Gestalt Therapists in Hackensack, NJ
![Photo of Milton A Kaufman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4edff6a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Giselle Fontalvo, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a345e5a-521d-4bd7-82bb-c3e5923c48e3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Giselle Fontalvo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601 (Online Only)
I have extensive counseling experience working with clients ranging from toddlers to older adults, all seeking a place to be themselves. I offer an ideal space for clients who are looking for a supportive and empathetic environment to explore and address their personal challenges. I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties. Additionally, I offer support to students and families navigating the college and career process. My goal is to support you in finding yourself and discovering what works best for your life, taking the time you need in the process.
I have extensive counseling experience working with clients ranging from toddlers to older adults, all seeking a place to be themselves. I offer an ideal space for clients who are looking for a supportive and empathetic environment to explore and address their personal challenges. I have worked with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and relationship difficulties. Additionally, I offer support to students and families navigating the college and career process. My goal is to support you in finding yourself and discovering what works best for your life, taking the time you need in the process.
![Photo of Janon Wilson - Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45058c17-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC our ideal clients are those who are receptive to working together as a team. The clients do not have to love or like therapy but should in some small way be focused on wanting to get some relief for the issue. The ideal clients also is one who can be honest during the sessions and try to understand that therapy can be successful if time and work is put into it. Compass, Clinicians also love providing family therapy and have done so for many years. We are a diverse group of mental health clinicians from various backgrounds, with several years experience providing therapy.
At Compass Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC our ideal clients are those who are receptive to working together as a team. The clients do not have to love or like therapy but should in some small way be focused on wanting to get some relief for the issue. The ideal clients also is one who can be honest during the sessions and try to understand that therapy can be successful if time and work is put into it. Compass, Clinicians also love providing family therapy and have done so for many years. We are a diverse group of mental health clinicians from various backgrounds, with several years experience providing therapy.
![Photo of Claudia Cardoso De Oliveira, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5811b4e8-4acc-4685-9dbf-ef57c7f40f13/1/320x400.jpeg)
Claudia Cardoso De Oliveira
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Sometimes we can't find the words to work through our deceptions and inner turmoil making us feel trapped, alone, and going in circles. Allow me to invite you to a safe, protected space where we can be creative and play with dreams, fantasies, and words. I will offer you a sacred space where the mind, body, and soul connect and dive deep into the depths of the psyche. We can find meaning and understanding through profound inner exploration to co-create a greater sense of self for healing, and transformation.
Sometimes we can't find the words to work through our deceptions and inner turmoil making us feel trapped, alone, and going in circles. Allow me to invite you to a safe, protected space where we can be creative and play with dreams, fantasies, and words. I will offer you a sacred space where the mind, body, and soul connect and dive deep into the depths of the psyche. We can find meaning and understanding through profound inner exploration to co-create a greater sense of self for healing, and transformation.
![Photo of Annamaria Pallante, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40a4e4bf-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Annamaria Pallante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over 20 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, mood and behavioral disorders, and ADHD. I can help you find your way to a better and happier you. My services include therapy for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal, school or work related issues and career counseling. My treatment approach is CBT, Family Systems, mindfulness and solution-focused treatments.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with over 20 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, mood and behavioral disorders, and ADHD. I can help you find your way to a better and happier you. My services include therapy for anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal, school or work related issues and career counseling. My treatment approach is CBT, Family Systems, mindfulness and solution-focused treatments.
![Photo of Vanessa Gourdine - Specialized Therapy Associates, PsyD, APN-C, CFMP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d5fd534-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Specialized Therapy Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, APN-C, CFMP
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
Where special concerns deserve special care, Specialized Therapy Associates has been in operation since 1994 with a staff of psychologists, psychiatrists, and therapists in Hackensack, Ramsey, Short Hills, & Fort Lee. STA provides the full range of psychological services: individual, couples, family & group therapy. We also provide a full range of psychological testing services for all age ranges.STA offers specialized programs which includes but not limited to eating disorders, substance abuse, trauma, academic success, child and parenting. We are staffed with Board certified adult & child psychiatrists & psychiatric nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, licensed clinical alcohol & drug counselors & licensed professional counselors.
![Photo of Christine Meyer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1cf369f-efaf-4862-8c34-d57068681438/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life can present a wide array of challenges, from anxiety, to mood disorders, to trauma; all which require very specialized healing. Therapy is a personalized and integrative experience, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are seeking clarity on your past, support through a life transition, or coaching for a challenging family dynamic; I will work with you with compassion and guidance to meet your needs.
Life can present a wide array of challenges, from anxiety, to mood disorders, to trauma; all which require very specialized healing. Therapy is a personalized and integrative experience, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Whether you are seeking clarity on your past, support through a life transition, or coaching for a challenging family dynamic; I will work with you with compassion and guidance to meet your needs.
![Photo of Luisa Marquez, MEd, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7702497-e156-467d-a91a-b521b69048bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Luisa Marquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07602
The foundation of my work is based on empathy and open communication. For over 15 years, I've worked closely with families in crisis and in need of immediate intervention. I specialize in assisting children, adolescents, and adults with Anxiety, Depression, Selective Mutism, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Autism. Additionally, I also have experience in assisting victims of violence.
