Gestalt Therapists in Salem, OR
![Photo of Dr. Pauline Botchway - Assert Your Boundaries Counseling, LLC, PhD, LPC, LMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/284d2836-9d4d-419e-9805-dd6ca3ad78dd/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Sarah Theisen, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2f00529-3533-4ef2-904e-aad36d2a11bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a framework that pulls concepts from person centered therapy, gestalt and some humanistic/existential ideas and concepts .
I provide non-judgmental, supportive counseling to individual adolescents ages 15 and up, and adults who might be experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, difficulty with life transitions, stress, and trauma. We all experience both tranquility and turmoil throughout our lives at different times. As we grow and learn through these experiences reaching out for help is a powerful thing that can help you regain control of your life at a time when you might feel lost. With my compassion, active listening skills, and empathetic approach to counseling my goal is that I can help guide you to regain that control.
I use a framework that pulls concepts from person centered therapy, gestalt and some humanistic/existential ideas and concepts .
I provide non-judgmental, supportive counseling to individual adolescents ages 15 and up, and adults who might be experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, difficulty with life transitions, stress, and trauma. We all experience both tranquility and turmoil throughout our lives at different times. As we grow and learn through these experiences reaching out for help is a powerful thing that can help you regain control of your life at a time when you might feel lost. With my compassion, active listening skills, and empathetic approach to counseling my goal is that I can help guide you to regain that control.
![Photo of Laney Kibel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451f5d07-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laney Kibel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97303 (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).
![Photo of Melissa Rose Sanders, MA, LPC-A, CADC-I, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/896f0b4b-cab5-4712-9392-e5a744c913a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Rose Sanders
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-A, CADC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I use a Person Centered approach using Gestalt, Somatic awareness, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, DBT, CBT and creative expressive tools.
Currently Accepting Clients for July 2024. As your therapist, I strive to create a safe space to process, set goals, and work on making meaningful change in your life. Right now you may feel "stuck" and unsure of how to move forward. You are dealing with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety or other complications that are making life difficult and make your feel disconnected from yourself and others. I believe that together we can work towards helping you feel more joy, motivation, and empowerment in your life.
I use a Person Centered approach using Gestalt, Somatic awareness, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, DBT, CBT and creative expressive tools.
Currently Accepting Clients for July 2024. As your therapist, I strive to create a safe space to process, set goals, and work on making meaningful change in your life. Right now you may feel "stuck" and unsure of how to move forward. You are dealing with unresolved trauma, depression, anxiety or other complications that are making life difficult and make your feel disconnected from yourself and others. I believe that together we can work towards helping you feel more joy, motivation, and empowerment in your life.
![Photo of Colby Schneider, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24dc9241-310e-4d10-a882-3c828e7204a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Hiilei Battistini, LPC, CCSOT, CADC-R, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6090fce-f1e2-49d0-92f1-3f1063637bda/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hiilei Battistini
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCSOT, CADC-R
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
We are available immediately to work with individuals looking for support and guidance in navigating life challenges. They may be struggling with mood disorders, severe persistent mental illness, grief and loss, or adjustment disorders with goals to find ways to cope with their challenges, improve their mental health and well-being, and lead a fulfilling life. They want to regain a sense of balance, peace, and purpose and are seeking understanding, intervention, and support to help them achieve these goals.
We are available immediately to work with individuals looking for support and guidance in navigating life challenges. They may be struggling with mood disorders, severe persistent mental illness, grief and loss, or adjustment disorders with goals to find ways to cope with their challenges, improve their mental health and well-being, and lead a fulfilling life. They want to regain a sense of balance, peace, and purpose and are seeking understanding, intervention, and support to help them achieve these goals.
![Photo of Brad Dehler, MSW, QMHP, LMHP, CCSOT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dd65eb6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brad Dehler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, QMHP, LMHP, CCSOT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
I have worked with varied populations throughout Louisiana and Oregon; most often with male & female adults, couples, adolescents, and children ages 7-11. I have addressed multiple varied needs including sexual dysfunction, gang activity, drug use, domestic violence, PTSD, personality, mood disorders as well as relationship issues. **Education: I have a bachelor's degree (4 years) in Psychology (Oregon State University, Corvallis). I also have (one year) education (Holy Cross College, New Orleans, Louisiana) in Marriage and Family Therapy. I acquired a master's degree in Social Work (3 year master's program) from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon.
