Gestalt Therapists in Dix Hills, NY

Photo of Ann M Champney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann M Champney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dix Hills, NY 11746
I am a trained Gestalt therapist and I work with individuals, couples and families.
I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years and I have an extensive background & significant experience in working with: anxiety disorders, depression, grief & loss, relationships, abandonment , self-esteem issues, & PTSD. I am also skilled in doing inner child work. Whether it's marital or individual counseling, I very much value the "creative" process necessary for change and growth. I believe change is a journey we all struggle with. Having help on this journey can be life changing.
I am a trained Gestalt therapist and I work with individuals, couples and families.
I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years and I have an extensive background & significant experience in working with: anxiety disorders, depression, grief & loss, relationships, abandonment , self-esteem issues, & PTSD. I am also skilled in doing inner child work. Whether it's marital or individual counseling, I very much value the "creative" process necessary for change and growth. I believe change is a journey we all struggle with. Having help on this journey can be life changing.
(516) 962-2694 View (516) 962-2694
Photo of Lauren Miceli - Lauren Miceli Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Miceli Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Lauren Miceli Counseling is a group practice comprised of eleven therapists. Therapy is an investment in yourself, your relationships, and your future. Talking about your thoughts and feelings with a supportive person has the ability to make you feel better. The therapy process can be healing by providing you a voice for worries or to talk about something that's weighing on your mind. We are committed therapists who can help you get to the root of your problems, overcome emotional challenges, and make positive changes in your life.
Lauren Miceli Counseling is a group practice comprised of eleven therapists. Therapy is an investment in yourself, your relationships, and your future. Talking about your thoughts and feelings with a supportive person has the ability to make you feel better. The therapy process can be healing by providing you a voice for worries or to talk about something that's weighing on your mind. We are committed therapists who can help you get to the root of your problems, overcome emotional challenges, and make positive changes in your life.
(516) 252-0349 View (516) 252-0349
Photo of Gene Foley, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gene Foley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746  (Online Only)
Using the science-based technique (CBT) cognitive behavior therapy, I will help you explore thoughts about people, places, and things in your life. We can either learn to be happier in the lives we have, or gain the strength and motivation to change it into the life we want. Therapy is best when it is a conversation between two genuine people. I like the analogy of the therapist as a seasoned woodsman, who meets you, lost in your personal forest. As you walk and talk, the woodsman subtly uses known cues about how to get out of the woods.
Using the science-based technique (CBT) cognitive behavior therapy, I will help you explore thoughts about people, places, and things in your life. We can either learn to be happier in the lives we have, or gain the strength and motivation to change it into the life we want. Therapy is best when it is a conversation between two genuine people. I like the analogy of the therapist as a seasoned woodsman, who meets you, lost in your personal forest. As you walk and talk, the woodsman subtly uses known cues about how to get out of the woods.
(631) 496-2384 View (631) 496-2384
Photo of Harriette Rovner Ferguson - Transformations Counseling Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Transformations Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Transformations Counseling Group's goal is to create a safe environment for you to talk about and deal with the issues that have stopped you from living the life you want. We pride ourselves on being non-judgmental and interactive therapists. We believe that you will be best helped by our ability to offer you insights and honest feedback. There are so many obstacles to leading a healthy and satisfying life and our experiences in working with hundreds of individuals and couples can help you reach the goals that you desire for yourself and in your relationships.
Transformations Counseling Group's goal is to create a safe environment for you to talk about and deal with the issues that have stopped you from living the life you want. We pride ourselves on being non-judgmental and interactive therapists. We believe that you will be best helped by our ability to offer you insights and honest feedback. There are so many obstacles to leading a healthy and satisfying life and our experiences in working with hundreds of individuals and couples can help you reach the goals that you desire for yourself and in your relationships.
(631) 593-5345 View (631) 593-5345
Photo of Dr. Eric Michael Urevich, DSW, LMSW, MS, CASAC
Dr. Eric Michael Urevich
Licensed Master Social Worker, DSW, LMSW, MS, CASAC
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
Children, Adolescents and Adults today are facing challenges that are often extremely complicated, confusing and overwhelming. From the harmful aspects of social media impacting children to the economic and physical stress on parents working to keep their family healthy and thriving, things just seem more difficult. Families Together Resource Center is here to provide the support and resources needed to help make life for you, your child and/or your family more manageable, peaceful and fulfilling.
