Gestalt Therapists in Clackamas, OR

Photo of Katie Solomon, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Solomon
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97086  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from Gestalt therapy, attachment theory, AEDP, and Internal Family Systems.
As a trauma-informed, somatic, and relational therapist, I approach therapy with a lot of curiosity, gentleness, and eagerness to explore what is happening for clients in the present moment. I often encourage clients to check in with the sensations in their bodies and may highlight patterns I notice. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where clients can access and explore their emotions and experiences, enabling a deeper connection to themselves and others. I also like to bring (appropriate) humor into sessions. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key part of the process!
I draw from Gestalt therapy, attachment theory, AEDP, and Internal Family Systems.
As a trauma-informed, somatic, and relational therapist, I approach therapy with a lot of curiosity, gentleness, and eagerness to explore what is happening for clients in the present moment. I often encourage clients to check in with the sensations in their bodies and may highlight patterns I notice. I strive to create a non-judgmental space where clients can access and explore their emotions and experiences, enabling a deeper connection to themselves and others. I also like to bring (appropriate) humor into sessions. I believe that building a strong therapeutic relationship is a key part of the process!
(971) 328-4181 View (971) 328-4181
Photo of Megan Coggins - Life Discovery Counseling Services, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Discovery Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015
We are a Christian counseling group that seeks to provide current and effective psychotherapy services from a Biblical perspective. We are highly trained counselors who all hold personal Christian values and principles, integrating these into each session without judgment or forcing anything on our clients. Rather, we want to provide hope and guidance through the struggles our clients present.
We are a Christian counseling group that seeks to provide current and effective psychotherapy services from a Biblical perspective. We are highly trained counselors who all hold personal Christian values and principles, integrating these into each session without judgment or forcing anything on our clients. Rather, we want to provide hope and guidance through the struggles our clients present.
(971) 701-2159 x700 View (971) 701-2159 x700
Photo of Kevin C. Miyasato - A Healing Intention, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Healing Intention, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clackamas, OR 97015
We are passionate about personal growth and self-actualization which can emerge through the therapeutic process. We believe everything that occurs in life is not by accident, but are in fact lessons to be used in grasping one's own meaning of life. Although we tend to favor experiential approaches, our theoretical orientation focuses on an integrative style of therapy. We begin with the client gradually building a foundation of acceptance and trust that is both affirming and non-judgmental. A successful therapeutic relationship is built upon making a connection through engagement allowing a client the freedom to just "be."
We are passionate about personal growth and self-actualization which can emerge through the therapeutic process. We believe everything that occurs in life is not by accident, but are in fact lessons to be used in grasping one's own meaning of life. Although we tend to favor experiential approaches, our theoretical orientation focuses on an integrative style of therapy. We begin with the client gradually building a foundation of acceptance and trust that is both affirming and non-judgmental. A successful therapeutic relationship is built upon making a connection through engagement allowing a client the freedom to just "be."
(503) 925-3306 View (503) 925-3306
Photo of Desiree Dawn Stang, LPC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Desiree Dawn Stang
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97086
Are you looking for counseling for yourself or you teenager? Are you or your teen depressed, anxious or angry? Whether you have experienced something traumatic, or you are struggling with minor issues I want to help. I enjoy helping people with a wide variety of problems including mental health issues, addictions, grief, and relationship problems. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives. It is my desire as a counselor to join the client as a collaborative team, cooperatively setting and working towards counseling goals.
Are you looking for counseling for yourself or you teenager? Are you or your teen depressed, anxious or angry? Whether you have experienced something traumatic, or you are struggling with minor issues I want to help. I enjoy helping people with a wide variety of problems including mental health issues, addictions, grief, and relationship problems. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives. It is my desire as a counselor to join the client as a collaborative team, cooperatively setting and working towards counseling goals.
(503) 751-8756 View (503) 751-8756
Photo of Bryan Dale Lewellen, LPC, MA, BS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bryan Dale Lewellen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, BS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97086
Bryan believes that people deserve an opportunity to seek help for personal healing and growth, as well as maneuvering through life while having the best possible interactions with their most important relationships. Bryan has a desire to see people live their best lives for themselves and with others. He has a keen interest in seeing people strive and thrive in their marriages.
