Gestalt Therapists in Philadelphia County, PA
Hilary Bayley Loielo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125
I am a Certified Gestalt Therapist and have extensive training in Mindfulness-based techniques, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
Struggling with mental health issues and life transitions can feel isolating and overwhelming. My goal as a psychotherapist is to help you feel less alone and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. I emphasize the therapeutic relationship and work from a place of empathy, authenticity and compassion for the self. My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, addiction, and PTSD. Additionally, I am experienced in postpartum and perinatal anxiety and depression. I work with individuals, couples and families.
I am a Certified Gestalt Therapist and have extensive training in Mindfulness-based techniques, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
Struggling with mental health issues and life transitions can feel isolating and overwhelming. My goal as a psychotherapist is to help you feel less alone and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. I emphasize the therapeutic relationship and work from a place of empathy, authenticity and compassion for the self. My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, addiction, and PTSD. Additionally, I am experienced in postpartum and perinatal anxiety and depression. I work with individuals, couples and families.
My style of therapy is greatly informed by Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy, mindfulness, somatic-work, body-mind awareness and Parts work.
Imagine a space where you can express yourself in many different forms as you feel most comfortable; where you can try out new ways of being in your life and in your relationships. I strive to provide a space like this; where your thoughts, feelings and most tender parts can be revealed, nurtured, heard and seen. I enjoy the limitless diversity of brain chemistries, ethnicities, sexualities and gender expressions that exist among us. I also appreciate the diversity of life experience that each of us holds, and believe that there is wisdom and expertise within each of us to enable healing, but we don't always know how to access it.
My style of therapy is greatly informed by Gestalt Therapy, Play Therapy, mindfulness, somatic-work, body-mind awareness and Parts work.
Imagine a space where you can express yourself in many different forms as you feel most comfortable; where you can try out new ways of being in your life and in your relationships. I strive to provide a space like this; where your thoughts, feelings and most tender parts can be revealed, nurtured, heard and seen. I enjoy the limitless diversity of brain chemistries, ethnicities, sexualities and gender expressions that exist among us. I also appreciate the diversity of life experience that each of us holds, and believe that there is wisdom and expertise within each of us to enable healing, but we don't always know how to access it.
Alyson Nerenberg Psychology Associates, PC
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Trained in a variety of therapy modalities (family systems, gestalt,cognitive behavioral psychodynamic ).
Dr.Alyson Nerenberg, a clinical psychologist is a compassionate and dynamic therapist with over 30 years in practice. She works with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, divorce, addictions and eating disorders. Dr. Nerenberg integrates philosophies from the medical, psychological and self-help communities in order to treat the whole person. She is a positive person who focuses on her clients strengths in order to help them heal.
Trained in a variety of therapy modalities (family systems, gestalt,cognitive behavioral psychodynamic ).
Dr.Alyson Nerenberg, a clinical psychologist is a compassionate and dynamic therapist with over 30 years in practice. She works with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, divorce, addictions and eating disorders. Dr. Nerenberg integrates philosophies from the medical, psychological and self-help communities in order to treat the whole person. She is a positive person who focuses on her clients strengths in order to help them heal.
Cynthia Closs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Not accepting new clients
I have been trained in psychodynamic and gestalt therapy and trauma and attachment theory and ASCH Level I clinical hypnosis.
People often seek therapy to resolve past experiences and life complexities and the decision to enter therapy may carry feelings of ambivalence and uncertainty. I believe that therapy is most effective when persons are offered an environment that is inviting, attentive, collaborative, affirming, and safe. Subsequently, my goal is to provide a challenging, but non-judgmental and encouraging atmosphere for persons to explore concerns and difficulties as a means of achieving desired change.
I have been trained in psychodynamic and gestalt therapy and trauma and attachment theory and ASCH Level I clinical hypnosis.
