Gestalt Therapists in Edgewater, NJ

Photo of Diane Sosa, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Sosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Edgewater, NJ 07020  (Online Only)
I am a Psychotherapist with a passion for helping people live well! I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adult and adults s with a wide variety of behavioral, emotional and mental health challenges. I am so thrilled to help you on your journey with therapy. As your therapist, I focus on providing a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space to talk about the challenges you would like to process. Whether you're dealing with stressors from work, a recent break up, peer conflicts, anxiety from your busy schedule or difficulties with a past traumatic experience.
I am a Psychotherapist with a passion for helping people live well! I have experience working with children, adolescents, young adult and adults s with a wide variety of behavioral, emotional and mental health challenges. I am so thrilled to help you on your journey with therapy. As your therapist, I focus on providing a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space to talk about the challenges you would like to process. Whether you're dealing with stressors from work, a recent break up, peer conflicts, anxiety from your busy schedule or difficulties with a past traumatic experience.
(551) 231-7847 View (551) 231-7847
Photo of Barbara Altman, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Altman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Edgewater, NJ 07020  (Online Only)
We can't can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending. Welcome to my Psychology Today profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Couples Therapist in private practice in Edgewater, New Jersey. I have over 30 years of counseling experience helping adults, couples and families who are struggling through difficult life situations and challenging relationships.
We can't can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending. Welcome to my Psychology Today profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Couples Therapist in private practice in Edgewater, New Jersey. I have over 30 years of counseling experience helping adults, couples and families who are struggling through difficult life situations and challenging relationships.
(201) 292-5180 View (201) 292-5180
Photo of Davida Joy Rabinowitz, LCSW, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Davida Joy Rabinowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Edgewater, NJ 07020
Welcome! I am an experienced licensed Clinical social worker in both NJ and NY and a Rutgers University graduate. In my practice, we address issues such as anxiety/stress, sadness , depression, relationship issues, mens' issues , vocational issues, and motivational issues . I am a generalist and take a solution focused approach . I also believe in linking your past to your present, so you can have a solid future.
Welcome! I am an experienced licensed Clinical social worker in both NJ and NY and a Rutgers University graduate. In my practice, we address issues such as anxiety/stress, sadness , depression, relationship issues, mens' issues , vocational issues, and motivational issues . I am a generalist and take a solution focused approach . I also believe in linking your past to your present, so you can have a solid future.
(973) 671-1199 View (973) 671-1199
Photo of Mizuho 'miho' Kanazawa, MA, LCAT, LPC
Mizuho 'miho' Kanazawa
Creative Arts Therapist, MA, LCAT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edgewater, NJ 07020
I am dedicated to working with clients whose personality and life experience were shaped by more than one culture: You might be an international student or in your 20's or 30's navigating anxiety. You might have been raised by 1st generation Asian parents or one and half or 2nd generation immigrants. You might be struggling in a relationship where you and your partner come from different cultural backgrounds not feeling understood. You are in the relationship but you both feel alone in the relationship. I love to help. I work with clients individually and as couples.
I am dedicated to working with clients whose personality and life experience were shaped by more than one culture: You might be an international student or in your 20's or 30's navigating anxiety. You might have been raised by 1st generation Asian parents or one and half or 2nd generation immigrants. You might be struggling in a relationship where you and your partner come from different cultural backgrounds not feeling understood. You are in the relationship but you both feel alone in the relationship. I love to help. I work with clients individually and as couples.
(201) 374-0783 View (201) 374-0783
Photo of Jillian Holguin - Jillian Holguin, LCSW, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jillian Holguin, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, NJ 07020  (Online Only)
My ideal client would be a client looking for a well-rounded, non-judgmental, real, and down to earth female therapist that is fully engaged and committed to their sessions as a sounding board. I like to take a collaborative approach with my clients to provide objective guidance assisting with identifying their needs- conducive towards their goals that they want to achieve for themselves. I enjoy channelling positive energy in session to transfer momentum for my client to see the best version -they see in themselves. That’s what I can best serve my clients who are looking to work off that structure to best meet their needs.
