Gestalt Therapists in West Linn, OR

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 Konrad von Walther - Konrad von Walther Lcsw LLC, CADC, I, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Konrad von Walther Lcsw LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CADC, I, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Linn, OR 97068
I AM accepting clients at this time. If you desire results, welcome. I offer HIPAA secure video conference and face-to-face therapy. I work with people feeling unsatisfied with their current life and emotional situations, looking for a deeper sense of fulfillment, connection, and/or balance in their lives. I help find the connection between their thoughts and feelings. I explore how desires manifest themselves as: depression, anxiety, fears, disinterest, grief, low self-esteem, etc. I also explore how these impact their body. He offers spiritual guidance and perspectives to those that wish. Labor issue therapist/legal ref.
I AM accepting clients at this time. If you desire results, welcome. I offer HIPAA secure video conference and face-to-face therapy. I work with people feeling unsatisfied with their current life and emotional situations, looking for a deeper sense of fulfillment, connection, and/or balance in their lives. I help find the connection between their thoughts and feelings. I explore how desires manifest themselves as: depression, anxiety, fears, disinterest, grief, low self-esteem, etc. I also explore how these impact their body. He offers spiritual guidance and perspectives to those that wish. Labor issue therapist/legal ref.
(503) 512-6042 View (503) 512-6042
Photo of Marlena Johnson - Living Tree Wellness Center LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Living Tree Wellness Center LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Linn, OR 97068
Have you ever wondered why you cannot stop reacting to certain situations in an ineffective way? Does this patter of problem solving leave you exhausted after reliving painful experiences that prevent you from having the healthy loving relationships you long for? If you answered yes it may be time to talk with one of our clinicians. If you have a pattern of behavior’s that make life unmanageable, we may be able to help.
Have you ever wondered why you cannot stop reacting to certain situations in an ineffective way? Does this patter of problem solving leave you exhausted after reliving painful experiences that prevent you from having the healthy loving relationships you long for? If you answered yes it may be time to talk with one of our clinicians. If you have a pattern of behavior’s that make life unmanageable, we may be able to help.
(503) 386-0074 View (503) 386-0074
Photo of Margaret M. Kelleher, PsyD, Psychologist
Margaret M. Kelleher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Linn, OR 97068  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My professional belief is that beginning psychotherapy is like embarking on a "Hero's Journey". Clients brave facing their fears in a safe, secure environment in order to create the lives they want to live. Many times, I meet clients who think that therapy is about fixing what is "wrong" with them. I believe, however, that therapy is really more about fostering clients' ability to connect with what is "right" with them. I support people in fully embracing who and what they really are - without fears. It would be my privilege to be your guide on this journey.
My professional belief is that beginning psychotherapy is like embarking on a "Hero's Journey". Clients brave facing their fears in a safe, secure environment in order to create the lives they want to live. Many times, I meet clients who think that therapy is about fixing what is "wrong" with them. I believe, however, that therapy is really more about fostering clients' ability to connect with what is "right" with them. I support people in fully embracing who and what they really are - without fears. It would be my privilege to be your guide on this journey.
(503) 444-9808 View (503) 444-9808
Photo of Steven Ruiz Bettencourt, PsyD, LPC, CHT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Ruiz Bettencourt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, CHT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Linn, OR 97068
Waitlist for new clients
I am a compassionate and intuitive licensed psychotherapist & hypnotist. I have been practicing for 40 years. I specialize in anger management, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties/couples counseling, motivation, personality disorders, EMDR and hypnosis for a variety of issues. I am a member of the Oregon Counseling Association, American Counseling Association, National Anger Management Association, Oregon Mediation Association, and I am a board member of the Oregon Hypnotherapy Association, and President of World Musado Federation. I am familiar with Spanish, as my father is from Spain although I am not fluent.
I am a compassionate and intuitive licensed psychotherapist & hypnotist. I have been practicing for 40 years. I specialize in anger management, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties/couples counseling, motivation, personality disorders, EMDR and hypnosis for a variety of issues. I am a member of the Oregon Counseling Association, American Counseling Association, National Anger Management Association, Oregon Mediation Association, and I am a board member of the Oregon Hypnotherapy Association, and President of World Musado Federation. I am familiar with Spanish, as my father is from Spain although I am not fluent.