I have worked with varied populations throughout Louisiana and Oregon; most often with male & female adults, couples, adolescents, and children ages 7-11. I have addressed multiple varied needs including sexual dysfunction, gang activity, drug use, domestic violence, PTSD, personality, mood disorders as well as relationship issues. **Education: I have a bachelor's degree (4 years) in Psychology (Oregon State University, Corvallis). I also have (one year) education (Holy Cross College, New Orleans, Louisiana) in Marriage and Family Therapy. I acquired a master's degree in Social Work (3 year master's program) from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon.
![Photo of Amy Nicole Cozad, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71ef6b7e-bdd0-48df-8c21-d9423e8cfc33/3/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Clients- Life is full of challenges and unexpected events in today’s world. I invite you to take a journey with me to recognize and define the issues that have been impacting your life. I hold deep empathy for all my clients as they are undergoing life transitions with the intention of self-growth and awareness. I also hold space for couples to find new healing patterns and conflict resolution and relationship maintenance and growth. I value holding a judgment-free and accepting and safe space. Where you are in charge of the direction of your session and where your healing begins.
Now Accepting New Clients- Life is full of challenges and unexpected events in today’s world. I invite you to take a journey with me to recognize and define the issues that have been impacting your life. I hold deep empathy for all my clients as they are undergoing life transitions with the intention of self-growth and awareness. I also hold space for couples to find new healing patterns and conflict resolution and relationship maintenance and growth. I value holding a judgment-free and accepting and safe space. Where you are in charge of the direction of your session and where your healing begins.
![Photo of Sarah Archer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48205200-40cc-4d72-879c-978285f691ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Archer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Waitlist for new clients
If you feel like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, or that your traumatic experiences are robbing the color from life, or that you just don't know how to function anymore, I am here to extend a warm invitation to contact me. I work with people who are struggling with adulting, anxiety and depression, relationship hardships, self esteem, and traumatic experiences. I understand that asking for help can be a hard first step, and I offer a free consultation and a soft place to land. I come from the approach that our relationship is the most important aspect of our work together.
If you feel like you're carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, or that your traumatic experiences are robbing the color from life, or that you just don't know how to function anymore, I am here to extend a warm invitation to contact me. I work with people who are struggling with adulting, anxiety and depression, relationship hardships, self esteem, and traumatic experiences. I understand that asking for help can be a hard first step, and I offer a free consultation and a soft place to land. I come from the approach that our relationship is the most important aspect of our work together.
![Photo of Joleena Abrams, CCTSA, CBTC, CMEMI, CFMTS, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7abbc77-6683-4691-a718-24e2f5fd2f9e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Joleena is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, and a Certified Functional Medicine and Trauma Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling. She specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
Joleena is Certified in the Treatment of Sexual Addiction, is a Certified Betrayal Trauma Coach, a Certified Clinical Trauma and Addiction Specialist, and a Certified Functional Medicine and Trauma Specialist, with a Masters of Psychology in Grief Counseling. She specializes in helping couples working through betrayal and addiction of all kinds. She also works with clients that are struggling with anxiety, addictive behaviors, depression, PTSD, emotional abuse, mental abuse and trauma of various kinds. Her passion is to provide a safe space for her clients and to walk hand-in-hand with them, guiding them through the healing process.
![Photo of Ali Layton, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/661459c9-c6d8-4fd6-813c-5e7e386a37ce/2/320x400.jpeg)
By introduction I am a proponent of using life as the best teacher. For over thirty years I have learned through many personal experiences with family mental illness and crisis that telling our stories is crucial to healing. Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is my chosen counseling approach that aids you as the client to discover solutions in your journey of therapy. Collaboratively my goal is to be a guide in your personal work to healing. I aspire to include Mindfulness techniques and integrating various interventions best suited to the individual to create a safe haven for positive change and growth.
By introduction I am a proponent of using life as the best teacher. For over thirty years I have learned through many personal experiences with family mental illness and crisis that telling our stories is crucial to healing. Solution-focused brief therapy (SFBT) is my chosen counseling approach that aids you as the client to discover solutions in your journey of therapy. Collaboratively my goal is to be a guide in your personal work to healing. I aspire to include Mindfulness techniques and integrating various interventions best suited to the individual to create a safe haven for positive change and growth.
