Therapists in Mill Neck, NY
There are no results for therapists in Mill Neck
Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in New York below.More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Sharon M Lorber, MS, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b88b612-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
After graduating from Columbia University's School of Social Work, I trained with the Milton Erickson Institute and the Long Island Gestalt Center.
Are you tired of feeling frustrated or ineffective in achieving your goals? Are your relationships causing you more pain than pleasure? You do not have to live this way. Consulting with a therapist about upsetting or confusing issues can be very helpful. Please contact me; I would like to help you. Working as a psychotherapist using multiple approaches with individuals, families, and couples, I treat depression, anxiety, addictions, parenting, marital, bereavement, divorce and career issues. With support and compassion, clients are helped to examine their beliefs, feelings and personal relationships and create desired goals.
After graduating from Columbia University's School of Social Work, I trained with the Milton Erickson Institute and the Long Island Gestalt Center.
Are you tired of feeling frustrated or ineffective in achieving your goals? Are your relationships causing you more pain than pleasure? You do not have to live this way. Consulting with a therapist about upsetting or confusing issues can be very helpful. Please contact me; I would like to help you. Working as a psychotherapist using multiple approaches with individuals, families, and couples, I treat depression, anxiety, addictions, parenting, marital, bereavement, divorce and career issues. With support and compassion, clients are helped to examine their beliefs, feelings and personal relationships and create desired goals.
![Photo of Evelyn Kuntz, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f1a6fe5-7a4f-4474-a2b9-fbbfea5de94e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evelyn Kuntz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Port Washington, NY 11050 (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of clinical approaches ( Gestalt Behavior and Spiritual).
I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist. Sound mental health is your right and achievable. I will work with you to understand how thoughts and behaviors can block self-awareness that can cause unhappiness. I can help with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relationships. The work is conducted in a comfortable, caring and private setting. I will work with you to achieve your goals, so that you leave with a lighter step – with a sense of confidence and purpose, knowing that you can confront life’s issues and problems because you will have the tools and know how to use them.
I utilize a variety of clinical approaches ( Gestalt Behavior and Spiritual).
I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist. Sound mental health is your right and achievable. I will work with you to understand how thoughts and behaviors can block self-awareness that can cause unhappiness. I can help with issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem and relationships. The work is conducted in a comfortable, caring and private setting. I will work with you to achieve your goals, so that you leave with a lighter step – with a sense of confidence and purpose, knowing that you can confront life’s issues and problems because you will have the tools and know how to use them.
![Photo of Deirdre Holland - First Step Directory, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e45075-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
First Step Directory
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Hicksville, NY 11801
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
Deirdre built First Step Therapy & Wellness Group from the ground up and has been hands on every step of the way. Her work ethic is indisputable and she is completely invested in creating a cohesive work environment adhering to values such as mutual respect and equality. She believes healthy doses of restraint combined with self discipline are key components to her success both personally and professionally. Deirdre is highly regarded by her peers and is a long-standing staple within the community where she is committed to creating a safe secure environment for her clients and colleagues. Ms. Holland currently maintains an established private practice
![Photo of Susan Stallone-Schmid - North Shore Counseling, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc87553d-8548-4c90-8363-54e8ca2ff8f7/1/320x400.png)
North Shore Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Woodbury, NY 11797
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a certification in addiction, My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues and managing life transitions and stress reduction.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with a certification in addiction, My specialties include the treatment of anxiety, depression, relationship issues and managing life transitions and stress reduction.
![Photo of Marina Orphanides, MA, MHC, LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bd09076-f4b2-4713-8788-6abdccfadee8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Guidance on how to cope through a difficult time, adjust to new circumstances and to re-discover who you may be in this very moment may be the initial steps to a whole new beginning. You might be going through relationship conflicts, adjusting to change or feeling like things are out of control. Anxiety symptoms may be enhanced or you feel like there is not many people you can go to that will understand. The goal is to feel at ease, to want to come to sessions and to explore unaddressed emotions, improve the ability to cope, and manage conflicts that prevent us from finding a balance. We will work together to create that balance.
