Therapists in Pittsboro, NC
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Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in North Carolina below.More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Leslie Mulligan, MS, EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e619e7e6-ecda-4974-92aa-cca4748e1732/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Mulligan
Counselor, MS, EdS, LCPC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27517 (Online Only)
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
I am a creative humanist. As an experiential psychotherapist, I join with you in your life-in-process to support your self-awareness, healing, and growth. I engage with your whole person - body, mind, being - your unique "me". Life change, moods, relationships, work, health, recovery are my focus. Rather than lean into pathology, I value your intelligence, ways of expression, learning and strategies. Using facts, metaphor, lived experience, humor, honesty you'll see your own best way through. I tailor my tools to your person/couple/family's needs. You gain objective and compassionate insights, and new tools for thriving.
![Photo of David C Reid - Present Therapy, NC, LCMHCA, 19045](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4efc004d-7eb5-4c22-a734-e8fa54fba36e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Present Therapy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, NC, LCMHCA, 19045
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Why do we do anything? I believe the reason that we do anything is to feel better. There may be 5 physical senses; however, we pursue life always in the hope of feeling better. We attract our life circumstances based on how we feel. Our active emotions create an emotional vibrational set point. When we learn to tend to our emotional health first, prior to engaging in action, we become the authors of our lives. Learning to find emotional alignment prior to engaging in activity, conversation, and interaction with others, will allow us to attract our wanted life desires. Thus, change your energy and you change your life.
Why do we do anything? I believe the reason that we do anything is to feel better. There may be 5 physical senses; however, we pursue life always in the hope of feeling better. We attract our life circumstances based on how we feel. Our active emotions create an emotional vibrational set point. When we learn to tend to our emotional health first, prior to engaging in action, we become the authors of our lives. Learning to find emotional alignment prior to engaging in activity, conversation, and interaction with others, will allow us to attract our wanted life desires. Thus, change your energy and you change your life.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Asante McCoy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5484aa42-d9f7-43c6-800c-c802bdf0b618/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize various treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, etc.
Hi everyone! Thanks for stopping by! Mental Health has been my passion since childhood. Life can bring you so many problems, whether it's stress in a relationship, family stress, work stress, anxiety or depression. You may also be dealing with a diagnosis that you have had for years and may be interested in restarting therapy; whether it's bipolar disorder, ADHD, or OCD. I'm here to help! I offer teletherapy. Yep that's right! You can talk to me from the comfort of your home! Therapy requires hard work and I'm here to put in just as much as work as you to assist with whatever life is throwing at you.
I utilize various treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, etc.
Hi everyone! Thanks for stopping by! Mental Health has been my passion since childhood. Life can bring you so many problems, whether it's stress in a relationship, family stress, work stress, anxiety or depression. You may also be dealing with a diagnosis that you have had for years and may be interested in restarting therapy; whether it's bipolar disorder, ADHD, or OCD. I'm here to help! I offer teletherapy. Yep that's right! You can talk to me from the comfort of your home! Therapy requires hard work and I'm here to put in just as much as work as you to assist with whatever life is throwing at you.
![Photo of Jenny Marie Massaway, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fab05a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Anasya Silver, MS, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a445158-b59f-4a70-b317-340f6bb44217/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anasya Silver
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27834
My approach to therapy is grounded in person centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, strengths based, and Gestalt.
Can we agree that sometimes life has a way of lifing and knocking us off balance. Reaching out to find a therapist can be daunting and often times the first step you take. Congratulations in taking that first step! I have experience working with individuals and families (ages 5+) with all manners of mental health diagnosis and external stressors especially past and current traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, life adjustments, anger management, and oppositional behaviors.
My approach to therapy is grounded in person centered, Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, strengths based, and Gestalt.
Can we agree that sometimes life has a way of lifing and knocking us off balance. Reaching out to find a therapist can be daunting and often times the first step you take. Congratulations in taking that first step! I have experience working with individuals and families (ages 5+) with all manners of mental health diagnosis and external stressors especially past and current traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, life adjustments, anger management, and oppositional behaviors.
![Photo of Christina Phillips, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/14f452e0-7348-4f9a-a5e4-92834d408f9d/2/320x400.png)
Hello, My name is Christina Phillips. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I approach therapy as a journey together, in which we get to grow. I have special experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have experience doing individual and family therapy. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Strategic Family Therapy.
