Gestalt Therapists in Lake Oswego, OR

Photo of Stephan A Tobin, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Stephan A Tobin
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
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 Melinda Arnold, MA, LPC, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
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 Lynae Nelson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynae Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I believe that we all experience struggles in life, both within ourselves and through challenging circumstances. These struggles can result in trauma, anxiety, depression, brain and body changes, influence our sense of self-worth, identity, belief in our abilities, the world around us, and otherwise limit us . So often, these struggles can impact our relationships, career, and long-term well-being. Clients who want to address these, and other, concerns head on in a supportive manner with a trauma lens and utilize treatment guided by science and a neuro-biological approach would enjoy my approach to therapy.
I believe that we all experience struggles in life, both within ourselves and through challenging circumstances. These struggles can result in trauma, anxiety, depression, brain and body changes, influence our sense of self-worth, identity, belief in our abilities, the world around us, and otherwise limit us . So often, these struggles can impact our relationships, career, and long-term well-being. Clients who want to address these, and other, concerns head on in a supportive manner with a trauma lens and utilize treatment guided by science and a neuro-biological approach would enjoy my approach to therapy.
(458) 218-8364 View (458) 218-8364
Photo of Caroline McGrath, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline McGrath
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Embracing a collaborative approach that seamlessly integrates Therapy, Trauma-Informed Breathwork, and Jungian Coaching, I support individuals as they journey through life's peaks, valleys, and transitions. My guidance extends to various areas such as managing school and career-related stress, navigating the intricate web of friendships and family dynamics, coping with divorce, addressing life and career transitions, and guiding you through your unique and profound healing journey. Within this safe and non-judgmental space, I empower you to cultivate a profound sense of self as you embark on your transformative path.
Embracing a collaborative approach that seamlessly integrates Therapy, Trauma-Informed Breathwork, and Jungian Coaching, I support individuals as they journey through life's peaks, valleys, and transitions. My guidance extends to various areas such as managing school and career-related stress, navigating the intricate web of friendships and family dynamics, coping with divorce, addressing life and career transitions, and guiding you through your unique and profound healing journey. Within this safe and non-judgmental space, I empower you to cultivate a profound sense of self as you embark on your transformative path.
(503) 822-6683 View (503) 822-6683
Photo of Eric Bruemmer, MS, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Bruemmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Having worked with Virtual Therapy (phone and video) since 2004 and Virtual EMDR since 2017, I can serve you now. Fitting my training and style, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is a comprehensive and gently compassionate approach to adversity and trauma including anxiety, depression, couple and family issues. I work with diverse adults across the life spectrum. Licensed in both Oregon and Illinois, I am committed to life change and am on a personal adventure as well. Any questions, please ask? There are answers and I have help.
Having worked with Virtual Therapy (phone and video) since 2004 and Virtual EMDR since 2017, I can serve you now. Fitting my training and style, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is a comprehensive and gently compassionate approach to adversity and trauma including anxiety, depression, couple and family issues. I work with diverse adults across the life spectrum. Licensed in both Oregon and Illinois, I am committed to life change and am on a personal adventure as well. Any questions, please ask? There are answers and I have help.
(971) 351-2720 View (971) 351-2720
Photo of CJ Strauss, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
CJ Strauss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Are you living life to the fullest? What do you need to help you thrive? Sometimes counseling is focused on coping and healing. Sometimes it's more about personal or relational growth and awareness. It is an honor when people come and are able to trust enough to begin the counseling work. Counseling is such a courageous undertaking. It begins with listening and respect, evolving into a cooperative effort. I strive to offer my clients a safe place to start and a balanced perspective in the change process. I hope I can help you come to a place of wellbeing.
Are you living life to the fullest? What do you need to help you thrive? Sometimes counseling is focused on coping and healing. Sometimes it's more about personal or relational growth and awareness. It is an honor when people come and are able to trust enough to begin the counseling work. Counseling is such a courageous undertaking. It begins with listening and respect, evolving into a cooperative effort. I strive to offer my clients a safe place to start and a balanced perspective in the change process. I hope I can help you come to a place of wellbeing.
(503) 446-4081 View (503) 446-4081
Photo of David C Manfield, PhD, Psychologist
David C Manfield
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
I am a therapist with over thirty years clinical experience. Over the years I’ve worked with and helped hundreds of individuals and couples through a wide range of difficulties. I’ve learned that there are a lot ways to help, to heal and to promote personal growth, and that no particular approach fits every person or situation. For some individuals problems arise from recent traumatic events, while others struggle with childhood trauma or neglect. Some have disabling anxiety, chronic sleep problems, self-destructive behaviors, self-worth issues or general depression.
