Gestalt Therapists in Newport, OR

Photo of Patty jo Frazier, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patty jo Frazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Newport, OR 97365
Taking the first steps to make life changes takes courage. I'd like to help you simplify and unpack issues so you can be happier, lead a more peaceful, centered life and feel better about yourself and others. Often counselling is the first opportunity to tell your story and say how it really is without fear of judgement or reprisal, or maybe you have always coped by bottling things up and would like to express your feelings. Together we can tackle relationship/family issues, depression, life challenges, grief, aging, health problems or whatever keeps you stuck.
Taking the first steps to make life changes takes courage. I'd like to help you simplify and unpack issues so you can be happier, lead a more peaceful, centered life and feel better about yourself and others. Often counselling is the first opportunity to tell your story and say how it really is without fear of judgement or reprisal, or maybe you have always coped by bottling things up and would like to express your feelings. Together we can tackle relationship/family issues, depression, life challenges, grief, aging, health problems or whatever keeps you stuck.
(541) 819-2549 View (541) 819-2549
Photo of Coretta Fells, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Coretta Fells
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Newport, OR 97365
Hi, I’m currently accepting new clients 18 years and older for solution-focused and goal-oriented therapy. Please contact me for a brief phone meet-and-greet to discuss the life changes that you desire to make. Note: due to efforts to meet my current client's needs it can possibly take up to 6 days for me to return your call. Thank you for understanding.
Hi, I’m currently accepting new clients 18 years and older for solution-focused and goal-oriented therapy. Please contact me for a brief phone meet-and-greet to discuss the life changes that you desire to make. Note: due to efforts to meet my current client's needs it can possibly take up to 6 days for me to return your call. Thank you for understanding.
(541) 272-6128 View (541) 272-6128
Photo of Tracy Jean Goudy, LPC, CADCIII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Jean Goudy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Newport, OR 97365
I employ an eclectic approach to Mental Health and Substance Abuse therapy with a strong reliance on cognitive-behavioral aspects. I believe that everyone has an innate capacity for health and well-being.
I employ an eclectic approach to Mental Health and Substance Abuse therapy with a strong reliance on cognitive-behavioral aspects. I believe that everyone has an innate capacity for health and well-being.
(541) 526-9578 View (541) 526-9578
Photo of Marla Miner Christensen, LMFT, LPC, NCC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marla Miner Christensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport, OR 97365  (Online Only)
Individuals experience circumstances within the context of a system. In relationship therapy, my philosophy is to take into account each person within different systems including, family, couples, children, extended family, and relationships within your workplace. Each individual adds to the dynamic of relationships through his or her experiences. My clinical focus is through the lens of attachment, that is, how are the bonds we are creating effective or ineffective in our current lives. You are the expert in your own experiences. I collaboratively work with you to define, encourage, and assist, in a safe and trusting environment.
Individuals experience circumstances within the context of a system. In relationship therapy, my philosophy is to take into account each person within different systems including, family, couples, children, extended family, and relationships within your workplace. Each individual adds to the dynamic of relationships through his or her experiences. My clinical focus is through the lens of attachment, that is, how are the bonds we are creating effective or ineffective in our current lives. You are the expert in your own experiences. I collaboratively work with you to define, encourage, and assist, in a safe and trusting environment.
(503) 444-9756 View (503) 444-9756

Online Therapists

Photo of Sage Freeburg, MA, CSWA
Sage Freeburg
Clinical Social Work Associate, MA, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
She draws from a variety of theories to support the individual goals of each client, including Interpersonal Neurobiology, Child Centered Play Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Gestalt Therapy, and Attachment Theory.
Sage believes that healing begins in relationship. She hopes to provide a welcoming therapeutic space based on compassion, acceptance, and client autonomy. Sage trusts in the innate wisdom of the children, families, and adults she works with and seeks a collaborative approach as clients move through life's ever-shifting circumstances. She recognizes that healing is different for each individual and that the healing is informed by our cultures, social systems, and environments. Sage works to incorporate these perspectives into the therapeutic space and honors the identities and experiences of the clients she collaborates with.