Guidance on how to cope through a difficult time, adjust to new circumstances and to re-discover who you may be in this very moment may be the initial steps to a whole new beginning. You might be going through relationship conflicts, adjusting to change or feeling like things are out of control. Anxiety symptoms may be enhanced or you feel like there is not many people you can go to that will understand. The goal is to feel at ease, to want to come to sessions and to explore unaddressed emotions, improve the ability to cope, and manage conflicts that prevent us from finding a balance. We will work together to create that balance.
![Photo of Doris Aptekar, PhD, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1e5be5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
MIRACLES CAN HAPPEN. HAVE YOURS! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, School Psychologist, Bilingual Counselor, Hypnotherapist and Teacher, with special education experience who believes that "miracles can happen". I specialize in individual (children/adults}, couples and family,and hypnotherapy facilitating in smoking cessation, phobias, ADHD,OCD, behavior management, coaching and increasing self-esteem for achieving goals. I maintain a private practice in Roslyn Estates, New York.
License, Certifications & Awards: Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Honor Society in Psychology, Licensed Teacher, Certified School Psychologist. Certified Bilingual Counselor
Awards: National Psychology Honor Society, New York City Works for Community Contributions.
MIRACLES CAN HAPPEN. HAVE YOURS! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, School Psychologist, Bilingual Counselor, Hypnotherapist and Teacher, with special education experience who believes that "miracles can happen". I specialize in individual (children/adults}, couples and family,and hypnotherapy facilitating in smoking cessation, phobias, ADHD,OCD, behavior management, coaching and increasing self-esteem for achieving goals. I maintain a private practice in Roslyn Estates, New York.
License, Certifications & Awards: Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Honor Society in Psychology, Licensed Teacher, Certified School Psychologist. Certified Bilingual Counselor
Awards: National Psychology Honor Society, New York City Works for Community Contributions.
![Photo of Andrea S Gould, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3df55b61-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Is your love or work life in flux? Any life TRANSITION or CHANGE creates ripples, often producing stress and anxiety. Moving from one chapter of life to another asks us to leave our comfort zone. These are especially difficult times with the uncertainty factor challenging for all. Managing transition demands your perspectives, mindset and choices modify accordingly. LEARN what it takes to prepare and shift! A GROWTH mindset helps adjustment, and requires vision, motivation, and support to feel clear and confident. I'll be guiding you with wise compassion. Try a free 15min interview or visit LucidLearning.com for more info.
Is your love or work life in flux? Any life TRANSITION or CHANGE creates ripples, often producing stress and anxiety. Moving from one chapter of life to another asks us to leave our comfort zone. These are especially difficult times with the uncertainty factor challenging for all. Managing transition demands your perspectives, mindset and choices modify accordingly. LEARN what it takes to prepare and shift! A GROWTH mindset helps adjustment, and requires vision, motivation, and support to feel clear and confident. I'll be guiding you with wise compassion. Try a free 15min interview or visit LucidLearning.com for more info.
![Photo of Lisa Siclari, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89e354f0-bcdc-4e58-9ca8-b96a33dda238/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa utilizes a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic and Strength Based Approaches. She believes in the strength of the collaborative relationship between client and therapist. Lisa employs honesty, humor and her genuine love of people to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental and therapeutic environment. She aims to meet clients where they are to help foster self awareness, acceptance, personal exploration and growth.
Lisa utilizes a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic and Strength Based Approaches. She believes in the strength of the collaborative relationship between client and therapist. Lisa employs honesty, humor and her genuine love of people to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental and therapeutic environment. She aims to meet clients where they are to help foster self awareness, acceptance, personal exploration and growth.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Lindsay Reynolds, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb5c49b7-dcd2-4468-9588-4dd64084f197/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.), 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.), conflict (family dynamics, friendship or relationship, work stress, etc.) and building their identity.