15 Second Videos
Laney Kibel
Kelly Winter
Shannon Champagne
![Photo of Leah Mangis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ec5f3ce-034f-4891-a77a-80504779b94b/2/320x400.jpeg)
There is hope! Starting therapy takes a lot of courage and bravery, especially if you are wanting to heal from trauma(s). I utilize a mind-body-spirit, holistic approach to therapy. Whether this be your first time coming to therapy or you are coming back again, welcome. My approach is strength-based and client focused. I believe in order to achieve your goals, practice of coping skills is imperative. Light homework is assigned if you choose a trauma therapy or specialized treatment.
There is hope! Starting therapy takes a lot of courage and bravery, especially if you are wanting to heal from trauma(s). I utilize a mind-body-spirit, holistic approach to therapy. Whether this be your first time coming to therapy or you are coming back again, welcome. My approach is strength-based and client focused. I believe in order to achieve your goals, practice of coping skills is imperative. Light homework is assigned if you choose a trauma therapy or specialized treatment.
![Photo of Scott K Elmore, PsyD, LPC, CCSOT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8a4a565-331d-497f-96a8-8a4db41e6a2f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Scott K Elmore
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, CCSOT
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings neighbors. I am a person-centered therapist. I believe you are the expert of your life, and it’s my job to help you identify and overcome obstacles in life that are keeping you from experiencing true happiness and joy. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are facing difficult challenges in their lives, by being supportive, affirming, and helping identify unwanted and disruptive behaviors and thinking patterns.
Greetings neighbors. I am a person-centered therapist. I believe you are the expert of your life, and it’s my job to help you identify and overcome obstacles in life that are keeping you from experiencing true happiness and joy. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are facing difficult challenges in their lives, by being supportive, affirming, and helping identify unwanted and disruptive behaviors and thinking patterns.
![Photo of Don Erickson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7cbf308-af34-44b9-8dbf-2927515a3afa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Don Erickson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301 (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients though currently only in teletherapy. My general approach is called rational eclecticism; using the most effective therapeutic approach to address each individual's unique issues. I’m increasingly focusing on trauma and toxic stress and the ways it often shows up as depression, anxiety, sadness and at times a loss of identity. Some clients beginning counseling remember feeling joy, excitement, or self-confidence that they rarely if ever feel when they first begin therapy. The people I’ve been working with have been finding this approach to somatic therapy very helpful and frequently, transformative.
I am accepting new clients though currently only in teletherapy. My general approach is called rational eclecticism; using the most effective therapeutic approach to address each individual's unique issues. I’m increasingly focusing on trauma and toxic stress and the ways it often shows up as depression, anxiety, sadness and at times a loss of identity. Some clients beginning counseling remember feeling joy, excitement, or self-confidence that they rarely if ever feel when they first begin therapy. The people I’ve been working with have been finding this approach to somatic therapy very helpful and frequently, transformative.
![Photo of Miranda Featherstone, MS, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0ed97f3d-6b66-4091-b91b-a2502a7abebb/3/320x400.jpeg)
Miranda Featherstone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
There are periods in life when it is difficult to see a way forward. If you are here, my guess is that you're struggling--you may be grieving a loss or struggling to accept difficult life changes. Or maybe you've been feeling stressed out and lost for a long time and aren't sure where to turn. Whatever the circumstances, it is my deep desire to see you rediscover happiness and purpose-- I wholeheartedly believe that counseling can help you get there. In the midst of darkness and chaos, it can be hard to see the road ahead. In therapy, I will journey beside you as you find your path and support you in building the courage to walk it.
There are periods in life when it is difficult to see a way forward. If you are here, my guess is that you're struggling--you may be grieving a loss or struggling to accept difficult life changes. Or maybe you've been feeling stressed out and lost for a long time and aren't sure where to turn. Whatever the circumstances, it is my deep desire to see you rediscover happiness and purpose-- I wholeheartedly believe that counseling can help you get there. In the midst of darkness and chaos, it can be hard to see the road ahead. In therapy, I will journey beside you as you find your path and support you in building the courage to walk it.
![Photo of Rebecca Nelson - Lets Grow Counseling Services LLC, RMHCI](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5960728-e4df-4050-b930-2b4e3bcecf6f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lets Grow Counseling Services LLC
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301
Hi, I'm Becka. I help clients that are struggling in their relationships find meaning and connection with their partner. If your goal is to be more connected with your partner, have deeper conversations, and learn how to handle conflicts together, then your in the right place. I also help those with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, change of life circumstances, and LGBTQIA+ individuals/couples. I help individuals and couples making life transitions. Examples include: New job, new baby, or the passing of a loved one. If your goal is to gain control of your life, and improve your life then your in the right place.