I am a therapist with over thirty years clinical experience. Over the years I’ve worked with and helped hundreds of individuals and couples through a wide range of difficulties. I’ve learned that there are a lot ways to help, to heal and to promote personal growth, and that no particular approach fits every person or situation. For some individuals problems arise from recent traumatic events, while others struggle with childhood trauma or neglect. Some have disabling anxiety, chronic sleep problems, self-destructive behaviors, self-worth issues or general depression.
(503) 446-5093 View (503) 446-5093
Photo of George A Howard, PsyD, Psychologist
George A Howard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
Waitlist for new clients
Hi there! I'm so glad you're here. You've taken the first step towards a happier and healthier life. Are you feeling stressed out, overwhelmed, or unhappy with your current situation? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, trauma, ADHD, or self-defeating behaviors? Do you want to make positive changes in your life, but you feel stuck, weighed down, or unsure? If you are looking for a caring, experienced therapist who can provide you with a safe, supportive, professional space where you can explore your challenges, strengths, and goals - you have come to the right place.
Hi there! I'm so glad you're here. You've taken the first step towards a happier and healthier life. Are you feeling stressed out, overwhelmed, or unhappy with your current situation? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, addiction, trauma, ADHD, or self-defeating behaviors? Do you want to make positive changes in your life, but you feel stuck, weighed down, or unsure? If you are looking for a caring, experienced therapist who can provide you with a safe, supportive, professional space where you can explore your challenges, strengths, and goals - you have come to the right place.
(503) 272-6239 View (503) 272-6239
Photo of Darla Hailey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darla Hailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my goal in therapy is to help you identify changes you want to make and create a path together to make those changes that lead you to “out-grow” therapy. I am solution focused, utilizing action-oriented therapies, with over 30 years of clinical experience treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions. I have extensive experience working in outpatient and inpatient settings with strong therapeutic, crisis intervention and educational skills that lead to decreasing negative symptoms and increasing productivity and feeling better.
As a therapist, my goal in therapy is to help you identify changes you want to make and create a path together to make those changes that lead you to “out-grow” therapy. I am solution focused, utilizing action-oriented therapies, with over 30 years of clinical experience treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions. I have extensive experience working in outpatient and inpatient settings with strong therapeutic, crisis intervention and educational skills that lead to decreasing negative symptoms and increasing productivity and feeling better.
(503) 479-4127 View (503) 479-4127
Photo of Ian Griffith Scheiner - Ian Scheiner Counseling PLLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ian Scheiner Counseling PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Are you facing a change in your life, or some obstacle that leaves you feeling tired, defeated, overwhelmed, constantly stressed, and alone? Do you feel stuck in your current struggles like your tires are spinning but you aren’t going anywhere? I work with my clients to explore how their experiences in life have shaped their relationships with themselves and how to improve that self-relationship. I help my clients find new, constructive ways to channel difficult emotions to feel better in daily life. I help my clients explore healthier ways of relating to themselves and to others.
Are you facing a change in your life, or some obstacle that leaves you feeling tired, defeated, overwhelmed, constantly stressed, and alone? Do you feel stuck in your current struggles like your tires are spinning but you aren’t going anywhere? I work with my clients to explore how their experiences in life have shaped their relationships with themselves and how to improve that self-relationship. I help my clients find new, constructive ways to channel difficult emotions to feel better in daily life. I help my clients explore healthier ways of relating to themselves and to others.
(206) 792-1195 View (206) 792-1195
Photo of Dr. Joslyn C Armstrong, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Dr. Joslyn C Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, PhD
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
I am looking for couple clients such as monogamous, heterosexual, queer and sexually fluid, trans, cohabitating, and married couples. Also, I specialize in racially diverse couples such as Black/African American, Latinx, Asian, and interracial/interethnic couples. The prominent presenting issues I work with couples on range from communication issues, conflict resolution, blended family stress to infidelity. Then, for individual clients, I am looking for women and men clients, specially focusing on male, men of color, and women of color clients.