![Photo of Rabia Khara, MA, MS, MFT, PCC, RDT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cedb4b13-fb28-4f5f-a8fc-dd9667e5d608/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, gestalt, solution-focused, narrative, drama, art, EMDR and mindfulness-based approach to therapy.
As a clinician, the therapeutic process is only meaningful and complete with the reciprocity and engagement of those I work with. Each individual is unique and their stories are interwoven with a rich tapestry of diverse emotions. By balancing the abstract, creative, philosophical, and introspective aspects of life with friendliness, compassion, empathy and care, I walk the path with you on your journey toward peace and happiness.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, gestalt, solution-focused, narrative, drama, art, EMDR and mindfulness-based approach to therapy.
As a clinician, the therapeutic process is only meaningful and complete with the reciprocity and engagement of those I work with. Each individual is unique and their stories are interwoven with a rich tapestry of diverse emotions. By balancing the abstract, creative, philosophical, and introspective aspects of life with friendliness, compassion, empathy and care, I walk the path with you on your journey toward peace and happiness.
![Photo of Diane L Esper, LP, Gestalt, Licensed Psychoanalyst](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d28a9ac-3729-4939-a8f5-fa0028f5fa75/1/320x400.jpeg)
I feel honored to walk with you on this therapeutic journey and have seen profound change and growth working within the gestalt approach.
As your therapist, my first concern is to create a safe and supportive place where you can explore what brings you to therapy. Whether you feel stuck in an unfulfilling relationship or are searching for more meaning in your day to day life, my approach will bring movement and change. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the key to successful therapy and we will practice authentic, present-centered dialogue including emotions held in the body. As we explore what is happening in the moment we often create new experiences that can replace old, obsolete or no longer use full patterns of belief.
I feel honored to walk with you on this therapeutic journey and have seen profound change and growth working within the gestalt approach.
As your therapist, my first concern is to create a safe and supportive place where you can explore what brings you to therapy. Whether you feel stuck in an unfulfilling relationship or are searching for more meaning in your day to day life, my approach will bring movement and change. I believe the therapeutic relationship is the key to successful therapy and we will practice authentic, present-centered dialogue including emotions held in the body. As we explore what is happening in the moment we often create new experiences that can replace old, obsolete or no longer use full patterns of belief.
I am a gestalt therapist with 39+ years of experience working with most cultures, religions, issues, and diagnoses. My clientele varies from blue-collar to artists to professionals. I also do corporate work, teach, train, supervise, lead workshops, and retreats, and am a therapist's therapist. I especially like working with traumas, old and new, addictions, creativity,somatic symptoms, and dreams. Strengths: I am creative, insightful, intuitive, empathic, motivated, and accepting; with excellent humor and timing. I have knowledge of psychotropic medications, homeopathy, spiritual practices. I continue to learn, grow, work on myself.
I am a gestalt therapist with 39+ years of experience working with most cultures, religions, issues, and diagnoses. My clientele varies from blue-collar to artists to professionals. I also do corporate work, teach, train, supervise, lead workshops, and retreats, and am a therapist's therapist. I especially like working with traumas, old and new, addictions, creativity,somatic symptoms, and dreams. Strengths: I am creative, insightful, intuitive, empathic, motivated, and accepting; with excellent humor and timing. I have knowledge of psychotropic medications, homeopathy, spiritual practices. I continue to learn, grow, work on myself.
![Photo of Lorraine Stidd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5363ff1e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a licensed clinical social worker and coach with certification in Gestalt psychotherapy and the Gestalt model of coaching, my practice is centered around individuals, couples and all types of families. I practice therapy and coaching with a holistic and action-oriented approach that encompasses the realms of body, emotion, mind and spirit. My focus is supporting my clients in promoting self-care and self-awareness in the present as they create their own unique life experience. My combined therapeutic and coaching work is interactive and supportive with the goal of helping clients move toward change and growth.
