensorimotor.
As a Licensed Therapist in both Arizona and North Carolina, I provide residents of both states the convenience of telehealth services from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
The main models I integrate with mindfulness are Attachment theory, IFS, Gestalt, EMDR and Sensorimotor.
As a Licensed Therapist in both Arizona and North Carolina, I provide residents of both states the convenience of telehealth services from the comfort and privacy of your own home. I have over twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
(919) 343-9011 View (919) 343-9011
Photo of Dorothy Cashore, PhD, Psychologist
Dorothy Cashore
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
My primary clinical influences are Gestalt therapy, Buddhist/mindfulness-based therapy, EMDR, and humanistic therapy.
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
My primary clinical influences are Gestalt therapy, Buddhist/mindfulness-based therapy, EMDR, and humanistic therapy.
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
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Photo of Brittainy Adkins, LCMHC, LCAS, Counselor
Brittainy Adkins
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and pull from research-based approaches such as Cognitive Processing Therapy, Gestalt, and Neuropsychotherapy.
Why? It's such a simple word with so much importance. As humans, it is in our nature to ask this question about ourselves, others, and the world around us. Sometimes the answer may not be so clear. That's where therapy can help. I work with teens and adults who ask themselves this question every day. Perhaps you have experienced trauma at some point in your life, you're going through major changes, or you're struggling to truly find yourself. No matter where you are in your life, there is strength in asking for help.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma and pull from research-based approaches such as Cognitive Processing Therapy, Gestalt, and Neuropsychotherapy.
Why? It's such a simple word with so much importance. As humans, it is in our nature to ask this question about ourselves, others, and the world around us. Sometimes the answer may not be so clear. That's where therapy can help. I work with teens and adults who ask themselves this question every day. Perhaps you have experienced trauma at some point in your life, you're going through major changes, or you're struggling to truly find yourself. No matter where you are in your life, there is strength in asking for help.
(336) 891-3472 View (336) 891-3472
Photo of Laura Schmidt, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Laura Schmidt
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
During therapy, I pull from Cognitive Behavioral strategies, Strength-Based Counseling, and Gestalt psychology.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified Play Therapist. I was a school counselor for almost a decade and have offered individual and family therapy in a private practice setting for 10+ years. I am passionate about helping children, teens, young adults, and families reach peak life satisfaction. I partner with those facing bumps along their journey to cope with life's challenges. Please reach out to get to know me further!
During therapy, I pull from Cognitive Behavioral strategies, Strength-Based Counseling, and Gestalt psychology.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified Play Therapist. I was a school counselor for almost a decade and have offered individual and family therapy in a private practice setting for 10+ years. I am passionate about helping children, teens, young adults, and families reach peak life satisfaction. I partner with those facing bumps along their journey to cope with life's challenges. Please reach out to get to know me further!
(704) 703-3739 View (704) 703-3739
Photo of Betsy Newsome Moody, LCSWA
Betsy Newsome Moody
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer empathetic support to individuals ranging from ages 4 to 90, with a focus on addressing diverse life challenges. My approach is grounded in creating a secure and understanding space where clients can confront their difficulties and build effective coping strategies. My therapeutic methods encompass a broad spectrum, including Brief Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Restructuring, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, Existential Psychotherapy, Gestalt Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and more.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I offer empathetic support to individuals ranging from ages 4 to 90, with a focus on addressing diverse life challenges. My approach is grounded in creating a secure and understanding space where clients can confront their difficulties and build effective coping strategies. My therapeutic methods encompass a broad spectrum, including Brief Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Restructuring, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotion-Focused Therapy, Existential Psychotherapy, Gestalt Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and more.
(984) 977-4804 View (984) 977-4804
Photo of Ann M. Gregory, PhD, LCMHCA, NCC, CCTP
Ann M. Gregory
PhD, LCMHCA, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27408  (Online Only)
I also utilize cognitive behavior therapy, internal family systems theory, gestalt techniques, and creative/art therapy.
I work with a multitude of clients that may be feeling stuck in life, whether it be anxiety or depression, performance issues (athletes), trauma, developmental trauma (that which happens in childhood that one may or may not be aware of specifically). Our brains have been designed to heal. We are able to create new neuropaths for the entirety of our lives. In our work together, we can dismantle current maladaptive patterns and rewire our brains to process in healthy and meaningful ways. I have a history in Christian ministry and I understand the importance of faith; therefore, I am happy to integrate aspects of faith into our work.
I also utilize cognitive behavior therapy, internal family systems theory, gestalt techniques, and creative/art therapy.
I work with a multitude of clients that may be feeling stuck in life, whether it be anxiety or depression, performance issues (athletes), trauma, developmental trauma (that which happens in childhood that one may or may not be aware of specifically). Our brains have been designed to heal. We are able to create new neuropaths for the entirety of our lives. In our work together, we can dismantle current maladaptive patterns and rewire our brains to process in healthy and meaningful ways. I have a history in Christian ministry and I understand the importance of faith; therefore, I am happy to integrate aspects of faith into our work.
(336) 810-1277 View (336) 810-1277
Photo of Madelyn Harvey, PhD, LCMHC
Madelyn Harvey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
Some of the modalities I use are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Reality Therapy, and some techniques from Gestalt Therapy.