People often seek therapy to resolve past experiences and life complexities and the decision to enter therapy may carry feelings of ambivalence and uncertainty. I believe that therapy is most effective when persons are offered an environment that is inviting, attentive, collaborative, affirming, and safe. Subsequently, my goal is to provide a challenging, but non-judgmental and encouraging atmosphere for persons to explore concerns and difficulties as a means of achieving desired change.
I view therapy as a unique, shared journey and the therapeutic relationship as essential for healing and change. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Certfied Filial therapists/trainer. I have extensive training in family/couple therapy, Gestalt therapy, mindfulness and sandtray therapies. I have worked in a wide variety of settings with adults, children, and teens (group private practice, schools, medical setting, state mental hospital, community mental health). I have been in private practice since 1991.
I view therapy as a unique, shared journey and the therapeutic relationship as essential for healing and change. I am a Licensed Psychologist and Certfied Filial therapists/trainer. I have extensive training in family/couple therapy, Gestalt therapy, mindfulness and sandtray therapies. I have worked in a wide variety of settings with adults, children, and teens (group private practice, schools, medical setting, state mental hospital, community mental health). I have been in private practice since 1991.
I am trained as a clinical social worker & Gestalt therapist, and I incorporate a social justice lens into my work.
I am a relational therapist with 20+ years of experience in the field. My specialties include working with caregivers, activists, helping professionals, educators, parents, folks within the LGBTQ+ community, and people impacted by traumatic experiences. I bring an open heart and humility to our work together, and honor the power and vulnerability of getting support and sharing your truth. I will work collaboratively with you to support you in living a fuller, more connected life - wherever you are in your journey of self-discovery & healing.
I am trained as a clinical social worker & Gestalt therapist, and I incorporate a social justice lens into my work.
I am a relational therapist with 20+ years of experience in the field. My specialties include working with caregivers, activists, helping professionals, educators, parents, folks within the LGBTQ+ community, and people impacted by traumatic experiences. I bring an open heart and humility to our work together, and honor the power and vulnerability of getting support and sharing your truth. I will work collaboratively with you to support you in living a fuller, more connected life - wherever you are in your journey of self-discovery & healing.
Anemone Schlotterbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I come from queer and liberation therapy perspectives to utilize Gestalt relational and somatic therapy, as well as psychodynamic, mindfulness, and EMDR therapies.
I work most often with people who have been pushed to the margins, including trans, non-binary and queer people, autistic and other neurodivergent people, and people who have survived traumatic events and relationships. I enjoy working with organizers, activists, and artists. I tend to be a good fit for clients experiencing shame, despair, isolation and existential dread.
I come from queer and liberation therapy perspectives to utilize Gestalt relational and somatic therapy, as well as psychodynamic, mindfulness, and EMDR therapies.
I work most often with people who have been pushed to the margins, including trans, non-binary and queer people, autistic and other neurodivergent people, and people who have survived traumatic events and relationships. I enjoy working with organizers, activists, and artists. I tend to be a good fit for clients experiencing shame, despair, isolation and existential dread.
You don't have to suffer alone. There is help. We can work together so that you experience a more fulfilled life. I work with clients on issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, spiritual issues, and loss and grief. I can also help clients struggling with trauma, ADHD, and sleep difficulties. Primarily I use a psychodynamic perspective, appreciating the underlying causes to the difficulties we face. I also integrate techniques from other approaches, such as gestalt, emotion-focused therapy, short-term psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, depending on the client's unique problems and goals.
You don't have to suffer alone. There is help. We can work together so that you experience a more fulfilled life. I work with clients on issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship problems, spiritual issues, and loss and grief. I can also help clients struggling with trauma, ADHD, and sleep difficulties. Primarily I use a psychodynamic perspective, appreciating the underlying causes to the difficulties we face. I also integrate techniques from other approaches, such as gestalt, emotion-focused therapy, short-term psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, depending on the client's unique problems and goals.