(503) 496-7421 View (503) 496-7421
Photo of Caroline McGrath, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline McGrath
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Linn, OR 97068
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 Lynae Nelson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynae Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
West Linn, OR 97068
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 Mackenzie Phelps, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mackenzie Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Linn, OR 97068
I am passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, including adolescents, teens, young adults, pre-marital couples, families, and LGBTQIA+ clients. I do not work with couples navigating separation or divorce at this time. My areas of practice include life transitions, stress and anxiety management, communication, self-esteem, empowerment, and the intersection of faith/spirituality with mental health.
I am passionate about supporting individuals across the lifespan, including adolescents, teens, young adults, pre-marital couples, families, and LGBTQIA+ clients. I do not work with couples navigating separation or divorce at this time. My areas of practice include life transitions, stress and anxiety management, communication, self-esteem, empowerment, and the intersection of faith/spirituality with mental health.
(971) 999-2763 View (971) 999-2763
Photo of Karen Harris, MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Linn, OR 97068
Searching for a therapist can feel overwhelming, glad you are taking the time to find the support you need. I am accepting new clients. Deeply emotional? Sensory overload? Burnout? Body pains/illness not medically explained? Maybe you are experiencing midlife changes? I practice a mixture of somatic therapy and parts work which helps you integrate your body and emotions in a way that is not overwhelming and that promotes having a positive relationship with yourself. I work with clients that have experienced trauma, clients struggling with anxiety, depression, deep feeling of not belonging, and grief.
Searching for a therapist can feel overwhelming, glad you are taking the time to find the support you need. I am accepting new clients. Deeply emotional? Sensory overload? Burnout? Body pains/illness not medically explained? Maybe you are experiencing midlife changes? I practice a mixture of somatic therapy and parts work which helps you integrate your body and emotions in a way that is not overwhelming and that promotes having a positive relationship with yourself. I work with clients that have experienced trauma, clients struggling with anxiety, depression, deep feeling of not belonging, and grief.
(971) 270-1549 View (971) 270-1549

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melinda Arnold, MA, LPC, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I use treatments theories such as Internal Family Systems, Attachment, and Developmental in conjunction with AEDP, Gestalt, interpersonal, CBT, EMDR and Solution-Focused Brief therapy techniques to treat the emotional and relational issues listed above.
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
I use treatments theories such as Internal Family Systems, Attachment, and Developmental in conjunction with AEDP, Gestalt, interpersonal, CBT, EMDR and Solution-Focused Brief therapy techniques to treat the emotional and relational issues listed above.
(Now providing supervision for associate counselors) I work with individuals and couples looking for help overcoming trauma, sexual abuse, sexual dysfunction, anxiety, relational distress and life transitions. We can start with a free phone consult to ensure that I am a good fit. I am also happy to help connect you to another therapist if we determine there is a better fit for you. I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Multnomah University in 2012 and have achieved a certification as a sex therapist since. It is my privilege to share in the stories of my clients and do my best to guide them to a place of healing.
(503) 406-8848 View (503) 406-8848
Photo of Yerim Park, LPC, MSW, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yerim Park
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
I utilize many therapy skills based on the client's needs such as Play therapy for Kids, Art therapy for adults, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, Adlerian, Gestalt, Gottman Method, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Neuroscience, Culturally Sensitive, and so on.
I only accept Trillium and OHP. No matter how big the issue is, the possibility exists for you to become a better you and handle your issues. I have over 13 years working as a multicultural counselor and psychiatric social worker both in Oregon State and South Korea. My therapeutic approach is authentic/direct and compassionate. In therapy, I explore where the problems began and what factors perpetuate the problems. I view counseling as a collaborative effort between me and my clients. Children's play therapy is one of my specialties. Email me and share your concerns. No phone calls please.
I utilize many therapy skills based on the client's needs such as Play therapy for Kids, Art therapy for adults, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Christian Counseling, Adlerian, Gestalt, Gottman Method, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Neuroscience, Culturally Sensitive, and so on.
I only accept Trillium and OHP. No matter how big the issue is, the possibility exists for you to become a better you and handle your issues. I have over 13 years working as a multicultural counselor and psychiatric social worker both in Oregon State and South Korea. My therapeutic approach is authentic/direct and compassionate. In therapy, I explore where the problems began and what factors perpetuate the problems. I view counseling as a collaborative effort between me and my clients. Children's play therapy is one of my specialties. Email me and share your concerns. No phone calls please.
(503) 832-5107 View (503) 832-5107
Photo of Vicki Templeton, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Vicki Templeton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97224
I use a variety of techniques such as writing, talk, art, metaphors, and Gestalt to assist clients in moving from a place to pain to peace and purpose.