As a licensed clinical social worker and coach with certification in Gestalt psychotherapy and the Gestalt model of coaching, my practice is centered around individuals, couples and all types of families. I practice therapy and coaching with a holistic and action-oriented approach that encompasses the realms of body, emotion, mind and spirit. My focus is supporting my clients in promoting self-care and self-awareness in the present as they create their own unique life experience. My combined therapeutic and coaching work is interactive and supportive with the goal of helping clients move toward change and growth.
![Photo of Shengzi Sun, LMHC, MA, MEd, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d633edb-9731-4b6f-a7e9-33fa47268014/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shengzi believes everyone has the potential to achieve their life goals. She views therapy as a journey where people can explore their inner world, realizing their innate power, and then become their true selves, and be able to live a life they love. In this journey, clients and therapists are companions, working together to address and unpack those things in the past and present that inhibit the realization of the client’s ideal future. Primary therapeutic modalities include Person-Centered Counseling, Gestalt therapy, Narrative Therapy, Existential theories, and other relational approaches.
Shengzi believes everyone has the potential to achieve their life goals. She views therapy as a journey where people can explore their inner world, realizing their innate power, and then become their true selves, and be able to live a life they love. In this journey, clients and therapists are companions, working together to address and unpack those things in the past and present that inhibit the realization of the client’s ideal future. Primary therapeutic modalities include Person-Centered Counseling, Gestalt therapy, Narrative Therapy, Existential theories, and other relational approaches.
![Photo of Samir Sharma, MHC-LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e5a8110-415c-460b-bdf1-e50d8305e6e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I tailor interventions that blend CBT, gestalt, solution-focused and person-centered therapy to align with a client’s goals, identity, and culture.
I am dedicated to supporting clients who have been told depression or therapy are taboo. I offer deeply thoughtful reflections, with the goal of turning negative experiences into new directions and meanings. I can help you connect to your inner child and guide you through shadow work. I will help you understand the neuroscience of the brain and nervous system so that you know the work we do will literally make changes in your life. I am a guide and supporter as you learn to navigate past traumas and difficult life-changes that cause internal and external conflict.
I tailor interventions that blend CBT, gestalt, solution-focused and person-centered therapy to align with a client’s goals, identity, and culture.
I am dedicated to supporting clients who have been told depression or therapy are taboo. I offer deeply thoughtful reflections, with the goal of turning negative experiences into new directions and meanings. I can help you connect to your inner child and guide you through shadow work. I will help you understand the neuroscience of the brain and nervous system so that you know the work we do will literally make changes in your life. I am a guide and supporter as you learn to navigate past traumas and difficult life-changes that cause internal and external conflict.
![Photo of Jennifer Giuglianotti - Balanced Life Movement Creative Arts Therapy PLLC, MS, BC-DMT, LCAT, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b17ec38-8939-4fe7-a07f-514092e2f165/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balanced Life Movement Creative Arts Therapy PLLC
Art Therapist, MS, BC-DMT, LCAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11226
More than just talk therapy: Are you struggling to find deeper purpose & balance? You may feel disconnected, anxious, lonely & are seeking a sense of meaningful connection while finally healing the root of your pain. Whether you are feeling lost in how to heal unresolved trauma, or need support in transition, we will co-create authentic connection to your true self & develop a plan to reach your goals creatively. Together, our therapists will help you find freedom, feel safe in your body, and strengthen your tools for emotional balance. Treatment options: Creative Arts Therapy, Somatic Therapy, & KAP.
More than just talk therapy: Are you struggling to find deeper purpose & balance? You may feel disconnected, anxious, lonely & are seeking a sense of meaningful connection while finally healing the root of your pain. Whether you are feeling lost in how to heal unresolved trauma, or need support in transition, we will co-create authentic connection to your true self & develop a plan to reach your goals creatively. Together, our therapists will help you find freedom, feel safe in your body, and strengthen your tools for emotional balance. Treatment options: Creative Arts Therapy, Somatic Therapy, & KAP.
