Gestalt Therapists in Union City, NJ
![Photo of Jackie Uveges, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9636fce-c681-438e-bb6f-6c0293904c5a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jackie Uveges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Union City, NJ 07087
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.
![Photo of Natalya Fryazin, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58e673fa-2fa2-44dc-b979-78aca512a749/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalya Fryazin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Union City, NJ 07087
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.
![Photo of Michelle S Paulino, MA/EdS, LPC, NCC, NACC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abec7e81-ec1b-4755-801b-3cc2673f8147/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle S Paulino
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA/EdS, LPC, NCC, NACC
Verified Verified
Union City, NJ 07087 (Online Only)
I graduated with a Masters in Professional Counseling/ Education Specialist (Ed. S.) degree from Seton Hall University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of New Jersey. I also am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Christian Counselor through the National Association of Christian Counselors (NACC). I am bilingual and have experience in working with Spanish-speaking clients and families. I also have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults facing different challenges in life, such as: anxiety, depression, anger, trauma and more.
I graduated with a Masters in Professional Counseling/ Education Specialist (Ed. S.) degree from Seton Hall University. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of New Jersey. I also am a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Certified Christian Counselor through the National Association of Christian Counselors (NACC). I am bilingual and have experience in working with Spanish-speaking clients and families. I also have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults facing different challenges in life, such as: anxiety, depression, anger, trauma and more.
![Photo of Claudia Ceron, MA, LAC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82c5f29c-6cab-43c6-8f55-fbfa563a0c30/2/320x400.png)
Muchas veces nuestra vida está consumida por miedos e incertidumbres que no logramos controlar. Hay siempre una esperanza y tenemos la capacidad de cambiar y vivir mejor a través de la terapia. Nuestra misión en North Wellness Jersey Center es ayudarte a reencontrar tus fortalezas y ambiciones para que transformes tu vida de una manera más feliz y saludable. Vivir bien, vivir felices es algo a lo que todos aspiramos y todos podemos alcanzarlo. Permitenos ayudarte en tu camino a tu re-encuentro personal. Nuestro empático y dedicado equipo de terapeutas te ayudará con cualquier problema de salud mental. Llamanos para una consulta.
Muchas veces nuestra vida está consumida por miedos e incertidumbres que no logramos controlar. Hay siempre una esperanza y tenemos la capacidad de cambiar y vivir mejor a través de la terapia. Nuestra misión en North Wellness Jersey Center es ayudarte a reencontrar tus fortalezas y ambiciones para que transformes tu vida de una manera más feliz y saludable. Vivir bien, vivir felices es algo a lo que todos aspiramos y todos podemos alcanzarlo. Permitenos ayudarte en tu camino a tu re-encuentro personal. Nuestro empático y dedicado equipo de terapeutas te ayudará con cualquier problema de salud mental. Llamanos para una consulta.
![Photo of Nancy Andino, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/298073db-ccda-4ab5-9e0c-e154fdee82c5/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy Andino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Union City, NJ 07087 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I provide an honest and holistic service, tailored to your needs. My goal is to assist you with managing symptoms, clearly understanding your feelings and thoughts individually and in a group setting; which directly influence important life changing decisions as well as family and intimate relationships. The flexibility that I offer in my approach, guides you to focus on your ability to make changes as you learn to use your strength and coping skills to achieve your goals. I utilize different therapy styles such as Gestalt, EMDR, The Daring Way and CBT, that I tailor to your specific needs.