I am looking for couple clients such as monogamous, heterosexual, queer and sexually fluid, trans, cohabitating, and married couples. Also, I specialize in racially diverse couples such as Black/African American, Latinx, Asian, and interracial/interethnic couples. The prominent presenting issues I work with couples on range from communication issues, conflict resolution, blended family stress to infidelity. Then, for individual clients, I am looking for women and men clients, specially focusing on male, men of color, and women of color clients.
(503) 744-6981 View (503) 744-6981
Photo of Gina L Mcwhorter, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina L Mcwhorter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Gina is a skilled and compassionate provider specializing in traumatic stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, and highly sensitive persons. Through a psychodynamic, mindbody lens, she compassionately guides clients beyond defenses to connect with wholeness and peace.
Gina is a skilled and compassionate provider specializing in traumatic stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, and highly sensitive persons. Through a psychodynamic, mindbody lens, she compassionately guides clients beyond defenses to connect with wholeness and peace.
(458) 209-2309 View (458) 209-2309
Photo of Lisa Slover, PsyD, PMH-C, Psychologist
Lisa Slover
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Are you pregnant or in the post-partum period and mentally struggling? I am a mom of four and a perinatal mental health certified clinician. I have extensive experience working with those pregnant, postpartum, and any moms. A few unique subspecialties that I have experience working with are: Nicu stays, traumatic births, miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, and infertility. Are you a teen or college student and feeling overwhelmed? I've been in your shoes and I can help. I offer a supportive, warm, and safe place for you to process your thoughts, trauma, and concerns. Healing is possible, and with help.. you can feel better.
Are you pregnant or in the post-partum period and mentally struggling? I am a mom of four and a perinatal mental health certified clinician. I have extensive experience working with those pregnant, postpartum, and any moms. A few unique subspecialties that I have experience working with are: Nicu stays, traumatic births, miscarriage, stillbirth, infant loss, and infertility. Are you a teen or college student and feeling overwhelmed? I've been in your shoes and I can help. I offer a supportive, warm, and safe place for you to process your thoughts, trauma, and concerns. Healing is possible, and with help.. you can feel better.
(805) 608-4346 View (805) 608-4346
Photo of Linda Suzanne Elma - Life Skills Management Services LLC, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Skills Management Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035  (Online Only)
Living in Oregon offers beauty and diversity, but life’s demands can still feel overwhelming. As a licensed clinical social worker, I’m here to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space to explore challenges like stress, anxiety, and relationship issues. My approach is collaborative and grounded, focusing on practical strategies to build resilience and clarity. Together, we’ll work to create a fulfilling path that aligns with your values and brings a sense of balance. I’d be honored to support you as you navigate life’s journey in Oregon.
Living in Oregon offers beauty and diversity, but life’s demands can still feel overwhelming. As a licensed clinical social worker, I’m here to provide a compassionate, judgment-free space to explore challenges like stress, anxiety, and relationship issues. My approach is collaborative and grounded, focusing on practical strategies to build resilience and clarity. Together, we’ll work to create a fulfilling path that aligns with your values and brings a sense of balance. I’d be honored to support you as you navigate life’s journey in Oregon.
(503) 300-6773 View (503) 300-6773
Photo of Dr. Edward Ewe, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Edward Ewe
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
I help clients navigate emotional pain, frustration, stress, grief, and emotional apathy. My practice specializes in couples counseling, grief and loss, anxiety, anger, depression, and relationship issues, with a focus on attachment styles and building deeper connections. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals and couples in healing from their pain and trauma. At the heart of my approach is the therapeutic relationship, grounded in respect for your unique journey and background. I make it a priority to understand what is most important to you. I am licensed in both Washington and Oregon.
I help clients navigate emotional pain, frustration, stress, grief, and emotional apathy. My practice specializes in couples counseling, grief and loss, anxiety, anger, depression, and relationship issues, with a focus on attachment styles and building deeper connections. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals and couples in healing from their pain and trauma. At the heart of my approach is the therapeutic relationship, grounded in respect for your unique journey and background. I make it a priority to understand what is most important to you. I am licensed in both Washington and Oregon.
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Photo of Wendy Haynes, MA, PhD, LMFT
Wendy Haynes
MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034  (Online Only)
I hold PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I support my clients in achieving greater well being by honing what is genuinely unique and important to them. I teach practices that boost resiliency to stress and inspire self-esteem and self-compassion to bloom. I support my clients in breaking through blocks and in unleashing authentic and dynamic self-expression, so that their values are congruent with their behavior and their intentions and desires become experiences that are truly lived.