Bryan believes that people deserve an opportunity to seek help for personal healing and growth, as well as maneuvering through life while having the best possible interactions with their most important relationships. Bryan has a desire to see people live their best lives for themselves and with others. He has a keen interest in seeing people strive and thrive in their marriages.
(971) 272-8984 View (971) 272-8984
Photo of Eden Swartz, MA, LPC Intern
Eden Swartz
LPC Intern, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015
Not accepting new clients
My favorite thing to do is support people. Being human can feel difficult and confusing at times. Communication can feel even trickier. I support my clients with lovingkindness and unlimited compassion. I am vibrant and down-to-earth. I definitely want all of my clients to feel safe, heard, and grounded. I specialize in transitions, anxiety, depression, sex, couples, parenting, divorce, insecurities, etc. I have a special place in my heart for the perinatal community. I have been working with new families for almost 20 years.
My favorite thing to do is support people. Being human can feel difficult and confusing at times. Communication can feel even trickier. I support my clients with lovingkindness and unlimited compassion. I am vibrant and down-to-earth. I definitely want all of my clients to feel safe, heard, and grounded. I specialize in transitions, anxiety, depression, sex, couples, parenting, divorce, insecurities, etc. I have a special place in my heart for the perinatal community. I have been working with new families for almost 20 years.
(503) 470-4753 View (503) 470-4753

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Griffin Oakley, MSc, NCC
Griffin Oakley
Professional Counselor Associate, MSc, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
My modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, SFBT, MI, Gestalt, Psychoeducation, and Skill Building, however I am always learning to ensure I provide current, evidence-based care.
Have you been struggling with anger, anxiety, depression or stress? Do you have trouble processing what you think and feel or find yourself reacting in ways that don't make sense? If you would like to work with someone who understands, who can help you cope, and can provide tools for you to navigate life's challenges in healthier, more productive ways, we may be a good fit! I happily offer free consultation with no obligation. Feel free to visit my website to learn more about me and how I can help you on your journey toward your best self.
My modalities include CBT, DBT, ACT, SFBT, MI, Gestalt, Psychoeducation, and Skill Building, however I am always learning to ensure I provide current, evidence-based care.
Have you been struggling with anger, anxiety, depression or stress? Do you have trouble processing what you think and feel or find yourself reacting in ways that don't make sense? If you would like to work with someone who understands, who can help you cope, and can provide tools for you to navigate life's challenges in healthier, more productive ways, we may be a good fit! I happily offer free consultation with no obligation. Feel free to visit my website to learn more about me and how I can help you on your journey toward your best self.
(971) 309-1633 View (971) 309-1633
Photo of Stephan A Tobin, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Stephan A Tobin
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
West Linn, OR 97068
As a psychologist with over 40 years in practice, I have worked with many kinds of people with many kinds of problems: depression, anxiety, childhood physical and sexual abuse, relationship difficulties, addictions. I work with late adolescents, adults and seniors. My orientation is integrative, with much experience in psychodynamic therapies, Gestalt Therapy and am certified in EMDR. I have offered phone and internet video therapy for many years for those who lived outside my area, including people in other countries. During the coronavirus epidemic, I am working completely online or by phone.
As a psychologist with over 40 years in practice, I have worked with many kinds of people with many kinds of problems: depression, anxiety, childhood physical and sexual abuse, relationship difficulties, addictions. I work with late adolescents, adults and seniors. My orientation is integrative, with much experience in psychodynamic therapies, Gestalt Therapy and am certified in EMDR. I have offered phone and internet video therapy for many years for those who lived outside my area, including people in other countries. During the coronavirus epidemic, I am working completely online or by phone.
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Photo of Asher Lyman - Asher Lyman, Mindful Therapy Accepting Insurence, LPC, PhDc, SEP
Asher Lyman, Mindful Therapy Accepting Insurence
LPC, PhDc, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97086  (Online Only)
In therapy, we access this intrinsic wisdom with powerful tools such as somatic practices, gestalt, and integration of inner parts to reduce negativity and anxiety, helping you feel connected to the world, lively, and more like yourself.