I provide an honest and holistic service, tailored to your needs. My goal is to assist you with managing symptoms, clearly understanding your feelings and thoughts individually and in a group setting; which directly influence important life changing decisions as well as family and intimate relationships. The flexibility that I offer in my approach, guides you to focus on your ability to make changes as you learn to use your strength and coping skills to achieve your goals. I utilize different therapy styles such as Gestalt, EMDR, The Daring Way and CBT, that I tailor to your specific needs.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dylan West, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4617b422-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Abraham Sharkas, MS, LAC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e9429540-063c-4550-a589-af7772fb6333/1/320x400.jpeg)
My integrative approach draws from Gestalt Therapy, Positive Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Reichian therapy and other evidence-based practices, as well as incorporating insights from diverse philosophical traditions, Islamic psychology and Sufism.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, or seeking personal growth? As a therapist of Jordanian-Circassian descent with a family lineage of refugees, I understand the challenges of navigating cultural identity and life transitions. I offer holistic, culturally-informed therapy for individuals and couples, integrating PsychoSpiritual and Somatic approaches. If you're grappling with anxiety, relationships, or trauma, I provide a safe space to explore your inner world and pursue deep healing. Together, we'll align mind, body, and spirit as you journey towards a more authentic, fulfilling life.
My integrative approach draws from Gestalt Therapy, Positive Psychology, Internal Family Systems, Reichian therapy and other evidence-based practices, as well as incorporating insights from diverse philosophical traditions, Islamic psychology and Sufism.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, or seeking personal growth? As a therapist of Jordanian-Circassian descent with a family lineage of refugees, I understand the challenges of navigating cultural identity and life transitions. I offer holistic, culturally-informed therapy for individuals and couples, integrating PsychoSpiritual and Somatic approaches. If you're grappling with anxiety, relationships, or trauma, I provide a safe space to explore your inner world and pursue deep healing. Together, we'll align mind, body, and spirit as you journey towards a more authentic, fulfilling life.
![Photo of Wendy Alley, MPS, LPC, CHHC, AADP, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1be94647-4266-41a1-bdc2-f78ca622b75b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy Alley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, LPC, CHHC, AADP, SAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030 (Online Only)
I am experienced in traditional western medicine, expressive therapies, gestalt, and holistic approaches.
Have you been trying to make a change, but feeling stuck? Maybe that job you're in is no longer inspiring, your relationship is no longer fulfilling, or there's a behavior or a habit you just wish you could stop. Trying to make these kinds of changes alone is frustrating, and often leaves us spinning our wheels, but stuck in that same place we know so well. If you sometimes find yourself overthinking, repeating old patterns, and/or getting caught up in self-criticism, you're not alone! Having a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental, skilled therapist can help you remember your inherent strengths, and regain the balance you seek.
I am experienced in traditional western medicine, expressive therapies, gestalt, and holistic approaches.
Have you been trying to make a change, but feeling stuck? Maybe that job you're in is no longer inspiring, your relationship is no longer fulfilling, or there's a behavior or a habit you just wish you could stop. Trying to make these kinds of changes alone is frustrating, and often leaves us spinning our wheels, but stuck in that same place we know so well. If you sometimes find yourself overthinking, repeating old patterns, and/or getting caught up in self-criticism, you're not alone! Having a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental, skilled therapist can help you remember your inherent strengths, and regain the balance you seek.
![Photo of Andrey Rusetskiy - Insight.inc, MS, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf576e9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
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
![Photo of Jackie Uveges, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89f3be23-26b4-49a2-a749-fe5834bcb565/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lee Zevy, LCSW, CIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42c1500f-4adb-4943-b35c-a9e7faf72845/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gestalt Therapy is a holistic experiential therapy that works relationally to build awareness and growth.
If you are tired of talking without a response and have goals in mind then relational psychotherapy will work for you.This type of therapy works well If you feel isolated, depressed, unable to reach goals, date, find or keep relationships. I am a Gestalt Therapist with additional training in DBT (for problems with emotion regulation), LGBTQ concerns and Integral Coaching. These are powerful tools for change. If you want to dig out of the past, feel alive in the present and be able to plan for the future. Call me.
Gestalt Therapy is a holistic experiential therapy that works relationally to build awareness and growth.
If you are tired of talking without a response and have goals in mind then relational psychotherapy will work for you.This type of therapy works well If you feel isolated, depressed, unable to reach goals, date, find or keep relationships. I am a Gestalt Therapist with additional training in DBT (for problems with emotion regulation), LGBTQ concerns and Integral Coaching. These are powerful tools for change. If you want to dig out of the past, feel alive in the present and be able to plan for the future. Call me.