My ideal client would be a client looking for a well-rounded, non-judgmental, real, and down to earth female therapist that is fully engaged and committed to their sessions as a sounding board. I like to take a collaborative approach with my clients to provide objective guidance assisting with identifying their needs- conducive towards their goals that they want to achieve for themselves. I enjoy channelling positive energy in session to transfer momentum for my client to see the best version -they see in themselves. That’s what I can best serve my clients who are looking to work off that structure to best meet their needs.
(201) 778-7744 View (201) 778-7744
Photo of Prof. Robert E. Douglas II, MACLP, LAMFT, LAPC, CLC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Prof. Robert E. Douglas II
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MACLP, LAMFT, LAPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Edgewater, NJ 07020
Robert takes the approach that all individuals and family systems are unique and should create a “space” that encompasses all of the salient components in their lives. Life has peaks and valleys and there is no one size fits all approach to therapy. Creating a safe, respectful therapeutic environment is his goal. He takes and eclectic approach and individualizes the interventions and treatment plans for the clients and families needs. He works with clients regarding family satisfaction, couples’ satisfaction, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and other psychological impairing issues.
Robert takes the approach that all individuals and family systems are unique and should create a “space” that encompasses all of the salient components in their lives. Life has peaks and valleys and there is no one size fits all approach to therapy. Creating a safe, respectful therapeutic environment is his goal. He takes and eclectic approach and individualizes the interventions and treatment plans for the clients and families needs. He works with clients regarding family satisfaction, couples’ satisfaction, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and other psychological impairing issues.
(201) 383-6174 View (201) 383-6174
Photo of D'Amani Bowman, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor
D'Amani Bowman
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edgewater, NJ 07020
Do you find yourself minimizing or gaslighting your feelings and experiences to make peace in relationships? Are you struggling because you feel unheard? Are you tired of unrealistic expectations of others? Seeking counseling services can be an overwhelming experience. Especially if this is your first time, or if you haven't had the best experiences in therapy. What I can offer is a space where you are safe to be your authentic self, without judgment. Our work together will consist of putting you back into the driver seat of your own life and achieving the goals that you set for yourself.
Do you find yourself minimizing or gaslighting your feelings and experiences to make peace in relationships? Are you struggling because you feel unheard? Are you tired of unrealistic expectations of others? Seeking counseling services can be an overwhelming experience. Especially if this is your first time, or if you haven't had the best experiences in therapy. What I can offer is a space where you are safe to be your authentic self, without judgment. Our work together will consist of putting you back into the driver seat of your own life and achieving the goals that you set for yourself.
(856) 263-2139 View (856) 263-2139

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sharon Livingston, PhD, MA
Sharon Livingston
PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Alpine, NJ 07620
My eclectic approach draws on my experiences treatment, including, NLP, Client Centered Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Hypnosis, Gestalt Therapy.
My ideal client is mid 30's to early 60's. These are people in life transitions, whether career, relationship or soul searching. Probably experiencing stress and anxiety or self doubt. Want to follow their hearts, interests and talents so that they can fulfill themselves in life, love, work and relationships. They want to modify or completely change careers, friends or leave an unrewarding relationship. They're looking for help in growing beyond an impasse while wanting to develop to the next level in their lives. They need compassion and clear but kind guidance to move forward.
My eclectic approach draws on my experiences treatment, including, NLP, Client Centered Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Hypnosis, Gestalt Therapy.
My ideal client is mid 30's to early 60's. These are people in life transitions, whether career, relationship or soul searching. Probably experiencing stress and anxiety or self doubt. Want to follow their hearts, interests and talents so that they can fulfill themselves in life, love, work and relationships. They want to modify or completely change careers, friends or leave an unrewarding relationship. They're looking for help in growing beyond an impasse while wanting to develop to the next level in their lives. They need compassion and clear but kind guidance to move forward.