Hi, I'm Becka. I help clients that are struggling in their relationships find meaning and connection with their partner. If your goal is to be more connected with your partner, have deeper conversations, and learn how to handle conflicts together, then your in the right place. I also help those with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, change of life circumstances, and LGBTQIA+ individuals/couples. I help individuals and couples making life transitions. Examples include: New job, new baby, or the passing of a loved one. If your goal is to gain control of your life, and improve your life then your in the right place.
![Photo of Shirley Gutierrez, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/274e03b1-3da2-419d-aed7-1f9bab0a2b39/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shirley Gutierrez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
Have you ever felt as if you’ve never fit in, perhaps from your earliest memories? Or been told that you’re too sensitive, compared negatively to others, or the "black sheep" of the family? You may feel as if nothing you do is good enough. So far, doing the opposite of what you were raised with has gotten you through life, but memories, resentment, & shame, cloud the happy moments. That feeling of "there has to be more to life" is there, but you're unsure how to begin. Breaking the cycle is hard, but you don't have to do it alone any longer.
Have you ever felt as if you’ve never fit in, perhaps from your earliest memories? Or been told that you’re too sensitive, compared negatively to others, or the "black sheep" of the family? You may feel as if nothing you do is good enough. So far, doing the opposite of what you were raised with has gotten you through life, but memories, resentment, & shame, cloud the happy moments. That feeling of "there has to be more to life" is there, but you're unsure how to begin. Breaking the cycle is hard, but you don't have to do it alone any longer.
![Photo of Amanda Terry, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6a725b9-49a5-47ab-8544-123bd6b9c811/1/320x400.jpeg)
Those who find that anxiety and/or depression have become intrusive in their life, when trying to cope with life transitions becomes difficult, when you need non-judgemental support to help you through a difficult time.
Those who find that anxiety and/or depression have become intrusive in their life, when trying to cope with life transitions becomes difficult, when you need non-judgemental support to help you through a difficult time.
![Photo of Nancy L Link, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/908b1798-4a75-45f5-959b-7ce8df99f785/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nancy L Link
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Salem, OR 97301 (Online Only)
Over 30 years experience as a licensed counselor. Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I can help you. I believe that growth is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults and families. My training and experience is extensive. It includes being certified as a DEH@ practitioner, individual, couple, family therapy, Play/Sand/Art Therapy, hypnosis, and Spiritual Direction/life path exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, trained in Spiritual direction, and certified in delivery of Tele Mental Health services.
Over 30 years experience as a licensed counselor. Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I can help you. I believe that growth is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults and families. My training and experience is extensive. It includes being certified as a DEH@ practitioner, individual, couple, family therapy, Play/Sand/Art Therapy, hypnosis, and Spiritual Direction/life path exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, trained in Spiritual direction, and certified in delivery of Tele Mental Health services.
![Photo of M. Declan McCarron, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ef432b1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
M. Declan McCarron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salem, OR 97301
I believe everyone deserves to be content/happy in life and in their relationships. At times, this can be challenging and people tend to get "stuck." Asking for help can be hard, but so rewarding when you take the risk to change and build awareness. With professional skills, loads of compassion, and a collaborative effort I can definitely help adults, teenagers, and families in figuring out how to get "unstuck" and enjoy their lives to the fullest. I have extensive experience working with anxiety, grief, depression, and PTSD. I particularly like working with clients, helping them free themselves from the trauma of the past.
I believe everyone deserves to be content/happy in life and in their relationships. At times, this can be challenging and people tend to get "stuck." Asking for help can be hard, but so rewarding when you take the risk to change and build awareness. With professional skills, loads of compassion, and a collaborative effort I can definitely help adults, teenagers, and families in figuring out how to get "unstuck" and enjoy their lives to the fullest. I have extensive experience working with anxiety, grief, depression, and PTSD. I particularly like working with clients, helping them free themselves from the trauma of the past.
See more therapy options for Salem
Nearby Gestalt Therapists Searches for Salem
- Albany
- Corvallis
- Keizer
- Lake Oswego
- McMinnville
- Newberg
- Oregon City
- Philomath
- Sherwood
- Silverton
- Tualatin
- West Linn
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.