James Lawrence Thibault
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19130
These range from psychodynamic to solution focused therapies, as well as EMDR, mindfulness, cognitive therapy, narrative therapy, and gestalt and existential techniques.
I believe that we all struggle with trauma, and most mental health challenges stem from how one adapts to these experiences. I specialize in working with trauma, identifying how it is held in the body, the strategies we uphold as defense mechanisms, and how to negotiate with our inner self to move toward a healthy healing of mind and body. Coming from either a top down approach for those thinker types, or a bottom up approach for those feeler types, we will compassionately reconnect the mind and body, in order to achieve relief and greater connectivity to self and others.
These range from psychodynamic to solution focused therapies, as well as EMDR, mindfulness, cognitive therapy, narrative therapy, and gestalt and existential techniques.
I believe that we all struggle with trauma, and most mental health challenges stem from how one adapts to these experiences. I specialize in working with trauma, identifying how it is held in the body, the strategies we uphold as defense mechanisms, and how to negotiate with our inner self to move toward a healthy healing of mind and body. Coming from either a top down approach for those thinker types, or a bottom up approach for those feeler types, we will compassionately reconnect the mind and body, in order to achieve relief and greater connectivity to self and others.
Caitlin Cantor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST, CGT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I'm an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist--one of less than 1000 in the world--and a Certified Gestalt Therapist.
I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to talk about difficult subjects without fear of judgment. I specialize in relationships and relational work. I help couples heal from unresolved issues, learn new ways to communicate and understand each other, and deepen their intimacy. I teach couples how to have hard conversations that end in deeper connection, instead of painful fights that result in deeper wounds. I also help single people navigate the dating world, date from a place of confidence and self-worth, & create a healthy, lasting relationship.
I'm an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist--one of less than 1000 in the world--and a Certified Gestalt Therapist.
I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals and couples to talk about difficult subjects without fear of judgment. I specialize in relationships and relational work. I help couples heal from unresolved issues, learn new ways to communicate and understand each other, and deepen their intimacy. I teach couples how to have hard conversations that end in deeper connection, instead of painful fights that result in deeper wounds. I also help single people navigate the dating world, date from a place of confidence and self-worth, & create a healthy, lasting relationship.
Joshua Weiss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor with a Gestalt and Holistic Wellness approach towards therapy. Gestalt and Wellness approaches allow me to be creative and intentional with my therapeutic practices. I value human connectedness and learning about each person I work with. Therapy is unique to everyone, and my goal is to guide the therapeutic experience with the intention of promoting personal growth. Life has it’s hardships, my passion is helping people lean into their discomforts to develop the skills needed to overcome them.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a Gestalt and Holistic Wellness approach towards therapy. Gestalt and Wellness approaches allow me to be creative and intentional with my therapeutic practices. I value human connectedness and learning about each person I work with. Therapy is unique to everyone, and my goal is to guide the therapeutic experience with the intention of promoting personal growth. Life has it’s hardships, my passion is helping people lean into their discomforts to develop the skills needed to overcome them.
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Joanna Vanore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19127 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Using a Humanistic and Gestalt therapeutic approach, together we will co-create a space where healing can be possible.
Life's complexities often give us transitions we may not be prepared for. My intent is to support and empower my clients as they learn how to support themselves. I hope to join you in gaining new clarity and perspective during times of change. I have worked with individuals who are chronically ill, older adults and their families for over a decade and have a particular appreciation for supporting those during the sacredness of end of life. Grief and loss is a complicated process, let me join you as we navigate living through loss together.
Using a Humanistic and Gestalt therapeutic approach, together we will co-create a space where healing can be possible.
Life's complexities often give us transitions we may not be prepared for. My intent is to support and empower my clients as they learn how to support themselves. I hope to join you in gaining new clarity and perspective during times of change. I have worked with individuals who are chronically ill, older adults and their families for over a decade and have a particular appreciation for supporting those during the sacredness of end of life. Grief and loss is a complicated process, let me join you as we navigate living through loss together.