(201) 500-1664 View (201) 500-1664
Photo of Virginia C Bailey, MSMFT, LPC, CGT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia C Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSMFT, LPC, CGT
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
If you are ready for change, and committed to reaching out for it, I can help you accomplish it! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, working with Children, Adolescents, Individuals, Couples and Families. I am passionate in helping you create the vibrant and wholesome life you long for. My style is warm, accepting and caring, while holding the utmost belief in your potential to heal from your wounds and create a full, healthy and rewarding life. My specialty is Gestalt Therapy, an experiential modality that helps us go deeply into the core issues, heal hurts and access the most resourceful aspects of Yourself.
If you are ready for change, and committed to reaching out for it, I can help you accomplish it! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, working with Children, Adolescents, Individuals, Couples and Families. I am passionate in helping you create the vibrant and wholesome life you long for. My style is warm, accepting and caring, while holding the utmost belief in your potential to heal from your wounds and create a full, healthy and rewarding life. My specialty is Gestalt Therapy, an experiential modality that helps us go deeply into the core issues, heal hurts and access the most resourceful aspects of Yourself.
(551) 999-6127 View (551) 999-6127
Photo of Matthew Francisco, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Francisco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Elmwood Park, NJ 07407  (Online Only)
I also have a three year speciality training in Gestalt Therapy as a means to integrate a client's thoughts, feelings, emotions, relationships, and environment into a fully functioning whole.
Although I obtained a significant amount of knowledge as a therapeutic provider and underwent professional training, I myself do not claim to be an expert on my clients. I ultimately view clients as the true experts on themselves and I, as the therapist, am their creative partner in becoming the “best” version of themselves. Not only do I believe clients are the experts on themselves, but I also believe that clients are the heroes of their own stories. During the course of the journey, the hero often has to integrate parts of themselves and the world that surrounds them to become an agent of better change.
I also have a three year speciality training in Gestalt Therapy as a means to integrate a client's thoughts, feelings, emotions, relationships, and environment into a fully functioning whole.
Although I obtained a significant amount of knowledge as a therapeutic provider and underwent professional training, I myself do not claim to be an expert on my clients. I ultimately view clients as the true experts on themselves and I, as the therapist, am their creative partner in becoming the “best” version of themselves. Not only do I believe clients are the experts on themselves, but I also believe that clients are the heroes of their own stories. During the course of the journey, the hero often has to integrate parts of themselves and the world that surrounds them to become an agent of better change.
View
Photo of Milton A Kaufman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Milton A Kaufman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I treat clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, marital/relationship issues, stage of life issues, stress reduction issues, behavioral issues, mood disorders, career issues, self-esteem issues, anger management issues, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sexual identity issues, attachment issues, and self-harm issues. I have extensive experience with family therapy and couples therapy. I utilize methods that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and IMAGO Therapy.
I treat clients with anxiety, depression, OCD, marital/relationship issues, stage of life issues, stress reduction issues, behavioral issues, mood disorders, career issues, self-esteem issues, anger management issues, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, sexual identity issues, attachment issues, and self-harm issues. I have extensive experience with family therapy and couples therapy. I utilize methods that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, and IMAGO Therapy.
(754) 227-2082 View (754) 227-2082
Photo of Rick Manista, PsyD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rick Manista
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saddle Brook, NJ 07663  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a Gestalt therapist, my style is experiential focusing on the therapeutic relationship.
Many of my clients come to me after experiencing constant judgement and shame from their world. This becomes internalized and they often feel stuck from negative self-talk, anxiety or low self-esteem. My clients are not looking for ways to improve a symptom, but are looking to get in touch with their strengths and utilize parts of themselves that were lost. My clients are looking for a calm, nurturing environment where they can explore these issues in a playful manner.
As a Gestalt therapist, my style is experiential focusing on the therapeutic relationship.
Many of my clients come to me after experiencing constant judgement and shame from their world. This becomes internalized and they often feel stuck from negative self-talk, anxiety or low self-esteem. My clients are not looking for ways to improve a symptom, but are looking to get in touch with their strengths and utilize parts of themselves that were lost. My clients are looking for a calm, nurturing environment where they can explore these issues in a playful manner.