She draws from a variety of theories to support the individual goals of each client, including Interpersonal Neurobiology, Child Centered Play Therapy, Collaborative Problem Solving, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Gestalt Therapy, and Attachment Theory.
Sage believes that healing begins in relationship. She hopes to provide a welcoming therapeutic space based on compassion, acceptance, and client autonomy. Sage trusts in the innate wisdom of the children, families, and adults she works with and seeks a collaborative approach as clients move through life's ever-shifting circumstances. She recognizes that healing is different for each individual and that the healing is informed by our cultures, social systems, and environments. Sage works to incorporate these perspectives into the therapeutic space and honors the identities and experiences of the clients she collaborates with.
(503) 714-7461 View (503) 714-7461
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 Dr. Pauline Botchway - Assert Your Boundaries Counseling, LLC, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Assert Your Boundaries Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301  (Online Only)
Not Accepting New Clients. My name is Dr. Pauline Botchway, and I strongly believe that, as human beings, we have the ability to change and transform our lives through choice. Since no single theory can capture our experiences as human beings, I utilize an integrated approach that allows me to use some aspects of Gestalt, Existential, and Solution Focused, as well as high utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. In addition to my community mental health, I am including private practice in my line of work. My main goal as a clinician is to help and guide individuals to change their lives to improve everyday living.
Not Accepting New Clients. My name is Dr. Pauline Botchway, and I strongly believe that, as human beings, we have the ability to change and transform our lives through choice. Since no single theory can capture our experiences as human beings, I utilize an integrated approach that allows me to use some aspects of Gestalt, Existential, and Solution Focused, as well as high utilization of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. In addition to my community mental health, I am including private practice in my line of work. My main goal as a clinician is to help and guide individuals to change their lives to improve everyday living.
(541) 648-1060 View (541) 648-1060
Photo of Cam Ericksen, MS , NCC
Cam Ericksen
Professional Counselor Associate, MS , NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
I draw from theories of Gestalt therapy, Somatic practices, and Process Work.
My name is Cam and I am eager to work with people who are ready to dig into their experiences, raise awareness of their processes, and heal past and current wounds. I hold several privileged and marginalized identities that inform the way I support people. Existing in an oppressive system, that at times told me I did not belong, has given me the empathy to support people who have felt othered, unseen, underserved, and underrepresented. My hope is to offer a therapeutic relationship that builds your self supports and bridges environmental supports to communities you are a part of or building.
I draw from theories of Gestalt therapy, Somatic practices, and Process Work.
My name is Cam and I am eager to work with people who are ready to dig into their experiences, raise awareness of their processes, and heal past and current wounds. I hold several privileged and marginalized identities that inform the way I support people. Existing in an oppressive system, that at times told me I did not belong, has given me the empathy to support people who have felt othered, unseen, underserved, and underrepresented. My hope is to offer a therapeutic relationship that builds your self supports and bridges environmental supports to communities you are a part of or building.
(971) 396-1473 View (971) 396-1473
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 Katya Stark - Stark Counseling , MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stark Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
In my work, I apply Gestalt, somatic, Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), and Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methods.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples whose challenges with interpersonal relationships are due to anxiety, depression, and/or past traumatic events. My clients with the best outcomes are willing to engage in deep dialogues, complete "homework" between sessions, and are comfortable with a "hands-on approach” in therapy. I am a good fit for people struggling with social anxiety, depression, religious trauma, life transitions, procrastination, or relationship issues. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA + community and can help people questioning gender identity and heteronormativity.
In my work, I apply Gestalt, somatic, Dialectical Behavioral (DBT), and Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methods.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples whose challenges with interpersonal relationships are due to anxiety, depression, and/or past traumatic events. My clients with the best outcomes are willing to engage in deep dialogues, complete "homework" between sessions, and are comfortable with a "hands-on approach” in therapy. I am a good fit for people struggling with social anxiety, depression, religious trauma, life transitions, procrastination, or relationship issues. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA + community and can help people questioning gender identity and heteronormativity.