![Photo of Suruchi Saini, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9e4e6d6a-6689-4da8-95bb-857a1e90dbbb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Suruchi Saini
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Counselor & TeleMental Health Provider. I am here to help & empower you to safely get you through challenges! Are your relationships, personal/professional issues causing stress, anxiety, unexplained sadness, self-doubt, restlessness, impulsiveness & feelings of hopelessness? Do you feel that you need to change these uncomfortable feelings/behaviors? Let's work together. I see you as an expert on your own life, and offer my expertise to achieve your goals to make positive & lasting changes. I will actively support & guide you to explore the obstacles you face & the old thought/behavioral patterns that undermine your happiness.
I am a Board Certified Counselor & TeleMental Health Provider. I am here to help & empower you to safely get you through challenges! Are your relationships, personal/professional issues causing stress, anxiety, unexplained sadness, self-doubt, restlessness, impulsiveness & feelings of hopelessness? Do you feel that you need to change these uncomfortable feelings/behaviors? Let's work together. I see you as an expert on your own life, and offer my expertise to achieve your goals to make positive & lasting changes. I will actively support & guide you to explore the obstacles you face & the old thought/behavioral patterns that undermine your happiness.
![Photo of Cindy Caneja, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce1997a5-1624-4afb-8b53-a9f2024ba25c/11/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy Caneja
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Hi, we can create a secure, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space for you to strengthen your relationship with yourself and others. I give plenty of feedback in a gentle, and authentic manner.
Hi, we can create a secure, nonjudgmental, and compassionate space for you to strengthen your relationship with yourself and others. I give plenty of feedback in a gentle, and authentic manner.
![Photo of Zoe Mittman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/197cbb18-b619-4cf6-83ce-82ef9f462e13/1/320x400.jpeg)
You are a young adult navigating life’s challenges. From the excitement of new opportunities to the grief of past relationships and experiences, you are overwhelmed with feelings. You are searching for a healthy balance between your responsibilities and self-care, but you’re uncertain where to begin. The desire to make change, yet the struggle to do so is discouraging. As a young adult myself, I understand how you’re feeling. I’m here to offer you a safe space, where you will gain insight, learn healthy coping skills, and ultimately work towards your goals.
You are a young adult navigating life’s challenges. From the excitement of new opportunities to the grief of past relationships and experiences, you are overwhelmed with feelings. You are searching for a healthy balance between your responsibilities and self-care, but you’re uncertain where to begin. The desire to make change, yet the struggle to do so is discouraging. As a young adult myself, I understand how you’re feeling. I’m here to offer you a safe space, where you will gain insight, learn healthy coping skills, and ultimately work towards your goals.
![Photo of Sally Attia, LCSW, EMDR, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2fd50a9-8cb5-4320-af27-8ee22fb6b9a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sally Attia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07306 (Online Only)
Hello there brave one! My diverse background and experience enables me to be very comfortable counseling different groups of people. My passion is to help you restore your inner peace with your thoughts and feelings. I aim to strengthen you by building awareness and resiliency as you face life’s challenges. Providing meaningful and effective clinical interventions/treatments through individual and/ or group therapy will transform lives, empower, and instill hope in the lives of each individual.
Hello there brave one! My diverse background and experience enables me to be very comfortable counseling different groups of people. My passion is to help you restore your inner peace with your thoughts and feelings. I aim to strengthen you by building awareness and resiliency as you face life’s challenges. Providing meaningful and effective clinical interventions/treatments through individual and/ or group therapy will transform lives, empower, and instill hope in the lives of each individual.
![Photo of Yara Goldstein, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e92f7ec6-99e7-44e1-b0e6-4ebb6d077719/4/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and welcome to my practice. Asking for help is not easy, so I am so glad you are here! Therapists are not a one size fits all and finding the right fit for you, your family, and/or your child is so important for therapy to be successful. My approach with clients is always collaborative, genuine and warm, and I use both empathy and humor. I am client-centered, strengths based, and solutions focused. I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities to correspond with the needs of each individual client, meeting them where they are at.