Hello, My name is Christina Phillips. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I approach therapy as a journey together, in which we get to grow. I have special experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have experience doing individual and family therapy. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Strategic Family Therapy.
![Photo of Allison (Alli) Pongetti, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/330cdf69-b402-4e9e-8b44-12fb8ce72212/1/320x400.jpeg)
With a holistic approach, I combine elements of gestalt therapy, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions to guide emerging adults towards personal growth, improved self-esteem, and enhanced overall well-being.
My passion is working with the unique challenges faced by emerging adults dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, grief, and trauma, although I am open to working with adults of all ages. Specializing in emerging adults (16-30), I recognize the pivotal stage of life that this demographic represents, where young individuals are transitioning into adulthood and facing complex emotional and psychological changes. Through a client-centered approach, I foster a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
With a holistic approach, I combine elements of gestalt therapy, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions to guide emerging adults towards personal growth, improved self-esteem, and enhanced overall well-being.
My passion is working with the unique challenges faced by emerging adults dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, grief, and trauma, although I am open to working with adults of all ages. Specializing in emerging adults (16-30), I recognize the pivotal stage of life that this demographic represents, where young individuals are transitioning into adulthood and facing complex emotional and psychological changes. Through a client-centered approach, I foster a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
![Photo of Dr. Maddy M Lowman, PhD, LCMHC, SEP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96248072-dd82-4476-9572-5e7a3dc32320/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Maddy M Lowman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27401
Waitlist for new clients
I typically use a Gestalt and existential lens with clients, encouraging present-moment experiences and helping clients as they make meaning of their lived experiences.
It can be exceptionally difficult to go through daily life, and I've found that to be true for most (if not all) people I know and love. There are so many difficult things that can pile up on one another, making it complicated to maintain relationships, wellness, work, and other things you might value. Sometimes it's hard to "ask for what you need" because sometimes we have no idea! I'm here to help even when that question feels hard to answer, and our work can start with exploring goals you have for yourself. The resiliency I see in clients is awe-inspiring and beautiful, and I offer several approaches to help them get there.
I typically use a Gestalt and existential lens with clients, encouraging present-moment experiences and helping clients as they make meaning of their lived experiences.
It can be exceptionally difficult to go through daily life, and I've found that to be true for most (if not all) people I know and love. There are so many difficult things that can pile up on one another, making it complicated to maintain relationships, wellness, work, and other things you might value. Sometimes it's hard to "ask for what you need" because sometimes we have no idea! I'm here to help even when that question feels hard to answer, and our work can start with exploring goals you have for yourself. The resiliency I see in clients is awe-inspiring and beautiful, and I offer several approaches to help them get there.
![Photo of Prof. Alphonsus Ekele Ngwadom - Almarch Family Care, LLC , PhD, MS, MAED, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48ad1b5a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Almarch Family Care, LLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, MS, MAED, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27801
Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, rational emotive, Gestalt therapy, .
Mentor and Precept Masters and PhD degree students on Psychotherapy of Nursing, Psychiatric Nurses. Offer counseling using Cognitive behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Eclectic Strategies for clients with Immigration and adjustment issues, Court Ordered Assessment, Physical and sexual abuse therapy, Domestic Violence, Anxiety/emotional difficulty, Posttraumatic Stress disorder(PTSD), Depression, Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Teen Pregnancy prevention, Low Self Esteem, School suspension/skipping, Juvenile Justice/foster care counseling etc.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, rational emotive, Gestalt therapy, .
Mentor and Precept Masters and PhD degree students on Psychotherapy of Nursing, Psychiatric Nurses. Offer counseling using Cognitive behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Eclectic Strategies for clients with Immigration and adjustment issues, Court Ordered Assessment, Physical and sexual abuse therapy, Domestic Violence, Anxiety/emotional difficulty, Posttraumatic Stress disorder(PTSD), Depression, Anger Management, Conflict Resolution, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity, Teen Pregnancy prevention, Low Self Esteem, School suspension/skipping, Juvenile Justice/foster care counseling etc.
![Photo of Andrea Beach, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd993fe1-538d-4970-bc89-be3ac0494122/2/320x400.jpeg)
I will work with you from a strengths-based approach, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as solutions-focused, Gestalt, and family systems.
Welcome! I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients ages 18 and up. Life can be difficult for people of all ages and stages of life. I am currently a Counselor at Southlake Counseling and appreciate working with individuals with anxiety, depression, adjusting, couples and families with relationship issues, women struggling with self-esteem, infertility, postpartum, eating disorders, survivors of sexual abuse and more. I utilize elements of person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solutions-focused, and am learning more about the Gottman method in working with couples and DBT for individuals.