Children, Adolescents and Adults today are facing challenges that are often extremely complicated, confusing and overwhelming. From the harmful aspects of social media impacting children to the economic and physical stress on parents working to keep their family healthy and thriving, things just seem more difficult. Families Together Resource Center is here to provide the support and resources needed to help make life for you, your child and/or your family more manageable, peaceful and fulfilling.
(516) 386-4307 View (516) 386-4307
Photo of Jackie Fee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jackie Fee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dix Hills, NY 11746
When you are ready to seek healing and personal growth, please realize you do not have to be alone in your journey. I have always been fascinated by how minds and hearts can be healed. I am dedicated to the process that allows people to step into their own light, and I feel blessed to be a psychotherapist. I believe everyone needs a safe place to be heard and understood. Creating a safe and trusting environment for my clients is a primary focus for me. Every person has a unique life story. Together we will discover the areas that need the most attention and realize healing, peace of mind and joy are all within reach.
When you are ready to seek healing and personal growth, please realize you do not have to be alone in your journey. I have always been fascinated by how minds and hearts can be healed. I am dedicated to the process that allows people to step into their own light, and I feel blessed to be a psychotherapist. I believe everyone needs a safe place to be heard and understood. Creating a safe and trusting environment for my clients is a primary focus for me. Every person has a unique life story. Together we will discover the areas that need the most attention and realize healing, peace of mind and joy are all within reach.
(631) 250-2746 View (631) 250-2746

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dominica Aufiero, LCSW
Dominica Aufiero
LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11815
I have a holistic view in healing and deeply value the client-therapist relationship. Creativity is the true essence of psychotherapy. I value clients partnership in their healing and invite them to explore their inner insight and creativity along with my therapeutic guidance. I draw from clinical approaches such as CBT, culturally sensitive, eclectic, integrative, jungian, humanistic, transpersonal, strength based and gestalt. My experience has brought me to see valuable psychotherapy as when the client becomes aware that their presenting problem can be healed by adopting and integrating positive and healthy perceptions and actions.
I have a holistic view in healing and deeply value the client-therapist relationship. Creativity is the true essence of psychotherapy. I value clients partnership in their healing and invite them to explore their inner insight and creativity along with my therapeutic guidance. I draw from clinical approaches such as CBT, culturally sensitive, eclectic, integrative, jungian, humanistic, transpersonal, strength based and gestalt. My experience has brought me to see valuable psychotherapy as when the client becomes aware that their presenting problem can be healed by adopting and integrating positive and healthy perceptions and actions.
(516) 690-7950 View (516) 690-7950
Photo of Diane L Roach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane L Roach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Station, NY 11746
We live in a fast paced society and changes happen everyday. At times it may be difficult to catch up with yourself, and when you finally do, it can be overwhelming. As a Gestalt certified psychotherapist I will help guide you back into present day awareness of yourself, whether you are searching for who you are today, or are feeling stuck and unmotivated, I can help you.
We live in a fast paced society and changes happen everyday. At times it may be difficult to catch up with yourself, and when you finally do, it can be overwhelming. As a Gestalt certified psychotherapist I will help guide you back into present day awareness of yourself, whether you are searching for who you are today, or are feeling stuck and unmotivated, I can help you.
(516) 596-8564 View (516) 596-8564
Photo of Jandy Choe, LMHC
Jandy Choe
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Trying to pick the right therapist can be a challenge. You can think of our first meeting more like a conversation, where we will go over what you are experiencing and how I can help you materialize your goals, values, and priorities. I offer a safe, comfortable, and compassionate space where we can explore how to reduce your suffering and help you get to where you want to be. For years, I have made it my purpose to help others resolve their internal pain and heartache. Although I tailor my approach for each client, I tend to consistently utilize EMDR, psychodynamic, gestalt, DBT, and narrative theoretical orientations.
Trying to pick the right therapist can be a challenge. You can think of our first meeting more like a conversation, where we will go over what you are experiencing and how I can help you materialize your goals, values, and priorities. I offer a safe, comfortable, and compassionate space where we can explore how to reduce your suffering and help you get to where you want to be. For years, I have made it my purpose to help others resolve their internal pain and heartache. Although I tailor my approach for each client, I tend to consistently utilize EMDR, psychodynamic, gestalt, DBT, and narrative theoretical orientations.