The foundation of my work is based on empathy and open communication. For over 15 years, I've worked closely with families in crisis and in need of immediate intervention. I specialize in assisting children, adolescents, and adults with Anxiety, Depression, Selective Mutism, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Autism. Additionally, I also have experience in assisting victims of violence.
![Photo of Richard Drobnick - Mars & Venus Counseling Center, LCSW, DCSW, CPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf14371-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Tele-counseling available - Hackensack, TEANECK, Paramus, Ramsey, ORADELL, Ridgewood, DENVILLE, Parsippany, MANHATTAN: Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Weekends available / Spanish-speaking / Most insurances welcomed / Full-service counseling for over 35 years.
Tele-counseling available - Hackensack, TEANECK, Paramus, Ramsey, ORADELL, Ridgewood, DENVILLE, Parsippany, MANHATTAN: Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Weekends available / Spanish-speaking / Most insurances welcomed / Full-service counseling for over 35 years.
![Photo of Teran Chartier - Redefining Counseling, LPC, ACS, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0c00651-fb65-42c8-ac3c-0ca7ae03af68/1/320x400.jpeg)
Redefining Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Therapy is weird. I get it. You are sharing your secrets with a stranger. The relationship between the therapist and the client is the most important aspect of therapy. I have worked with single mothers, couples, families, children/teenagers, and the LGBT community. Working since 2007, there is not much I have not seen. I treat my clients like I would want my family members to be treated, with respect, compassion, sincerity and honesty. I also believe therapy can be fun as well as constructive and valuable.
Therapy is weird. I get it. You are sharing your secrets with a stranger. The relationship between the therapist and the client is the most important aspect of therapy. I have worked with single mothers, couples, families, children/teenagers, and the LGBT community. Working since 2007, there is not much I have not seen. I treat my clients like I would want my family members to be treated, with respect, compassion, sincerity and honesty. I also believe therapy can be fun as well as constructive and valuable.
![Photo of Robert Galarowicz - Holistic Naturopathic Healing & Energy Psychology, PhD, ND](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fdf2e61-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do You Want Improvement In Your Emotional/Mental Issues and Change Habits in 1 to 3 Sessions? .. Want To Move Forward From The Past Quickly and Easily? .. Find out how, in just 1 to 3 sessions, you could be much better, healhier, happier and accomplishing your goals, thanks to Dr. Robert's Energy Psychology & Mindy/Body Therapies. Dr. Robert has already helped hundreds of people accomplish what they desire and can help you in a short amount of time! .... It doesn't matter if you have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, want to lose weight, stop smoking, etc, I can Help You!
Do You Want Improvement In Your Emotional/Mental Issues and Change Habits in 1 to 3 Sessions? .. Want To Move Forward From The Past Quickly and Easily? .. Find out how, in just 1 to 3 sessions, you could be much better, healhier, happier and accomplishing your goals, thanks to Dr. Robert's Energy Psychology & Mindy/Body Therapies. Dr. Robert has already helped hundreds of people accomplish what they desire and can help you in a short amount of time! .... It doesn't matter if you have trauma, PTSD, anxiety, want to lose weight, stop smoking, etc, I can Help You!
15 Second Videos
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist
Jessica Herrera
![Photo of Brittany Bur, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43ccbc8c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Bur
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Sometimes talking to a friend or family member is not enough; you need a professional who can be unbiased and support you through a difficult time. Thoughts and feelings can be overwhelming and they become even more powerful when they’re bottled up inside. I provide a safe, confidential, empathic space to listen. When you express your thoughts and feelings openly to me, I listen non-judgmentally and help you sort through life’s challenges. Together, we will tackle your issues and free you up for growth, more confidence, and self-awareness. I create an individualized treatment experience that's just as unique as you are.
Sometimes talking to a friend or family member is not enough; you need a professional who can be unbiased and support you through a difficult time. Thoughts and feelings can be overwhelming and they become even more powerful when they’re bottled up inside. I provide a safe, confidential, empathic space to listen. When you express your thoughts and feelings openly to me, I listen non-judgmentally and help you sort through life’s challenges. Together, we will tackle your issues and free you up for growth, more confidence, and self-awareness. I create an individualized treatment experience that's just as unique as you are.
![Photo of Imran Rasid - Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist, NLP , MD, PhD, AW, CHT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/494003c6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Imran Rasid-Depression and Anxiety Therapist
NLP , MD, PhD, AW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I am a depression and anxiety therapist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the needs of my patients and aims to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive and comfortable. Furthermore, I am committed to providing the best care possible for each of my patients and strive to create a healing and supportive environment. As a result, many of my patients have referred friends and family members to me, which is an additional testament to my excellence.
I am a depression and anxiety therapist in New Jersey. I am dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the needs of my patients and aims to create a therapeutic environment that is supportive and comfortable. Furthermore, I am committed to providing the best care possible for each of my patients and strive to create a healing and supportive environment. As a result, many of my patients have referred friends and family members to me, which is an additional testament to my excellence.