(503) 461-8894 View (503) 461-8894
Photo of Megan S Samsel, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Megan S Samsel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I utilize Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Emotions Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
Whether we are exploring the relationship we have with ourselves or with others, I believe compassion and loving-presence are essential to understanding the parts of ourselves that feel tender and/or condemned. It isn’t uncommon for these tender parts to appear to be stuck in patterns that seem to further disconnect us from ourselves and others. I specialize in working with couples and individuals who are neurodivergent, and/or have complex trauma. My work is anti-oppressive, relational, humorous, and client-centered.
I utilize Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Emotions Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
Whether we are exploring the relationship we have with ourselves or with others, I believe compassion and loving-presence are essential to understanding the parts of ourselves that feel tender and/or condemned. It isn’t uncommon for these tender parts to appear to be stuck in patterns that seem to further disconnect us from ourselves and others. I specialize in working with couples and individuals who are neurodivergent, and/or have complex trauma. My work is anti-oppressive, relational, humorous, and client-centered.
(971) 298-7928 View (971) 298-7928
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 Kennedy Hanson, MS, NCC
Kennedy Hanson
Professional Counselor Associate , MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
Hi! I’m Kennedy and I am passionate about working through complex trauma, especially with folks who have been historically harmed by oppressive systems. I enjoy working with clients who identify as Queer, Trans, and/or Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. I work with both individual clients or folks who are in relationship; whether it's romantic, platonic, or familial. I utilize a noncarceral lens, and draw on Black and Indigenous political and healing traditions. I draw on the theories of Gestalt, Somatics, and Expressive Arts Therapy. I value experiential techniques and being flexible with the clients comfortability and needs.
Hi! I’m Kennedy and I am passionate about working through complex trauma, especially with folks who have been historically harmed by oppressive systems. I enjoy working with clients who identify as Queer, Trans, and/or Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. I work with both individual clients or folks who are in relationship; whether it's romantic, platonic, or familial. I utilize a noncarceral lens, and draw on Black and Indigenous political and healing traditions. I draw on the theories of Gestalt, Somatics, and Expressive Arts Therapy. I value experiential techniques and being flexible with the clients comfortability and needs.
(971) 417-3287 View (971) 417-3287
Photo of Jamie Berkowitz, PCA
Jamie Berkowitz
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I blend a number of approaches, including Relational Life Therapy, EFT, Gottman Method, Attachment, Somatic, Gestalt, IFS, Existentialism, and Psychodynamic therapies and theories.
I work with couples emphasizing non-traditional, queer, and marginalized genders, sexualities, and identities who feel stuck, hopeless, frustrated, and want to return to, build for the first time, or reinforce a relationship of compassion, love, acceptance, commitment, and desire; one where you feel like you're on the same team vs. battling opponents wondering "how did we get here?" I work with folks who want to explore communication issues, polyamory/ENM, kink, differing levels of desire, ambivalence, jealousy, power and control issues, curiosities about uncoupling consciously, and more.
I blend a number of approaches, including Relational Life Therapy, EFT, Gottman Method, Attachment, Somatic, Gestalt, IFS, Existentialism, and Psychodynamic therapies and theories.
I work with couples emphasizing non-traditional, queer, and marginalized genders, sexualities, and identities who feel stuck, hopeless, frustrated, and want to return to, build for the first time, or reinforce a relationship of compassion, love, acceptance, commitment, and desire; one where you feel like you're on the same team vs. battling opponents wondering "how did we get here?" I work with folks who want to explore communication issues, polyamory/ENM, kink, differing levels of desire, ambivalence, jealousy, power and control issues, curiosities about uncoupling consciously, and more.
(503) 455-7586 View (503) 455-7586
Photo of Katie Solomon, Pre-Licensed Professional
Katie Solomon
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (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 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 Carolyn Taylor, LMFT, MA, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Eugene, OR 97401
Waitlist for new clients
Integrating Narrative, Gestalt, CogB, Psychodynamic, and Trauma therapies, my role becomes helping you hear yourself, rediscover your truths, and expand your choices on your path to greater fulfillment and serenity.