![Photo of Zeist Rizvi, MA, MHC-LP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23fe00db-7e2f-423d-851e-ca94521d10ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zeist employs a non-pathologizing therapeutic outlook, tailoring her approach according to each client's unique needs, drawing from modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Zeist employs a non-pathologizing therapeutic outlook, tailoring her approach according to each client's unique needs, drawing from modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
![Photo of Jennifer Schmitt - Tranquil Insights LMHC, PC, LMHC, CCMHC, NCC , CASAC, Reiki, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b736ce07-1ba7-41d9-bd9c-32d75abc11df/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tranquil Insights LMHC, PC
Counselor, LMHC, CCMHC, NCC , CASAC, Reiki
Verified Verified
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
Are you looking for a better approach toward life, your relationships, your career, life's transitions, your family? Our journey in life causes us to reflect on our experiences, which develop, define, and teach us, not only about ourselves but the lives of those around us and the world itself. Life often has a way of teaching us what we have either longed for, what we need to learn, or what we can learn, to help us work through difficult times, in order to allow ourselves the ability to love ourselves. It’s through these experiences/ times that we become stronger, to allow ourselves to heal to become the best version of ourselves.
Are you looking for a better approach toward life, your relationships, your career, life's transitions, your family? Our journey in life causes us to reflect on our experiences, which develop, define, and teach us, not only about ourselves but the lives of those around us and the world itself. Life often has a way of teaching us what we have either longed for, what we need to learn, or what we can learn, to help us work through difficult times, in order to allow ourselves the ability to love ourselves. It’s through these experiences/ times that we become stronger, to allow ourselves to heal to become the best version of ourselves.
![Photo of Debra Franklin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b97ed54-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debra Franklin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ellenville, NY 12428 (Online Only)
After 33 years of experience with adults, children, families, and couples, and many transformational groups, I developed Heart Path Therapy® (HPT), integrating the most life changing tools. They include ancient spiritual wisdom, guided imagery, inner childwork, energy psychology (similar to EFT & EMDR), use of sound, and ancestral connection work (Family Constellations). The goal is to transform emotional and relational struggles by bringing compassion to the source and in turn empower a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life. Join an adolescent or adult HPT® GROUP, inspiring online heart opening communities.
After 33 years of experience with adults, children, families, and couples, and many transformational groups, I developed Heart Path Therapy® (HPT), integrating the most life changing tools. They include ancient spiritual wisdom, guided imagery, inner childwork, energy psychology (similar to EFT & EMDR), use of sound, and ancestral connection work (Family Constellations). The goal is to transform emotional and relational struggles by bringing compassion to the source and in turn empower a greater sense of meaning and purpose in life. Join an adolescent or adult HPT® GROUP, inspiring online heart opening communities.
![Photo of Bukurije Ramusevic, MSEd, LMHC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52c87b36-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Buki, a seasoned Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to guiding individuals through life's complexities. With over 6 years of experience, I specialize in supporting adults from diverse backgrounds. Have you heard the saying, "With every hardship, comes ease?" Hardship is part of the human experience and ease can come in the form of a professional to guide and support you. You may be grappling with the weight of life's challenges, longing for relief and guidance. Maybe you are seeking understanding, coping mechanisms, and a compassionate ally to navigate your journey towards healing and resilience.
Hello, I'm Buki, a seasoned Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to guiding individuals through life's complexities. With over 6 years of experience, I specialize in supporting adults from diverse backgrounds. Have you heard the saying, "With every hardship, comes ease?" Hardship is part of the human experience and ease can come in the form of a professional to guide and support you. You may be grappling with the weight of life's challenges, longing for relief and guidance. Maybe you are seeking understanding, coping mechanisms, and a compassionate ally to navigate your journey towards healing and resilience.
See more therapy options for Mill Neck
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.