Hello and welcome to my practice. Asking for help is not easy, so I am so glad you are here! Therapists are not a one size fits all and finding the right fit for you, your family, and/or your child is so important for therapy to be successful. My approach with clients is always collaborative, genuine and warm, and I use both empathy and humor. I am client-centered, strengths based, and solutions focused. I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities to correspond with the needs of each individual client, meeting them where they are at.
![Photo of Shelley Orren-King, LCSW, R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c8f068d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you find your life more challenging than joyful? Has depression and/or anxiety shown up more and more and you are enjoying life less and less? I am a seasoned psychotherapist who can get you back on track and guide you to find the life you want and have dreamed about. For 37 years I have supported many people with problems so challenging, they sometimes wanted to give up….…. Our therapy sessions created a pathway to take their problems and turn them into opportunities. I would like to support you, like them, to find your pathway to live a productive, balanced and joyful life, with family, friends and in your work space.
Do you find your life more challenging than joyful? Has depression and/or anxiety shown up more and more and you are enjoying life less and less? I am a seasoned psychotherapist who can get you back on track and guide you to find the life you want and have dreamed about. For 37 years I have supported many people with problems so challenging, they sometimes wanted to give up….…. Our therapy sessions created a pathway to take their problems and turn them into opportunities. I would like to support you, like them, to find your pathway to live a productive, balanced and joyful life, with family, friends and in your work space.
![Photo of Tricia-Leigh Best - Intimacy Institute, LLC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/151b3ea2-277b-4096-9ca8-f0676bbd2ca3/3/320x400.jpeg)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a relationship expert specializing in individual and couples therapy. I've helped numerous couples reconnect, build healthy marriages and work through the challenges of divorce and finding love again. At the core of my work is an integrative approach that helps women and men accept themselves more and connect to others in meaningful ways. My experience in private practice and community mental health settings provides individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues with a collaborative approach and multiple clinicians on staff with many specialties.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am a relationship expert specializing in individual and couples therapy. I've helped numerous couples reconnect, build healthy marriages and work through the challenges of divorce and finding love again. At the core of my work is an integrative approach that helps women and men accept themselves more and connect to others in meaningful ways. My experience in private practice and community mental health settings provides individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues with a collaborative approach and multiple clinicians on staff with many specialties.
![Photo of Diane Sosa, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498f6b09-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Sosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Hoboken, NJ 07030 (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.
![Photo of Jody E Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fa241f0-6155-49a7-b067-fcc0e4399166/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please find me at my new practice: Clarity Counseling Network. Most individuals through life will encounter milestones & life events in which they need some guidance or simply to have someone to listen with a loving ear. My goal is to help to guide you through whatever life has thrown in your path in a healthy therapeutic way in which you feel safe and at ease with yourself. As you begin to understand difficult emotions such as anger, grief, trauma, anxiety, childhood events etc. you will begin to allow yourself to heal and work through these emotions in a healthy & positive way. Looking forward to being apart of your journey.
Please find me at my new practice: Clarity Counseling Network. Most individuals through life will encounter milestones & life events in which they need some guidance or simply to have someone to listen with a loving ear. My goal is to help to guide you through whatever life has thrown in your path in a healthy therapeutic way in which you feel safe and at ease with yourself. As you begin to understand difficult emotions such as anger, grief, trauma, anxiety, childhood events etc. you will begin to allow yourself to heal and work through these emotions in a healthy & positive way. Looking forward to being apart of your journey.
See more therapy options for Union City
Nearby Gestalt Therapists Searches for Union City
- Bloomfield
- Clifton
- East Orange
- Edgewater
- Englewood
- Fort Lee
- Hackensack
- Hoboken
- Newark
- Saddle Brook
- Teaneck
- West New York
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.