Living from an open heart IS possible, but talk therapy often feels like mental gymnastics or just venting. In contrast, tools such as meditation and breathwork focus on the heart-body inner experience as the core of therapy. Rather than changing through thought alone, mindful therapy works from the bottom up, connecting with your body’s ancient intuition to address your conflicts. The answers lie in connecting to your true feelings and bodily sensations. I’m Asher Lyman, a licensed Jungian-Somatic therapist with 20 years of experience, dedicated to helping you feel more authentic, alive, warm-hearted, grounded, and clear-eyed.
In therapy, we access this intrinsic wisdom with powerful tools such as somatic practices, gestalt, and integration of inner parts to reduce negativity and anxiety, helping you feel connected to the world, lively, and more like yourself.
Living from an open heart IS possible, but talk therapy often feels like mental gymnastics or just venting. In contrast, tools such as meditation and breathwork focus on the heart-body inner experience as the core of therapy. Rather than changing through thought alone, mindful therapy works from the bottom up, connecting with your body’s ancient intuition to address your conflicts. The answers lie in connecting to your true feelings and bodily sensations. I’m Asher Lyman, a licensed Jungian-Somatic therapist with 20 years of experience, dedicated to helping you feel more authentic, alive, warm-hearted, grounded, and clear-eyed.
(808) 862-6237 View (808) 862-6237
Photo of Melinda Arnold, MA, LPC, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
I use treatments theories such as Internal Family Systems, Attachment, and Developmental in conjunction with AEDP, Gestalt, interpersonal, CBT, EMDR and Solution-Focused Brief therapy techniques to treat the emotional and relational issues listed above.
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
I use treatments theories such as Internal Family Systems, Attachment, and Developmental in conjunction with AEDP, Gestalt, interpersonal, CBT, EMDR and Solution-Focused Brief therapy techniques to treat the emotional and relational issues listed above.
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
(503) 406-8848 View (503) 406-8848
Photo of Yerim Park, LPC, MSW, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yerim Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
I utilize many therapy skills based on the client's needs such as Play therapy for Kids, Art therapy for adults, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, Adlerian, Gestalt, Gottman Method, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Neuroscience, Culturally Sensitive, and so on.
I only accept Trillium and OHP. No matter how big the issue is, the possibility exists for you to become a better you and handle your issues. I have over 13 years working as a multicultural counselor and psychiatric social worker both in Oregon State and South Korea. My therapeutic approach is authentic/direct and compassionate. In therapy, I explore where the problems began and what factors perpetuate the problems. I view counseling as a collaborative effort between me and my clients. Children's play therapy is one of my specialties. Email me and share your concerns. No phone calls please.
I utilize many therapy skills based on the client's needs such as Play therapy for Kids, Art therapy for adults, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, Adlerian, Gestalt, Gottman Method, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Neuroscience, Culturally Sensitive, and so on.
I only accept Trillium and OHP. No matter how big the issue is, the possibility exists for you to become a better you and handle your issues. I have over 13 years working as a multicultural counselor and psychiatric social worker both in Oregon State and South Korea. My therapeutic approach is authentic/direct and compassionate. In therapy, I explore where the problems began and what factors perpetuate the problems. I view counseling as a collaborative effort between me and my clients. Children's play therapy is one of my specialties. Email me and share your concerns. No phone calls please.
(503) 832-5107 View (503) 832-5107
Photo of Kathryn Hartnett Boruff, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Hartnett Boruff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I practice Gestalt therapy in a warm and supportive environment, where I will help you gain insight into past patterns of behavior that are no longer useful, help you uncover barriers that are holding you back, develop new ways of coping, and build on existing strengths.
I have an immediate opening on telehealth. Do you struggle with anxiety that can be quite debilitating and that persists despite your daily efforts to manage it? Depression that drags you down and prevents you from enjoying your life fully? The impact of unresolved trauma making it difficult for you to respond to events in your life successfully? I specialize in working with young adults and am experienced in helping my clients address challenges unique to this stage of life. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to schedule a consultation on my website at www.khbcounseling.com.
I practice Gestalt therapy in a warm and supportive environment, where I will help you gain insight into past patterns of behavior that are no longer useful, help you uncover barriers that are holding you back, develop new ways of coping, and build on existing strengths.