(516) 399-0534 View (516) 399-0534
Photo of Karisa Endelmann, LMHC , CASAC, Counselor
Karisa Endelmann
Counselor, LMHC , CASAC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Babylon, NY 11703
My training includes Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Gestalt Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward health and healing. There comes a time in life when our old ways of thinking and behaving are no longer serving us, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Therapy can be a great way to explore solutions and learn to manage your symptoms.
My training includes Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy, Gestalt Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Congratulations on taking the first step toward health and healing. There comes a time in life when our old ways of thinking and behaving are no longer serving us, which can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Therapy can be a great way to explore solutions and learn to manage your symptoms.
(631) 250-4654 View (631) 250-4654
Photo of Tiffany Kraft, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffany Kraft
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Greenlawn, NY 11740
Come alongside me, while I welcome you into a space where you can feel safe to explore your feelings and emotions without fear of judgement. I believe life is a journey full of challenges and obstacles. I want to help you navigate through that journey. I utilize an array of therapeutic techniques such as interpersonal therapy, CBT, holistic approach, strength based, trauma focused, and Gestalt therapy. My expertise ranges from my work with children and adolescents to my work with older adults. If you are looking for a supportive, compassionate therapist, I am here to help you!
Come alongside me, while I welcome you into a space where you can feel safe to explore your feelings and emotions without fear of judgement. I believe life is a journey full of challenges and obstacles. I want to help you navigate through that journey. I utilize an array of therapeutic techniques such as interpersonal therapy, CBT, holistic approach, strength based, trauma focused, and Gestalt therapy. My expertise ranges from my work with children and adolescents to my work with older adults. If you are looking for a supportive, compassionate therapist, I am here to help you!
(516) 363-1976 View (516) 363-1976
Photo of Maya Novok, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maya Novok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
As an experienced clinician, I utilize evidenced-based practices in my private practice including the following therapeutic interventions: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy, Gestalt and Motivational Interviewing.
When the last time someone really listened to you? When was the last time you truly felt understood? If you're struggling to put your needs first, I can be your guide to help you navigate through your feelings and thoughts. With 16 years of counseling experience, I specialize in treating individuals, couples and families that struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Past Trauma, Relationships, Intimacy Issues, Sexuality, and Stress with the compassion and dignity they deserve.
As an experienced clinician, I utilize evidenced-based practices in my private practice including the following therapeutic interventions: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy, Gestalt and Motivational Interviewing.
When the last time someone really listened to you? When was the last time you truly felt understood? If you're struggling to put your needs first, I can be your guide to help you navigate through your feelings and thoughts. With 16 years of counseling experience, I specialize in treating individuals, couples and families that struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Past Trauma, Relationships, Intimacy Issues, Sexuality, and Stress with the compassion and dignity they deserve.
(631) 817-4090 View (631) 817-4090
Photo of Lindsay Reynolds, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Lindsay Reynolds
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
West Islip, NY 11795
I utilize Gestalt, DBT, Somatic processing and Guided Drawing (bilateral) techniques alongside an art therapy approach to make a personalized plan.
My clients are adults who have been avoiding or "dissociating" but now want to understand their emotions and feelings so that they can feel prepared and more fulfilled. They have experienced or are currently going through life challenges such as: surgery or illness, grief & loss (passing of a loved one, divorce, breakup, moving, chronic illness, etc.) a traumatic experience or childhood trauma, mood regulation (anxiety, depression, resentment, etc.), social or communication conflict (family dynamics, friendship or relationship, work stress, etc.) and building their identity.
I utilize Gestalt, DBT, Somatic processing and Guided Drawing (bilateral) techniques alongside an art therapy approach to make a personalized plan.
My clients are adults who have been avoiding or "dissociating" but now want to understand their emotions and feelings so that they can feel prepared and more fulfilled. They have experienced or are currently going through life challenges such as: surgery or illness, grief & loss (passing of a loved one, divorce, breakup, moving, chronic illness, etc.) a traumatic experience or childhood trauma, mood regulation (anxiety, depression, resentment, etc.), social or communication conflict (family dynamics, friendship or relationship, work stress, etc.) and building their identity.