I am passionate about working with young adults and women. I have worked with a variety of clients, many of whom are experiencing a loss of trust, stability, love or hope in their lives, and are trying to find a place of safety and healing. Finding a therapist you connect with is crucial to your journey. I believe in the power of a great connection and strive to create a space where each person feels heard and valued on their unique path to wellness. My style is warm, thoughtful and calm. I combine it with a direct approach of finding ways to help you navigate a happier way of being in the world.
I use a variety of techniques such as writing, talk, art, metaphors, and Gestalt to assist clients in moving from a place to pain to peace and purpose.
I am passionate about working with young adults and women. I have worked with a variety of clients, many of whom are experiencing a loss of trust, stability, love or hope in their lives, and are trying to find a place of safety and healing. Finding a therapist you connect with is crucial to your journey. I believe in the power of a great connection and strive to create a space where each person feels heard and valued on their unique path to wellness. My style is warm, thoughtful and calm. I combine it with a direct approach of finding ways to help you navigate a happier way of being in the world.
(971) 328-4165 View (971) 328-4165
Photo of Karim Dabliz, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karim Dabliz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201  (Online Only)
My clinical approach is grounded Gestalt and IFS theories that seek to build awareness in the present moment by exploring how you make meaning of the world.
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Portland, Oregon. I am originally from Lebanon and moved to the US 10 years ago. I love to help individuals gain more awareness into the unhelpful patterns in their life through higher self esteem, self confidence, and boundaries. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I have significant experience in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds.
My clinical approach is grounded Gestalt and IFS theories that seek to build awareness in the present moment by exploring how you make meaning of the world.
My name is Karim (he/him) and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor located in Portland, Oregon. I am originally from Lebanon and moved to the US 10 years ago. I love to help individuals gain more awareness into the unhelpful patterns in their life through higher self esteem, self confidence, and boundaries. I am passionate about helping you live your life with more authenticity and freedom. I have significant experience in working with refugees, immigrants, and multicultural backgrounds.
(971) 571-5721 View (971) 571-5721
Photo of Christine Kenline, MA, C-IAYT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christine Kenline
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My intention is to provide a safe and compassionate container for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. A supportive space guides you toward slowing down and turning inward to tap into your true self. I believe the most beautiful gift you can offer the world is your fully aware, individuated, and integrated self, which allows you to cultivate genuine connections with yourself, others, and the world around you. I weave together my background in social science research and yoga movement therapy with mindfulness-based, body-centered therapies such as Transpersonal, Hakomi, and Gestalt to be with what's arising for you right now.
My intention is to provide a safe and compassionate container for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. A supportive space guides you toward slowing down and turning inward to tap into your true self. I believe the most beautiful gift you can offer the world is your fully aware, individuated, and integrated self, which allows you to cultivate genuine connections with yourself, others, and the world around you. I weave together my background in social science research and yoga movement therapy with mindfulness-based, body-centered therapies such as Transpersonal, Hakomi, and Gestalt to be with what's arising for you right now.
(971) 328-4549 View (971) 328-4549
Photo of Alexander Deussen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexander Deussen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
My work is based in Existential, Gestalt, and Internal Family Systems Theory and is rooted in connection and compassion.
Every person has the capacity to change and heal and live authentically. I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental environment for self-exploration, growth and expansion. I have over 19 years experience working with adults, young adults, teenagers, and families who have experienced trauma, relationship strains, anxiety and depression.
My work is based in Existential, Gestalt, and Internal Family Systems Theory and is rooted in connection and compassion.
Every person has the capacity to change and heal and live authentically. I offer a supportive and nonjudgmental environment for self-exploration, growth and expansion. I have over 19 years experience working with adults, young adults, teenagers, and families who have experienced trauma, relationship strains, anxiety and depression.
(503) 213-6453 View (503) 213-6453
Photo of Frankie Forrester, MS, NCC
Frankie Forrester
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97201  (Online Only)
Utilizing flavors of gestalt, somatic, and other modalities, I hold space for exploration of whatever arises in your therapeutic journey.
As a Black, non-binary, transracial adoptee, identity work is the name of my game. I often work with BIPOC and/or gender non-conforming individuals including children, pre-teens, and adults. I focus my clinical work in supporting those navigating challenges that arise from identity work: racial, gender, familial, societal, etc. The subject of adoption is particularly close to my heart and one that holds much nuance and intricacy. We may be a good fit if you are looking to explore any of the aforementioned or are the parent and/or guardian of the aforementioned. Please contact me using the "my website" link or visit crybaby.care.