I will work with you from a strengths-based approach, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, as well as solutions-focused, Gestalt, and family systems.
Welcome! I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients ages 18 and up. Life can be difficult for people of all ages and stages of life. I am currently a Counselor at Southlake Counseling and appreciate working with individuals with anxiety, depression, adjusting, couples and families with relationship issues, women struggling with self-esteem, infertility, postpartum, eating disorders, survivors of sexual abuse and more. I utilize elements of person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solutions-focused, and am learning more about the Gottman method in working with couples and DBT for individuals.
![Photo of Emily Hartung, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f1a8863-ee9e-4a53-82ce-805707cc6aff/3/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Hartung
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540 (Online Only)
EMDR trained, Person-centered, art therapy techniques, Gestalt techniques, CBT.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life transitions, depression, anxiety and ADHD. I continue to learn about ADHD and incorporate a person-centered approach into work with all my clients. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages who have experienced trauma of any kind. I enjoy helping clients navigate through the past trauma and unpack the ways that the past is currently impacting them. I am an EMDR-certified counselor and provide a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. I am currently accepting new virtual clients and have found that teletherapy with EMDR works well for many individuals.
EMDR trained, Person-centered, art therapy techniques, Gestalt techniques, CBT.
I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life transitions, depression, anxiety and ADHD. I continue to learn about ADHD and incorporate a person-centered approach into work with all my clients. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages who have experienced trauma of any kind. I enjoy helping clients navigate through the past trauma and unpack the ways that the past is currently impacting them. I am an EMDR-certified counselor and provide a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. I am currently accepting new virtual clients and have found that teletherapy with EMDR works well for many individuals.
Gregory Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27403
I excel in supporting children, adolescents, and adults grappling with mental health challenges, self-esteem, and performance concerns. My expertise particularly shines when aiding those who battle with mental disorders, self-image, motivational issues, and performance obstacles. Additionally, my training equips me to assist those who have endured trauma, including individuals affected by violence. The clients I seek are those determined to progress and are willing to adhere to their treatment plans to realize tangible improvements.
I excel in supporting children, adolescents, and adults grappling with mental health challenges, self-esteem, and performance concerns. My expertise particularly shines when aiding those who battle with mental disorders, self-image, motivational issues, and performance obstacles. Additionally, my training equips me to assist those who have endured trauma, including individuals affected by violence. The clients I seek are those determined to progress and are willing to adhere to their treatment plans to realize tangible improvements.
![Photo of Hugo Izzo, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a046dcc9-7d6d-41f0-bb03-e646db8216df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is ask for help. Are you hurting, feeling anxious or depressed? Seeking EMDR therapy? Do you have a secret that is crushing you? I am here to help. With over 25 years experience helping people work through a variety of issues, I believe I can help you find hope and experience courage to overcome your challenges. Whatever you are experiencing and feeling, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a wonderful place of safety and acceptance where you can process your thoughts and feelings, whatever they may be. Life is a struggle, but I will help you struggle in the right direction.
Sometimes the strongest thing you can do is ask for help. Are you hurting, feeling anxious or depressed? Seeking EMDR therapy? Do you have a secret that is crushing you? I am here to help. With over 25 years experience helping people work through a variety of issues, I believe I can help you find hope and experience courage to overcome your challenges. Whatever you are experiencing and feeling, I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a wonderful place of safety and acceptance where you can process your thoughts and feelings, whatever they may be. Life is a struggle, but I will help you struggle in the right direction.
![Photo of Cherese Smith Blue - Smith’s Counseling and Wellness PLLC, LCMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d0011a6-01d6-4c15-acd4-f1f5babd202d/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Cherese Smith Blue, and I have over eleven years of experience in the human services industry, working with youth and adults. Whether you are dealing with everyday stress or undergoing significant life challenges, I am here to support you every step of the way.
My name is Cherese Smith Blue, and I have over eleven years of experience in the human services industry, working with youth and adults. Whether you are dealing with everyday stress or undergoing significant life challenges, I am here to support you every step of the way.