I have an immediate opening on telehealth. Do you struggle with anxiety that can be quite debilitating and that persists despite your daily efforts to manage it? Depression that drags you down and prevents you from enjoying your life fully? The impact of unresolved trauma making it difficult for you to respond to events in your life successfully? I specialize in working with young adults and am experienced in helping my clients address challenges unique to this stage of life. If you are interested in learning more, please reach out to schedule a consultation on my website at www.khbcounseling.com.
(503) 461-9918 View (503) 461-9918
Photo of Laney Kibel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laney Kibel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
After 25+ years of providing counseling I find my philosophy has grown simpler and more to the point. Successful counseling is built on a positive and trusting relationship, much as successful living is dependent on trusting, healthy relationships. I bring a broad array of treatment tools to my work including gestalt, object relations and psychodynamic theory. Most importantly I bring myself; my heart, my humor, my understanding, knowledge and years of experience. I work with adults and children, couples and groups(this includes families).
After 25+ years of providing counseling I find my philosophy has grown simpler and more to the point. Successful counseling is built on a positive and trusting relationship, much as successful living is dependent on trusting, healthy relationships. I bring a broad array of treatment tools to my work including gestalt, object relations and psychodynamic theory. Most importantly I bring myself; my heart, my humor, my understanding, knowledge and years of experience. I work with adults and children, couples and groups(this includes families).
(971) 236-5012 View (971) 236-5012
Photo of Ben Mosebach, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Mosebach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Hey there, I'm Ben Mosebach and I'm not your typical therapist. I'm not here to offer you clichés or empty promises. What I offer is authenticity and the potential to profoundly impact your life. My approach to therapy is straightforward and down-to-earth. Theoretically I am rooted in the humanistic perspectives encompassing aspects of existentialism, gestalt and person centered therapy. But I'm not interested in wasting your time with superficial chatter or jargon-filled language. I'm here to roll up my sleeves and get to work with you, tackling whatever challenges you're facing head-on.
Hey there, I'm Ben Mosebach and I'm not your typical therapist. I'm not here to offer you clichés or empty promises. What I offer is authenticity and the potential to profoundly impact your life. My approach to therapy is straightforward and down-to-earth. Theoretically I am rooted in the humanistic perspectives encompassing aspects of existentialism, gestalt and person centered therapy. But I'm not interested in wasting your time with superficial chatter or jargon-filled language. I'm here to roll up my sleeves and get to work with you, tackling whatever challenges you're facing head-on.
(503) 564-7929 View (503) 564-7929
Photo of Brandon Houston, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brandon Houston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I practice a style of therapy, Gestalt Therapy, that is less talking about problems and more an active exploration of your experience in the world, with a strong emphasis on your embodied, somatic experience.
I wish to honor the struggle bringing you to therapy while holding the possibility for real, long lasting transformation. My intention is to create a space where you feel safe and capable of holding your experiences in new ways. From this space of self-acceptance, we will begin to explore the ways in which your natural expression has been distorted. In essence, you will recognize and work with the blocks limiting your life.
I practice a style of therapy, Gestalt Therapy, that is less talking about problems and more an active exploration of your experience in the world, with a strong emphasis on your embodied, somatic experience.
I wish to honor the struggle bringing you to therapy while holding the possibility for real, long lasting transformation. My intention is to create a space where you feel safe and capable of holding your experiences in new ways. From this space of self-acceptance, we will begin to explore the ways in which your natural expression has been distorted. In essence, you will recognize and work with the blocks limiting your life.
(971) 234-9578 View (971) 234-9578
Photo of Frankie Forrester, MS, NCC
Frankie Forrester
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Utilizing flavors of gestalt, somatic, and other modalities, I hold space for exploration of whatever arises in your therapeutic journey.
As a Black, non-binary, transracial adoptee, identity work is the name of my game. I often work with BIPOC and/or gender non-conforming individuals including children, pre-teens, and adults. I focus my clinical work in supporting those navigating challenges that arise from identity work: racial, gender, familial, societal, etc. The subject of adoption is particularly close to my heart and one that holds much nuance and intricacy. We may be a good fit if you are looking to explore any of the aforementioned or are the parent and/or guardian of the aforementioned. Please contact me using the "my website" link or visit crybaby.care.