(973) 834-7241 View (973) 834-7241
Photo of Melissa Rosen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666  (Online Only)
I'm also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Psychodrama, Gestalt and Focusing.
“This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.” I strive to create a space where healing occurs - a place where you can sit with difficult thoughts, emotions and behaviors, and develop the tools to transform them. My style is warm and supportive, creating an environment that fosters self-acceptance. I believe in partnering with you to help you unlock blocks to growth and change.
I'm also trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Psychodrama, Gestalt and Focusing.
“This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.” I strive to create a space where healing occurs - a place where you can sit with difficult thoughts, emotions and behaviors, and develop the tools to transform them. My style is warm and supportive, creating an environment that fosters self-acceptance. I believe in partnering with you to help you unlock blocks to growth and change.
(859) 493-8485 View (859) 493-8485
Photo of Natalya Fryazin, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalya Fryazin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West New York, NJ 07093
With my extensive training in Gestalt Therapy, I blend this approach with concrete and result-proven strategies from cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and mindfulness therapies.
I strongly believe in the power of therapy. I am convinced that the quality of one’s life can be drastically improved even in the worst cases of mental health disorders. I speculate that if only people knew how tremendously their lives could be improved, they would not hesitate a single second and would find assistance right away.
With my extensive training in Gestalt Therapy, I blend this approach with concrete and result-proven strategies from cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and mindfulness therapies.
I strongly believe in the power of therapy. I am convinced that the quality of one’s life can be drastically improved even in the worst cases of mental health disorders. I speculate that if only people knew how tremendously their lives could be improved, they would not hesitate a single second and would find assistance right away.
(973) 355-7842 View (973) 355-7842
Photo of Jackie Uveges, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackie Uveges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07302
I have recently completed a three-year post-graduate Gestalt therapy training program and focus on being experiential, relational, present-focused, and holistic.
My goal is to support and empower you on your journey towards increased connection with your body, your mind, and with others. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns as well as specializing in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. I strongly believe in meeting clients where they are with a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I view clients as the experts of their own lives and believe that the therapeutic process should be collaborative.
I have recently completed a three-year post-graduate Gestalt therapy training program and focus on being experiential, relational, present-focused, and holistic.
My goal is to support and empower you on your journey towards increased connection with your body, your mind, and with others. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns as well as specializing in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. I strongly believe in meeting clients where they are with a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I view clients as the experts of their own lives and believe that the therapeutic process should be collaborative.
(201) 292-0813 View (201) 292-0813
Photo of Yuliya Golubev, MA, LMHC, LPC, CASAC-2, Counselor
Yuliya Golubev
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, CASAC-2
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07302
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize elements of the relational approach, Gestalt therapy, and some aspects of CBT, which are tailored to your unique needs.
You are tired of thinking about the worst-case scenarios when it comes to your work and current/future relationships. You are tired of listening to the never-ending dialogue of your inner critic that you are not good enough to keep you stuck. You are tired of accommodating others but not putting yourself first without tremendous guilt or feeling selfish. You want to feel empowered, gain confidence, and access your resilience. It’s time to get joy and excitement back into your life. It's time to start showing up for yourself!
I utilize elements of the relational approach, Gestalt therapy, and some aspects of CBT, which are tailored to your unique needs.
You are tired of thinking about the worst-case scenarios when it comes to your work and current/future relationships. You are tired of listening to the never-ending dialogue of your inner critic that you are not good enough to keep you stuck. You are tired of accommodating others but not putting yourself first without tremendous guilt or feeling selfish. You want to feel empowered, gain confidence, and access your resilience. It’s time to get joy and excitement back into your life. It's time to start showing up for yourself!
(718) 866-3872 View (718) 866-3872
Photo of Mirabel Xing, LMSW
Mirabel Xing
Licensed Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07305  (Online Only)
My style is relational, strength-focused, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed, influenced by psychodynamic theories, existential psychotherapy, Gestalt psychotherapy, IFS, and DBT.