Are you experiencing past or recent trauma that is causing anxiety and/or depression? If you are considering talking with a therapist and want to talk to someone who listens attentively, who is non-judgmental, and who is empathetic, I am that person. There are many people who have experienced personal challenges in life. Learning how to cope and heal requires skills and techniques from a qualified mental health professional. My goal is to assist clients with developing new perspectives on their lives and fostering change so that they can live a much more fulfilling life.
Some of the modalities I use are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Reality Therapy, and some techniques from Gestalt Therapy.
Are you experiencing past or recent trauma that is causing anxiety and/or depression? If you are considering talking with a therapist and want to talk to someone who listens attentively, who is non-judgmental, and who is empathetic, I am that person. There are many people who have experienced personal challenges in life. Learning how to cope and heal requires skills and techniques from a qualified mental health professional. My goal is to assist clients with developing new perspectives on their lives and fostering change so that they can live a much more fulfilling life.
(336) 439-1530 View (336) 439-1530
Photo of John Poag, PhD, Psychologist
John Poag
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
I have practiced psychotherapy for 27 years in the Gestalt Therapy model.
A person coming to see me may be experiencing a significant life change such as a separation or divorce, a move, a career change, the deployment of their significant other, family problems, issues involving their child's behaviors or legal trouble, or problems in relationships with their spouse or partner. Others may seek psychotherapy to help themselves grow, deal with anger, or overcome patterns of behaviors or ways of being with others that don't work any more. Some people seek psychotherapy because someone close to them insisted they call me. I enjoy working with all of these presenting concerns.
I have practiced psychotherapy for 27 years in the Gestalt Therapy model.
A person coming to see me may be experiencing a significant life change such as a separation or divorce, a move, a career change, the deployment of their significant other, family problems, issues involving their child's behaviors or legal trouble, or problems in relationships with their spouse or partner. Others may seek psychotherapy to help themselves grow, deal with anger, or overcome patterns of behaviors or ways of being with others that don't work any more. Some people seek psychotherapy because someone close to them insisted they call me. I enjoy working with all of these presenting concerns.
(336) 270-9959 View (336) 270-9959
Photo of Megan Cummings, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Megan Cummings
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
In my work as a counselor, I use a mixture of Person-Centered and Gestalt therapy.
Sometimes we are exhausted by the headwinds of life or find ourselves nursing a broken wing, and we need a nest to land in. Counseling provides a safe, non-judgmental place to rest for a bit and examine the unique journey you are on. I use thought-provoking questions and imaginative exercises to help you adjust your trajectory and discover a new way to fly. My experience includes working with children who have gone through traumatic experiences (abuse, domestic violence, etc.), college students, and individuals experiencing religious trauma, cultural transition, and self-esteem issues.
In my work as a counselor, I use a mixture of Person-Centered and Gestalt therapy.
Sometimes we are exhausted by the headwinds of life or find ourselves nursing a broken wing, and we need a nest to land in. Counseling provides a safe, non-judgmental place to rest for a bit and examine the unique journey you are on. I use thought-provoking questions and imaginative exercises to help you adjust your trajectory and discover a new way to fly. My experience includes working with children who have gone through traumatic experiences (abuse, domestic violence, etc.), college students, and individuals experiencing religious trauma, cultural transition, and self-esteem issues.
(980) 842-6427 x1123 View (980) 842-6427 x1123
Photo of Robert Horne, LCHMHC
Robert Horne
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCHMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
My humanistic integrative approach incorporates cognitive behavioral, person-centered, Adlerian, reality, Gestalt, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a National Certified Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Approved Clinical Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, and International Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 13 years of mental health and addiction counseling experience and over 25 years of pastoral counseling experience. I am enthusiastic about assisting adults, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds in overcoming their current and past challenges and moving toward better living experiences. I specialize in helping adults, couples, and families with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and relationship concerns.
My humanistic integrative approach incorporates cognitive behavioral, person-centered, Adlerian, reality, Gestalt, and solution-focused therapy.
I am a National Certified Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Approved Clinical Supervisor, Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor, and International Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 13 years of mental health and addiction counseling experience and over 25 years of pastoral counseling experience. I am enthusiastic about assisting adults, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds in overcoming their current and past challenges and moving toward better living experiences. I specialize in helping adults, couples, and families with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and relationship concerns.
(919) 629-0909 View (919) 629-0909
Photo of Mary Jo Klingel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jo Klingel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My training in individual, group and couples therapy, Gestalt Therapy, process and cognitive therapies, well as EMDR, allow me to focus on each individual client based on their needs.
People often seek therapy when they have hit a wall in their lives. Maybe you have tried to do it differently this time, in your relationships or your work, or you have a sense that you are not where you want to be in your life. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, stress or trauma, or are in a major life transition. Whatever your needs or goals, you may have heard the small voice that says, "Maybe I need some help". My ideal client is anyone who is ready to listen to that voice, and knows that today is the day to reach out, and to seek the life you deserve.
My training in individual, group and couples therapy, Gestalt Therapy, process and cognitive therapies, well as EMDR, allow me to focus on each individual client based on their needs.
People often seek therapy when they have hit a wall in their lives. Maybe you have tried to do it differently this time, in your relationships or your work, or you have a sense that you are not where you want to be in your life. You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, stress or trauma, or are in a major life transition. Whatever your needs or goals, you may have heard the small voice that says, "Maybe I need some help". My ideal client is anyone who is ready to listen to that voice, and knows that today is the day to reach out, and to seek the life you deserve.
(980) 276-2744 View (980) 276-2744

See more therapy options for Lexington

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.