Alisa Stamps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a certified Gestalt and IFS therapist, and am also certified in Dr.
You look in the mirror and see the "bad" traits. That you're not thin enough, not righteous enough, not "good" enough. You realize that these traits were projected there by someone else--a partner, or maybe even a parent. You want to recover from perhaps a lifetime of emotional pain and narcissistic abuse but you don't know where to begin...I specialize in treating adult children of narcissists, cult abuse/religious trauma survivors, and those struggling with disordered eating and body image issues. I can support you in developing your inner strengths so that when you look in the mirror it will be your true self staring back at you.
I am a certified Gestalt and IFS therapist, and am also certified in Dr.
You look in the mirror and see the "bad" traits. That you're not thin enough, not righteous enough, not "good" enough. You realize that these traits were projected there by someone else--a partner, or maybe even a parent. You want to recover from perhaps a lifetime of emotional pain and narcissistic abuse but you don't know where to begin...I specialize in treating adult children of narcissists, cult abuse/religious trauma survivors, and those struggling with disordered eating and body image issues. I can support you in developing your inner strengths so that when you look in the mirror it will be your true self staring back at you.
Constance Lucy Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147 (Online Only)
I have a background in Gestalt Therapy as well as modern Psychoanalysis, which have contributed to my approach in that she sees the person as an organic self, physical, mental, and emotional.
I a a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania. I practice using primarily psychodynamic and person-centered therapy. Through these modalities, you will work on a deeper level to explore causes and underlying patterns of presenting problems and easing resistance. I will provide unconditional positive regard, so you do not have to worry about feeling pressured or judged. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, anxiety, low self-esteem and feelings of being stuck in unhealthy patterns of functioning.
I have a background in Gestalt Therapy as well as modern Psychoanalysis, which have contributed to my approach in that she sees the person as an organic self, physical, mental, and emotional.
I a a professional counselor licensed in Pennsylvania. I practice using primarily psychodynamic and person-centered therapy. Through these modalities, you will work on a deeper level to explore causes and underlying patterns of presenting problems and easing resistance. I will provide unconditional positive regard, so you do not have to worry about feeling pressured or judged. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, anxiety, low self-esteem and feelings of being stuck in unhealthy patterns of functioning.
Peter-William Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CNIT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I like to use cognitive behavior therapy and gestalt therapy to help my clients get from point A to point B, but I also like to get to know my clients so I can decide how I can best help them on their journey.
Are you feeling stuck in life, battling depression and anxiety, or experiencing relationship issues? I will walk alongside you in whatever journey you are on to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be, from learning new coping skills, improving communication skills, or improving your relationships.
I like to use cognitive behavior therapy and gestalt therapy to help my clients get from point A to point B, but I also like to get to know my clients so I can decide how I can best help them on their journey.
Are you feeling stuck in life, battling depression and anxiety, or experiencing relationship issues? I will walk alongside you in whatever journey you are on to help you reach your goals, whatever they may be, from learning new coping skills, improving communication skills, or improving your relationships.
I use IFS (Internal Family Systems), gestalt therapy, and embodiment/mindfulness work to guide our sessions together.
We have points in our lives when having a therapist can help us move through difficult times. You may feel stuck, isolated, or just wanting support. You may hold past experiences from family that feel present or have stress from feeling unsafe in the world. My specialties include working with grief, trauma, shame, and relationship issues, I work with folks around healing from the impacts of racism and white supremacy. I love working with LGBT communities have a specialty in working with trans/non-binary folks. I specialize in clients considering parenting and becoming parents/single parents.
I use IFS (Internal Family Systems), gestalt therapy, and embodiment/mindfulness work to guide our sessions together.
We have points in our lives when having a therapist can help us move through difficult times. You may feel stuck, isolated, or just wanting support. You may hold past experiences from family that feel present or have stress from feeling unsafe in the world. My specialties include working with grief, trauma, shame, and relationship issues, I work with folks around healing from the impacts of racism and white supremacy. I love working with LGBT communities have a specialty in working with trans/non-binary folks. I specialize in clients considering parenting and becoming parents/single parents.