I hold PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Psychology. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I support my clients in achieving greater well being by honing what is genuinely unique and important to them. I teach practices that boost resiliency to stress and inspire self-esteem and self-compassion to bloom. I support my clients in breaking through blocks and in unleashing authentic and dynamic self-expression, so that their values are congruent with their behavior and their intentions and desires become experiences that are truly lived.
(503) 342-2158 View (503) 342-2158
Photo of Beverly L Schwartz - SOMA Trauma Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
SOMA Trauma Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
For anyone struggling with debilitating trauma in the aftermath of an automobile accident, SOMA Trauma Therapy can help. Are you afraid to drive, or to be in a vehicle at all? Are you feeling anxious and scared much of the time? Experiencing nightmares and having trouble sleeping? Afraid to leave home? Struggling to focus? Having panic attacks? These symptoms are debilitating, interfering with your recovery and your life. We can help you reclaim your life!
For anyone struggling with debilitating trauma in the aftermath of an automobile accident, SOMA Trauma Therapy can help. Are you afraid to drive, or to be in a vehicle at all? Are you feeling anxious and scared much of the time? Experiencing nightmares and having trouble sleeping? Afraid to leave home? Struggling to focus? Having panic attacks? These symptoms are debilitating, interfering with your recovery and your life. We can help you reclaim your life!
(503) 227-5692 x1 View (503) 227-5692 x1
Photo of Julie Mannon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Mannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Waitlist for new clients
Currently not accepting new clients. Have you found yourself saying, "I've got to stop doing this", only to do it again? Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, sad, anxious, or are you plagued by painful emotions/memories? I've worked with hundreds of people who have struggled with similar concerns. Working together we've found ways to get unstuck and onto a path of increased self-esteem and happiness. Whether the issue is putting unhealthy food or substances into your body, managing emotions, or not effectively communicating, I'm here to help you identify the patterns that are keeping you stuck and gain control.
Currently not accepting new clients. Have you found yourself saying, "I've got to stop doing this", only to do it again? Do you feel stuck, unmotivated, sad, anxious, or are you plagued by painful emotions/memories? I've worked with hundreds of people who have struggled with similar concerns. Working together we've found ways to get unstuck and onto a path of increased self-esteem and happiness. Whether the issue is putting unhealthy food or substances into your body, managing emotions, or not effectively communicating, I'm here to help you identify the patterns that are keeping you stuck and gain control.
(503) 676-5603 View (503) 676-5603
Photo of Anne Sophie Houdek, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Sophie Houdek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Dear Potential Client! Have you lost someone and can't seem to move on? Do you find that unresolved abuse issues still bother you and get in the way of daily functioning? Are you not able to create the intimacy and closeness you desire in relationships and find yourself repeating the same patterns that you know don't work? Is your confidence level not where you want it to be? Do you and your partner struggle with how to best parent? Is anxiety and depression causing you to isolate, worry a lot, lose sleep, feel hopeless? I can help!
Dear Potential Client! Have you lost someone and can't seem to move on? Do you find that unresolved abuse issues still bother you and get in the way of daily functioning? Are you not able to create the intimacy and closeness you desire in relationships and find yourself repeating the same patterns that you know don't work? Is your confidence level not where you want it to be? Do you and your partner struggle with how to best parent? Is anxiety and depression causing you to isolate, worry a lot, lose sleep, feel hopeless? I can help!
(503) 388-5861 View (503) 388-5861
Photo of Natasha Monica Lopez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natasha Monica Lopez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Many people grow up in dysfunction and therefore they relate in inappropriate ways. Clients that I have helped the most typically relate to these dysfunctional ways: They guess at what normal is. They judge themselves without mercy. They have difficulty relaxing and enjoying life. They have difficulty with intimate relationships. They over-react to changes over which they have no control. They constantly seek approval and affirmation. They feel that they are different from other people. They avoid conflict or aggravate it; rarely do they deal with it. They fear failure, but sabotage their success.
Many people grow up in dysfunction and therefore they relate in inappropriate ways. Clients that I have helped the most typically relate to these dysfunctional ways: They guess at what normal is. They judge themselves without mercy. They have difficulty relaxing and enjoying life. They have difficulty with intimate relationships. They over-react to changes over which they have no control. They constantly seek approval and affirmation. They feel that they are different from other people. They avoid conflict or aggravate it; rarely do they deal with it. They fear failure, but sabotage their success.
(503) 836-5216 View (503) 836-5216
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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.