Finding grace and serenity and balance in life is no easy task - even with the foundation of a supportive, liberating childhood; miraculously healthy personal boundaries; and true friends, colleagues, mentors, and lovers. Self-sabotage, self-doubt, seemingly mistaken paths: we're all vulnerable. We find ourselves yearning for an elusive guidebook - to rewrite our lifestory or escape from sometimes paralyzing anguish. All the more so if an overlay of fresh or longstanding trauma (heartbreak, grief, abuse, crises of health, home, or employment) overwhelms and destabilizes us or undermines our ability to trust, to forgive our missteps, even to breathe deep.
Integrating Narrative, Gestalt, CogB, Psychodynamic, and Trauma therapies, my role becomes helping you hear yourself, rediscover your truths, and expand your choices on your path to greater fulfillment and serenity.
Finding grace and serenity and balance in life is no easy task - even with the foundation of a supportive, liberating childhood; miraculously healthy personal boundaries; and true friends, colleagues, mentors, and lovers. Self-sabotage, self-doubt, seemingly mistaken paths: we're all vulnerable. We find ourselves yearning for an elusive guidebook - to rewrite our lifestory or escape from sometimes paralyzing anguish. All the more so if an overlay of fresh or longstanding trauma (heartbreak, grief, abuse, crises of health, home, or employment) overwhelms and destabilizes us or undermines our ability to trust, to forgive our missteps, even to breathe deep.
(541) 238-9298 View (541) 238-9298
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 Jonathan O Chrystal, PsyD, Psychologist
Jonathan O Chrystal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I provide individual therapy from a humanistic, gestalt, and somatic approach.
You may be struggling to adapt to changes in your life and feeling worried, down, or lost. We all respond to challenges in unique and creative ways, and these ways of adapting can make us less flexible, leading to problems in other areas of our lives. Perhaps this is impacting your relationships and how you feel about yourself. You might be having trouble understanding and expressing your thoughts and feelings. It can be difficult to heal from the past, find joy and comfort in the present, and choose the right path. I look forward to helping you make meaning from challenging experiences, and discover a greater sense of purpose.
I provide individual therapy from a humanistic, gestalt, and somatic approach.
You may be struggling to adapt to changes in your life and feeling worried, down, or lost. We all respond to challenges in unique and creative ways, and these ways of adapting can make us less flexible, leading to problems in other areas of our lives. Perhaps this is impacting your relationships and how you feel about yourself. You might be having trouble understanding and expressing your thoughts and feelings. It can be difficult to heal from the past, find joy and comfort in the present, and choose the right path. I look forward to helping you make meaning from challenging experiences, and discover a greater sense of purpose.
(503) 483-5713 View (503) 483-5713
Photo of Grace Spring, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace Spring
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate several therapeutic modalities into my work including Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic/Embodiment work, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
My therapeutic work is grounded in the understanding that we all seek connection, acceptance, safety, and belonging. I emphasize a trauma-informed approach to counseling, which means I prioritize a strong relational foundation of trust. At my core, I trust in your intrinsic orientation towards healing and wholeness. This wisdom is what will help guide you on your therapeutic journey. I see my role, as your therapist, to be one in which I accompany you on your unique path.
I incorporate several therapeutic modalities into my work including Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Somatic/Embodiment work, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
My therapeutic work is grounded in the understanding that we all seek connection, acceptance, safety, and belonging. I emphasize a trauma-informed approach to counseling, which means I prioritize a strong relational foundation of trust. At my core, I trust in your intrinsic orientation towards healing and wholeness. This wisdom is what will help guide you on your therapeutic journey. I see my role, as your therapist, to be one in which I accompany you on your unique path.
(971) 396-3192 View (971) 396-3192

Nearby Gestalt Therapists Searches for Newport

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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.