John Michael Berns
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19145 (Online Only)
I was trained as a creative arts therapist - a music therapist and later as a Gestalt Therapist.
I have worked with many different clients with many different struggles over my career. I have only worked with adults (18 and above) but have worked with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, mood instability, ADHD and other diagnoses. I have also worked with couples and have run both psychotherapy groups as well as psycho-educational groups, including anger management, grief and other topics.
I was trained as a creative arts therapist - a music therapist and later as a Gestalt Therapist.
I have worked with many different clients with many different struggles over my career. I have only worked with adults (18 and above) but have worked with individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, mood instability, ADHD and other diagnoses. I have also worked with couples and have run both psychotherapy groups as well as psycho-educational groups, including anger management, grief and other topics.
Leslie Stickler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19119
My approach integrates Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, an evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, with Gestalt, an embodied and experiential process of "good contact.
Hello & thanks for stopping by! My name is Leslie and I'm a clinical social worker licensed in PA and DE. The core values that guide my practice are slowing down, prioritizing experience, integrating mind & body, and embracing paradox. I'm passionate about using these values to help you to heal from trauma, reconnect to the wisdom of your body, and cultivate more authentic and fulfilling relationships—with others and, even more importantly—with yourself. The skills you develop along the way will enable you to ground anxiety, get unstuck from harmful patterns, and move towards a life of purpose and joy.
My approach integrates Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, an evidence-based cognitive-behavioral therapy, with Gestalt, an embodied and experiential process of "good contact.
Hello & thanks for stopping by! My name is Leslie and I'm a clinical social worker licensed in PA and DE. The core values that guide my practice are slowing down, prioritizing experience, integrating mind & body, and embracing paradox. I'm passionate about using these values to help you to heal from trauma, reconnect to the wisdom of your body, and cultivate more authentic and fulfilling relationships—with others and, even more importantly—with yourself. The skills you develop along the way will enable you to ground anxiety, get unstuck from harmful patterns, and move towards a life of purpose and joy.
Nate Schlingmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Using Gestalt Therapy I'll help you approach challenges from a different perspective which allows you to make choices and take actions that create possibility.
I enjoy helping clients who want to explore themselves and work towards being more accepting and confident in who they truly are. If you want to gain a broader perspective in how you are approaching your relationships, both personal and professional, I'd love to help you. Growth and change are challenging, and can also be fun and exciting. In our work we'll practice being more aware of what is really there for you in the area(s) you're working on. It might be that devloping a new skillset in your relationship will help it grow, or that you need help ending a relationship and starting a new one.
Using Gestalt Therapy I'll help you approach challenges from a different perspective which allows you to make choices and take actions that create possibility.
I enjoy helping clients who want to explore themselves and work towards being more accepting and confident in who they truly are. If you want to gain a broader perspective in how you are approaching your relationships, both personal and professional, I'd love to help you. Growth and change are challenging, and can also be fun and exciting. In our work we'll practice being more aware of what is really there for you in the area(s) you're working on. It might be that devloping a new skillset in your relationship will help it grow, or that you need help ending a relationship and starting a new one.
Tatiana Kryzhanovskaya-Lutsik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Tatiana, a licensed professional counselor and a certified Gestalt therapist in Pennsylvania. I have been licensed since 2008 and I have a Master of Science in Psychology, a Post-Master certification in Clinical psychology, and a certification in Gestalt therapy from the Gestalt Training Institute of Philadelphia.
Hello, I'm Tatiana, a licensed professional counselor and a certified Gestalt therapist in Pennsylvania. I have been licensed since 2008 and I have a Master of Science in Psychology, a Post-Master certification in Clinical psychology, and a certification in Gestalt therapy from the Gestalt Training Institute of Philadelphia.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia County
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.