![Photo of Luevelyn Jacobs Tillman - Greater Vision Counseling & Consulting Agency PLLC, LCSW, LCASA, TF-CBT, SOTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f46559-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Greater Vision Counseling & Consulting Agency PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCASA, TF-CBT, SOTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raeford, NC 28376
I have personal experience in the challenges of being a wife and mother. I have dealt with the struggles of deciding the courses of treatment for my children. I have endured the restless nights of stress with many factors that affect the ability to balance life and self-care. We live in difficult times but together we can find a way to navigate through to brighter days. Life experiences has brought me to this place and time to help others.
I have personal experience in the challenges of being a wife and mother. I have dealt with the struggles of deciding the courses of treatment for my children. I have endured the restless nights of stress with many factors that affect the ability to balance life and self-care. We live in difficult times but together we can find a way to navigate through to brighter days. Life experiences has brought me to this place and time to help others.
![Photo of Monica Raynor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, BSN, RN](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a00a85b0-e695-4d14-b751-dcb8194b927b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Monica Raynor
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselors, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Dunn, NC 28334
I provide a safe, welcoming space in an effort to help clients feel at home. I provide continuous support for an array of issues pertaining to adults. I believe the counseling relationship is the most important component to clients meeting their therapy goals.
I provide a safe, welcoming space in an effort to help clients feel at home. I provide continuous support for an array of issues pertaining to adults. I believe the counseling relationship is the most important component to clients meeting their therapy goals.
![Photo of Michael Simon Zurawel, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/014415dc-cd2b-44eb-8300-034020037a80/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have found a purpose which is aimed at serving others by first providing them hope and letting them know they are not alone in whatever their struggle is. All suffering is common to man and there is comfort in this knowledge. Next I aim to provide practical tools and techniques to make changes that move the client towards their own directed goals. I seek to balance all that psychology has to offer a client on any given problem, while also integrating a consistent Christian worldview as we find this healthy balance in day to day living. Always moving and progressing towards improvement and growing in contentment and satisfaction.
I have found a purpose which is aimed at serving others by first providing them hope and letting them know they are not alone in whatever their struggle is. All suffering is common to man and there is comfort in this knowledge. Next I aim to provide practical tools and techniques to make changes that move the client towards their own directed goals. I seek to balance all that psychology has to offer a client on any given problem, while also integrating a consistent Christian worldview as we find this healthy balance in day to day living. Always moving and progressing towards improvement and growing in contentment and satisfaction.
![Photo of Jessica Elliot Stevens, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a7f474d-8d8b-4d9a-8fe9-ae765d6cd104/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Elliot Stevens
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
Hi! My name Is Jessica Stevens, but you can call me Niki. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. My approach to therapy is Rogerian, (Person-Centered) along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have 6 years of experience with children and adults in areas of depression, anxiety, anger management and children who also have struggles with emotional regulation and attention deficits. I have 6 years of experience with children and adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and anger management. I have 20 years total experience with children who struggle with emotional regulation and attention deficits.
Hi! My name Is Jessica Stevens, but you can call me Niki. I am a North Carolina Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. My approach to therapy is Rogerian, (Person-Centered) along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have 6 years of experience with children and adults in areas of depression, anxiety, anger management and children who also have struggles with emotional regulation and attention deficits. I have 6 years of experience with children and adults in areas of depression, anxiety, and anger management. I have 20 years total experience with children who struggle with emotional regulation and attention deficits.
![Photo of Lindy Warnack Kitchin - Lindy W Kitchin Counseling PLLC, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/510f0a43-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lindy W Kitchin Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
I believe in meeting every client where they are in life and to focus on strengths and abilities. Change and adapting to an identity are part of the growth process throughout life. I believe it is important to provide patients with knowledge, support and emotional growth during their time in therapy.
I believe in meeting every client where they are in life and to focus on strengths and abilities. Change and adapting to an identity are part of the growth process throughout life. I believe it is important to provide patients with knowledge, support and emotional growth during their time in therapy.
![Photo of Melissa Doerfer-Grace, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6642016-8fed-4d8a-a4df-431b5ef00fc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Doerfer-Grace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEdS, LCMHC, NCC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
Through great pain comes better awareness and understanding about ourselves and the world around us. My journey as a counselor began during my experience with war deployments, which inspired my search to find ways to help others who are hurting. After completing my Master's degrees in Couples and Family Counseling, I have worked extensively with the court system, with families in need, and with individuals of all ages. My other passion in life is speaking and learning more Spanish. I offer therapy sessions to adults, children, families, and couples. I am a certified hypnotherapist.
See more therapy options for Pittsboro
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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.