Utilizing flavors of gestalt, somatic, and other modalities, I hold space for exploration of whatever arises in your therapeutic journey.
As a Black, non-binary, transracial adoptee, identity work is the name of my game. I often work with BIPOC and/or gender non-conforming individuals including children, pre-teens, and adults. I focus my clinical work in supporting those navigating challenges that arise from identity work: racial, gender, familial, societal, etc. The subject of adoption is particularly close to my heart and one that holds much nuance and intricacy. We may be a good fit if you are looking to explore any of the aforementioned or are the parent and/or guardian of the aforementioned. Please contact me using the "my website" link or visit crybaby.care.
Photo of 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 Grace Spring, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Grace Spring
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
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
Photo of Annie Vail, MA, LPC, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annie Vail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97008
I am also trained in multiple trauma and attachment-based modalities, IFS & Gestalt, compassionate communication (NVC), PACT couples therapy, and authentic relating.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
I am also trained in multiple trauma and attachment-based modalities, IFS & Gestalt, compassionate communication (NVC), PACT couples therapy, and authentic relating.
I believe in your capacity to find the healing you seek and create the life you envision. Perhaps you are dealing with anxiety or depression, grieving the death of a loved one or a painful breakup, struggle with belonging, or just feel stuck and know that you are ready to do something about it. Do you want more intimacy, connection, and joy in your relationships? Let me help you uncover unconscious patterns and beliefs and heal from old wounds that may be keeping you from living from your best self. Together we can bring more love, capacity, skill, and presence into your relationships.
(503) 966-9615 View (503) 966-9615
Photo of Jennifer E Kelly, PsyD, Psychologist
Jennifer E Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
I am an integrative therapist, specifically engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy with my clients.
Hello! I am now accepting Pacific Source clients! My approach to therapy is to establish a safe and warm environment where growth, awareness, and healing take place. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity for clients to build upon existing strengths and learn coping strategies to feel better about themselves and interact more effectively with others and the world around them. Through a collaborative and supportive relationship, our work together will help you explore and give voice to the difficult experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which may be interfering with you living the meaningful life that is important to you.
I am an integrative therapist, specifically engaging in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy with my clients.
Hello! I am now accepting Pacific Source clients! My approach to therapy is to establish a safe and warm environment where growth, awareness, and healing take place. I view therapy as a valuable opportunity for clients to build upon existing strengths and learn coping strategies to feel better about themselves and interact more effectively with others and the world around them. Through a collaborative and supportive relationship, our work together will help you explore and give voice to the difficult experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors which may be interfering with you living the meaningful life that is important to you.
(503) 406-6634 View (503) 406-6634
Gestalt Therapists

What is gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is based on the idea that to address unresolved negative feelings, emotions must be not only discussed but also actively expressed in the present moment. The term is from a German word meaning “whole,” and gestalt therapists believe that people should be considered whole entities made up of mind, body, and emotions. Gestalt sessions are rooted in the notion that a client’s total self must be discovered, explored, and confronted, so that they can take greater responsibility for themselves and their behavior, learn to satisfy their own needs while still respecting the needs of others, and reconnect with feelings they might otherwise deny.

How does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy sessions do not just involve talking with a therapist. Clients may take part in role-playing, re-enactment, or artistic exercises like drawing and painting, with the goal of becoming more aware of negative thought patterns that limit happiness. One common gestalt exercise is “the empty chair,” in which a client sits across from an empty chair representing a partner, relative, boss, or a part of themselves—and, with the therapist’s encouragement, improvises a dialog with it. The intention is to bring the emotions raised by past conflicts into the present and work through them in the moment.

How long does gestalt therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for gestalt therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. New patients should understand that it may take some time to become comfortable with gestalt exercises but once they do, they should expect sessions to extend for a number of months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions.

Does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy has generally been found to be as effective as other forms of talk therapy in helping people living with anxiety, depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as helping individuals reduce conflict in relationships. Gestalt techniques, on their own or in combination with other therapies, can also be effective in managing physical ailments including ulcerative colitis, migraines, and back spasms. It should be noted that some people may have trouble adapting to gestalt therapy’s lack of formal structure or to a therapist’s close observations of their body language and emotions; others may struggle to commit to techniques that feel unnatural, like the empty chair exercise.