As an immigrant, Third Culture Kid (TCK), and former international student, I recognise that each person's identity and experiences are nuanced and multilayered. My past careers as a journalist and teacher have shown me that while our narratives are unique and powerful, we all share a universal desire for self-understanding, insight into the human experience, meaningful connections, and emotional support. In our increasingly demanding and isolating world, where jobs are stressful and family and friends are often scattered, these needs become even more profound.
My style is relational, strength-focused, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed, influenced by psychodynamic theories, existential psychotherapy, Gestalt psychotherapy, IFS, and DBT.
As an immigrant, Third Culture Kid (TCK), and former international student, I recognise that each person's identity and experiences are nuanced and multilayered. My past careers as a journalist and teacher have shown me that while our narratives are unique and powerful, we all share a universal desire for self-understanding, insight into the human experience, meaningful connections, and emotional support. In our increasingly demanding and isolating world, where jobs are stressful and family and friends are often scattered, these needs become even more profound.
(929) 600-7537 View (929) 600-7537
Photo of Andrey Rusetskiy - Insight.inc, MS, LMSW
Insight.inc
MS, LMSW
Verified Verified
Guttenberg, NJ 07093  (Online Only)
In treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, relationship issues and other problems, I use psychodynamic approach, CBT, Transactional Analysis,Existential and Gestalt therapy approaches.
During my 35 years of professional experience in the field of psychology i worked with the small groups under extreme conditions in the expeditions, performed forensic psychological services in Russian prisons and research in the airport, provided counseling services in family psychology and maladaptation. In America my major focus for the past 15 years is on on individual and couple therapy
In treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, relationship issues and other problems, I use psychodynamic approach, CBT, Transactional Analysis,Existential and Gestalt therapy approaches.
During my 35 years of professional experience in the field of psychology i worked with the small groups under extreme conditions in the expeditions, performed forensic psychological services in Russian prisons and research in the airport, provided counseling services in family psychology and maladaptation. In America my major focus for the past 15 years is on on individual and couple therapy
(732) 333-8630 View (732) 333-8630
Photo of Jackie Uveges, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackie Uveges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07302
I am currently in a three-year post-graduate Gestalt therapy training program and focus on being experiential, relational, present-focused, and holistic.
My goal is to support and empower you on your journey towards increased connection with your body, your mind, and with others. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns as well as specializing in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. I strongly believe in meeting clients where they are with a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I view clients as the experts of their own lives and believe that the therapeutic process should be collaborative.
I am currently in a three-year post-graduate Gestalt therapy training program and focus on being experiential, relational, present-focused, and holistic.
My goal is to support and empower you on your journey towards increased connection with your body, your mind, and with others. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns as well as specializing in treating symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorders. I strongly believe in meeting clients where they are with a non-judgmental and affirming approach. I view clients as the experts of their own lives and believe that the therapeutic process should be collaborative.
(201) 775-4671 View (201) 775-4671
Photo of Dylan West, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dylan West
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030
The majority of my post-graduate psychotherapy training is in the field of Gestalt therapy and so I emphasize present moment awareness.
Finding the right therapist can be a tough and even daunting experience. It's difficult to tell if a therapist is right for you based simply on a blurb and a photo. I don't claim to know that we'll be a perfect fit but if I believe I can help you, I'll tell you. If not, I'll refer you to someone who I think can. I regard myself as a warm and compassionate therapist who is supportive as well as direct and challenging when required. I am passionate about my work and find it fulfilling and energizing.
The majority of my post-graduate psychotherapy training is in the field of Gestalt therapy and so I emphasize present moment awareness.
Finding the right therapist can be a tough and even daunting experience. It's difficult to tell if a therapist is right for you based simply on a blurb and a photo. I don't claim to know that we'll be a perfect fit but if I believe I can help you, I'll tell you. If not, I'll refer you to someone who I think can. I regard myself as a warm and compassionate therapist who is supportive as well as direct and challenging when required. I am passionate about my work and find it fulfilling and energizing.
(917) 725-6349 View (917) 725-6349

See more therapy options for Edgewater

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.