Utilizing flavors of gestalt, somatic, and other modalities, I hold space for exploration of whatever arises in your therapeutic journey.
As a Black, non-binary, transracial adoptee, identity work is the name of my game. I often work with BIPOC and/or gender non-conforming individuals including children, pre-teens, and adults. I focus my clinical work in supporting those navigating challenges that arise from identity work: racial, gender, familial, societal, etc. The subject of adoption is particularly close to my heart and one that holds much nuance and intricacy. We may be a good fit if you are looking to explore any of the aforementioned or are the parent and/or guardian of the aforementioned. Please contact me using the "my website" link or visit crybaby.care.
Photo of Dr. Joyce Cha, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Joyce Cha
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I integrate my specialized training in child and adolescent development, Gestalt Approaches, and EFT.
I am currently accepting new patients -
I integrate my specialized training in child and adolescent development, Gestalt Approaches, and EFT.
I am currently accepting new patients -
(971) 545-4130 View (971) 545-4130
Photo of Colby Schneider, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Colby Schneider
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I offer guidance and unconditional positive regard to help people understand themselves using Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Humanistic, and Trauma Focused/Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Accepting New Clients - I help individuals and couples understand the deeper meaning of the problems that are holding them back and work with them so they can break free and reach their full potential. I use empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard to guide my practice while helping people understand themselves. Working together collaboratively but acknowledging that people are the experts of their own life, we will work together to end suffering while building self growth.
I offer guidance and unconditional positive regard to help people understand themselves using Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Humanistic, and Trauma Focused/Cognitive Behavioral Therapies.
Accepting New Clients - I help individuals and couples understand the deeper meaning of the problems that are holding them back and work with them so they can break free and reach their full potential. I use empathy, compassion, and unconditional positive regard to guide my practice while helping people understand themselves. Working together collaboratively but acknowledging that people are the experts of their own life, we will work together to end suffering while building self growth.
(503) 213-6068 View (503) 213-6068
Photo of Clifford Henry, MA
Clifford Henry
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Drawing from Liberation Psychology, Gestalt, and Somatic Embodiment, I offer a supportive space where your lived experiences are honored.
Are you feeling the weight of anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma? Wrestling with your identity or facing challenges in your relationships? The clients I have worked with are on a journey to find clarity, balance, and peace. If you’re committed to becoming more intentional in your life and breaking free from generational patterns that no longer serve you, we could be a great fit. My clients are often on the path to deeper self-awareness and genuine self-expression. Together, we’ll navigate what’s holding you back and guide you toward the growth and authenticity you seek.
Drawing from Liberation Psychology, Gestalt, and Somatic Embodiment, I offer a supportive space where your lived experiences are honored.
Are you feeling the weight of anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma? Wrestling with your identity or facing challenges in your relationships? The clients I have worked with are on a journey to find clarity, balance, and peace. If you’re committed to becoming more intentional in your life and breaking free from generational patterns that no longer serve you, we could be a great fit. My clients are often on the path to deeper self-awareness and genuine self-expression. Together, we’ll navigate what’s holding you back and guide you toward the growth and authenticity you seek.
(971) 309-8669 View (971) 309-8669
Photo of Jennifer E Kelly, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer E Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I am an integrative therapist, specifically engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy with my clients.
Hello! I am now accepting Pacific Source clients! My approach to therapy is to establish a safe and warm environment where growth, awareness, and healing take place. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity for clients to build upon existing strengths and learn coping strategies to feel better about themselves and interact more effectively with others and the world around them. Through a collaborative and supportive relationship, our work together will help you explore and give voice to the difficult experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which may be interfering with you living the meaningful life that is important to you.
I am an integrative therapist, specifically engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy with my clients.
Hello! I am now accepting Pacific Source clients! My approach to therapy is to establish a safe and warm environment where growth, awareness, and healing take place. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity for clients to build upon existing strengths and learn coping strategies to feel better about themselves and interact more effectively with others and the world around them. Through a collaborative and supportive relationship, our work together will help you explore and give voice to the difficult experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which may be interfering with you living the meaningful life that is important to you.
(503) 406-6634 View (503) 406-6634
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.