(631) 892-2387 View (631) 892-2387
Photo of Caren Jacobs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caren Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
As an EMDRIA-Accredited Certified Therapist and Certified Gestalt Therapist, I will help you identify and resolve the root cause of your symptoms.
Feeling stuck? Tired of the negative narratives that constantly play in your head? If you suffer from anxiety or trauma, but are finding it difficult to seek help, I am here for you. With over 35 years experience working with those suffering from anxiety, trauma, depression, and grief due to loss. I will listen to your pain and offer guidance, support and practical solutions. When you find the right person to share your darkest pain and shame, remarkable transformations can occur. Let me assist you in your healing journey. Together, we can discover where you may be blocked. You deserve to feel joy again! There is hope! I can help!
As an EMDRIA-Accredited Certified Therapist and Certified Gestalt Therapist, I will help you identify and resolve the root cause of your symptoms.
Feeling stuck? Tired of the negative narratives that constantly play in your head? If you suffer from anxiety or trauma, but are finding it difficult to seek help, I am here for you. With over 35 years experience working with those suffering from anxiety, trauma, depression, and grief due to loss. I will listen to your pain and offer guidance, support and practical solutions. When you find the right person to share your darkest pain and shame, remarkable transformations can occur. Let me assist you in your healing journey. Together, we can discover where you may be blocked. You deserve to feel joy again! There is hope! I can help!
(631) 496-1675 View (631) 496-1675
Photo of Danielle Schimel, MA, MHC-LP
Danielle Schimel
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hauppauge, NY 11788
I utilize multiple interventions from CBT, DBT, Play therapy, Gestalt, SFBT, Reality, Person-centered, Family systems, and Mindfulness.
I want to begin by applauding your initiative in seeking counseling services. Acknowledging the need for help and reaching out is a commendable and courageous step. It demonstrates self-awareness and a willingness to prioritize your well-being. I want to help individuals manage ADHD, Relationship and Interpersonal issues, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Stress, Burnout, and more.
I utilize multiple interventions from CBT, DBT, Play therapy, Gestalt, SFBT, Reality, Person-centered, Family systems, and Mindfulness.
I want to begin by applauding your initiative in seeking counseling services. Acknowledging the need for help and reaching out is a commendable and courageous step. It demonstrates self-awareness and a willingness to prioritize your well-being. I want to help individuals manage ADHD, Relationship and Interpersonal issues, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Stress, Burnout, and more.
(631) 735-6979 View (631) 735-6979
Photo of Elizabeth Cambra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Cambra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Babylon, NY 11702  (Online Only)
I have an eclectic approach utilizing various therapeutic modalities including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Gestalt and person-centered therapy and Imago practices for couple's and marriage counseling.
I am a psychotherapist with many years of experience working with individuals and couples. In my practice I utilize a wholistic approach with an emphasis on helping the client resolve "unfinished business". Unresolved emotions can have a negative impact on one's psychological and physical health. As your therapist, I will help you achieve an understanding and awareness of the obstacles that may be keeping you from living a more full and satisfying life. With your renewed self-knowledge, you will have the potential to create the relationships and the life that you want and need.
I have an eclectic approach utilizing various therapeutic modalities including but not limited to: Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Gestalt and person-centered therapy and Imago practices for couple's and marriage counseling.
I am a psychotherapist with many years of experience working with individuals and couples. In my practice I utilize a wholistic approach with an emphasis on helping the client resolve "unfinished business". Unresolved emotions can have a negative impact on one's psychological and physical health. As your therapist, I will help you achieve an understanding and awareness of the obstacles that may be keeping you from living a more full and satisfying life. With your renewed self-knowledge, you will have the potential to create the relationships and the life that you want and need.
(631) 676-1697 View (631) 676-1697
Photo of Leah Block, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Block
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of methodologies including, CRAFT Coaching, Gestalt Psychotherapy, NonDual Healing and Awakening, the 12 step recovery process, Meditation & Mindfulness and the connection between mind-body-spirit.
The unfolding nature of our lives is a sacred journey and can be trusted. When we know how to listen, engage and trust the wisdom of our own lives, journeys and hearts, we become more ourselves. I view therapy as a process of learning to listen and live life more authentically, from our inner GPS, rather than from others telling us who we are, who we should be and what to think/do/etc. This process is key to life satisfaction as we become the person we were meant to be.