![Photo of Joslyn Camilo, LSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d87c815f-23a8-4165-a178-e9a862faf493/2/320x400.jpeg)
My treatment focuses on compassion and cultural awareness in the realm of mental health. With unwavering dedication, I extend my compassionate hand to guide you through life's intricate challenges. My heart is a sanctuary for fostering genuine connections, where empathy and understanding are the cornerstones of my therapeutic approach.
My treatment focuses on compassion and cultural awareness in the realm of mental health. With unwavering dedication, I extend my compassionate hand to guide you through life's intricate challenges. My heart is a sanctuary for fostering genuine connections, where empathy and understanding are the cornerstones of my therapeutic approach.
![Photo of Jason D Juxon-Smith, MA, NCC, LAC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/671c1a8d-dbac-49f2-a0dc-5d09411c7def/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jason D Juxon-Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, LAC
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601 (Online Only)
Feeling overwhelmed by strained family relationships and unresolved trauma? As a high-responsibility leader, these internal struggles and constant anxiety can be exhausting. You need guidance to heal family connections and reduce overthinking and anxiety. Imagine building healthier, supportive relationships with loved ones. My therapy sessions provide personalized strategies to alleviate stress and overthinking. Let’s work together to strengthen your family bonds and achieve mental peace.
Feeling overwhelmed by strained family relationships and unresolved trauma? As a high-responsibility leader, these internal struggles and constant anxiety can be exhausting. You need guidance to heal family connections and reduce overthinking and anxiety. Imagine building healthier, supportive relationships with loved ones. My therapy sessions provide personalized strategies to alleviate stress and overthinking. Let’s work together to strengthen your family bonds and achieve mental peace.
![Photo of Jessica Herrera - Jessica Herrera, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c0c9de5-f0b6-42aa-8723-34b5cdc01a16/2/320x400.png)
Jessica Herrera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Waitlist for new clients
As a family Therapist, I have the incredible privilege of joining you on your journey towards empowerment and self-discovery. Within the safe haven of Conscious Cove, I extend my support not only to children and adolescents but also to adults seeking positive change. In this sacred space, I strive to create a warm and nurturing environment, a sanctuary where you can tenderly confront the challenges that may be holding you back. Together, we will craft personalized treatment goals, fostering growth and resilience amidst life's complexities.
As a family Therapist, I have the incredible privilege of joining you on your journey towards empowerment and self-discovery. Within the safe haven of Conscious Cove, I extend my support not only to children and adolescents but also to adults seeking positive change. In this sacred space, I strive to create a warm and nurturing environment, a sanctuary where you can tenderly confront the challenges that may be holding you back. Together, we will craft personalized treatment goals, fostering growth and resilience amidst life's complexities.
![Photo of Pia Jacangelo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f85a1c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Pia Jacangelo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I have a generic private practice, but specialize in couple therapy and eating disorders. I also treat self-esteem issues, relationship issues, divorce, depression and anxiety. My experience spans over 35 years. I am passionate about what I do and eager to help those who want to find ''their highest potential!" I enjoy working with individuals from 16-80! Come take a leap into the world of emotional growth...
I have a generic private practice, but specialize in couple therapy and eating disorders. I also treat self-esteem issues, relationship issues, divorce, depression and anxiety. My experience spans over 35 years. I am passionate about what I do and eager to help those who want to find ''their highest potential!" I enjoy working with individuals from 16-80! Come take a leap into the world of emotional growth...
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Andriy Kostynyuk, LMHC, LPC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7314ea4c-4a3f-442e-8be9-63c785cd7f51/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, gestalt and existential therapy, Christian counseling .
My main goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment for my clients.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), mindfulness, gestalt and existential therapy, Christian counseling .
My main goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment for my clients.
![Photo of Rick Manista, PsyD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fafb568c-d839-433f-b724-bad8291e7512/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Ashley C Agosto, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a691fb8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley C Agosto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Teaneck, NJ 07666 (Online Only)
Every person has their own journey and their own story to tell, what is yours? Do you feel overwhelmed by life stressors, or unhappy? It is my goal to help you find the strength, determination and serenity to soar beyond your expectations. I believe clients need to feel safe, supported and respected in order to develop a therapeutic relationship. My goal is to help you find the right approach that personally suits you. I have years of experience providing treatment to address, depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship issues.
Every person has their own journey and their own story to tell, what is yours? Do you feel overwhelmed by life stressors, or unhappy? It is my goal to help you find the strength, determination and serenity to soar beyond your expectations. I believe clients need to feel safe, supported and respected in order to develop a therapeutic relationship. My goal is to help you find the right approach that personally suits you. I have years of experience providing treatment to address, depression, anxiety, stress, and relationship issues.
See more therapy options for Hackensack
Nearby Gestalt Therapists Searches for Hackensack
- Bergenfield
- Clifton
- Edgewater
- Englewood
- Fair Lawn
- Fort Lee
- Oradell
- Paramus
- Paterson
- Saddle Brook
- Teaneck
- Tenafly
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.