I utilize a variety of methodologies including, CRAFT Coaching, Gestalt Psychotherapy, NonDual Healing and Awakening, the 12 step recovery process, Meditation & Mindfulness and the connection between mind-body-spirit.
The unfolding nature of our lives is a sacred journey and can be trusted. When we know how to listen, engage and trust the wisdom of our own lives, journeys and hearts, we become more ourselves. I view therapy as a process of learning to listen and live life more authentically, from our inner GPS, rather than from others telling us who we are, who we should be and what to think/do/etc. This process is key to life satisfaction as we become the person we were meant to be.
(516) 206-2897 View (516) 206-2897
Photo of Michele Frimmer - Awaken to Life Therapy, LP, MSEd, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Awaken to Life Therapy
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, MSEd
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I am a Certified Gestalt Therapist and Licensed Art Educator.
It is my intention is to guide you through a process of awakening to who you truly are, so that you may begin to live life with a sense of aliveness, trust, purpose and peace of mind. In our work together we will explore, question and slowly dismantle the blocks to your Authenticity by considering the thoughts and beliefs you hold and the behaviors that have become self-defeating and are no longer serving you. You will become aware and conscious of the movements of your mind and feelings in your present moment experience. You will come to realize that by taking responsibility for what you think, believe and do, you have a choice.
I am a Certified Gestalt Therapist and Licensed Art Educator.
It is my intention is to guide you through a process of awakening to who you truly are, so that you may begin to live life with a sense of aliveness, trust, purpose and peace of mind. In our work together we will explore, question and slowly dismantle the blocks to your Authenticity by considering the thoughts and beliefs you hold and the behaviors that have become self-defeating and are no longer serving you. You will become aware and conscious of the movements of your mind and feelings in your present moment experience. You will come to realize that by taking responsibility for what you think, believe and do, you have a choice.
(631) 519-9904 View (631) 519-9904
Photo of Mindy R Bresky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy R Bresky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenlawn, NY 11740
By integrating various therapeutic modalities including, gestalt Therapy and mindfulness practices, I will tailor our work together to address your needs and goals.
With over two decades of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in anxiety, grief, depression, and addiction, I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment for my clients. Drawing from my extensive training in The Gestalt Institute, I understand the profound impact of the therapeutic relationship on the healing process. In my practice, I place a strong emphasis on fostering a personal connection with each client. I believe that this relationship is not only important but fundamental to facilitating meaningful change Wherever you are in your journey, I am dedicated to supporting you.
By integrating various therapeutic modalities including, gestalt Therapy and mindfulness practices, I will tailor our work together to address your needs and goals.
With over two decades of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in anxiety, grief, depression, and addiction, I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment for my clients. Drawing from my extensive training in The Gestalt Institute, I understand the profound impact of the therapeutic relationship on the healing process. In my practice, I place a strong emphasis on fostering a personal connection with each client. I believe that this relationship is not only important but fundamental to facilitating meaningful change Wherever you are in your journey, I am dedicated to supporting you.
(516) 517-0694 View (516) 517-0694
Photo of Jeffrey R Zeth - Becoming Yourself, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becoming Yourself
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centerport, NY 11721  (Online Only)
As a gestalt therapist, I use a combination of experiential and cognitive techniques, first to get inside your experience, and then to look at ways of changing it.
Do you feel without a sense of purpose in your life? Are you in long-term addiction recovery and looking for meaning in life beyond sobriety? Have your relationships been lacking the connection you want, or has a relationship recently ended? Are you anxious about meeting new people? All these challenges are easier to overcome when there is someone facing them with you. Previous clients have worked in academia and the STEM fields, are in the process of ending long-term relationships, or are in long-term addiction recovery (at least one year).
As a gestalt therapist, I use a combination of experiential and cognitive techniques, first to get inside your experience, and then to look at ways of changing it.
Do you feel without a sense of purpose in your life? Are you in long-term addiction recovery and looking for meaning in life beyond sobriety? Have your relationships been lacking the connection you want, or has a relationship recently ended? Are you anxious about meeting new people? All these challenges are easier to overcome when there is someone facing them with you. Previous clients have worked in academia and the STEM fields, are in the process of ending long-term relationships, or are in long-term addiction recovery (at least one year).
(347) 652-1028 View (347) 652-1028

See more therapy options for Dix Hills

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.