Gestalt Therapists in Grand Prairie, TX
![Photo of Lera Joan Lind - Transformed Life Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84518ec4-ac0c-4736-a4c8-a1150f3e5acf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Transformed Life Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75052 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping her clients overcome the issues of life.My goal is to form safe and trusting relationships with clients.One of my objectives in working with clients is to help them live purposeful, and satisfied lives.Having overcome life-altering losses of my own and having become a Licensed Professional Counselor I have obtained the tools to help others overcome as well.Today I work with adults who are struggling with the issues of life including lack of boundaries, mental illness and personality disorders. I have extensive experience working with those who have endured trauma.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in helping her clients overcome the issues of life.My goal is to form safe and trusting relationships with clients.One of my objectives in working with clients is to help them live purposeful, and satisfied lives.Having overcome life-altering losses of my own and having become a Licensed Professional Counselor I have obtained the tools to help others overcome as well.Today I work with adults who are struggling with the issues of life including lack of boundaries, mental illness and personality disorders. I have extensive experience working with those who have endured trauma.
![Photo of Melody Ware-Massie - Affordable Child and Family Therapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/947e45c6-abea-4967-be37-67da93f14003/4/320x400.jpeg)
Affordable Child and Family Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75052
Accepting NEW clients now! Evenings, weekends, in-person and virtual appts available. We have a playroom with various toys, group room for multiple people and a welcoming traditional therapy room. (CBT and DBT techniques offered daily) Pay with flexibility based upon your household income! In-person office and online Tele-help appointments available. Evening and weekend appointments available. We service ages 2 through 28 years of age and their family. Ask about our support groups for children and parents.
Accepting NEW clients now! Evenings, weekends, in-person and virtual appts available. We have a playroom with various toys, group room for multiple people and a welcoming traditional therapy room. (CBT and DBT techniques offered daily) Pay with flexibility based upon your household income! In-person office and online Tele-help appointments available. Evening and weekend appointments available. We service ages 2 through 28 years of age and their family. Ask about our support groups for children and parents.
![Photo of Katrina Franks, MA, LPC-A](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50a086fb-76cc-4ea5-a717-59716ba3c644/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I received my graduate degree in Professional Counseling in 2009. I have worked as a Career Coach. I have conducted presentations on personality assessment interpretations, conflict resolution, and occupational soft skills, to name a few. I specialize in Grief Support, working with clients experiencing depression as a result of loss, also conflict resolution, supporting individuals with communication challenges. I invite meditation into the counseling encounter to create a peaceful space to work in. Together our work is to bridge the gap between hope and despair.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate. I received my graduate degree in Professional Counseling in 2009. I have worked as a Career Coach. I have conducted presentations on personality assessment interpretations, conflict resolution, and occupational soft skills, to name a few. I specialize in Grief Support, working with clients experiencing depression as a result of loss, also conflict resolution, supporting individuals with communication challenges. I invite meditation into the counseling encounter to create a peaceful space to work in. Together our work is to bridge the gap between hope and despair.
![Photo of Kelly Martin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/636fa415-0e63-4fcd-94f5-de6f148d42d3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am Kelly Martin, LPC and I strive to build a warm and compassionate environment for my clients to build upon their strengths and work through their struggles. My focus is on an eclectic approach to getting clients to their desired goals. Some of the modalities I work with are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
I am Kelly Martin, LPC and I strive to build a warm and compassionate environment for my clients to build upon their strengths and work through their struggles. My focus is on an eclectic approach to getting clients to their desired goals. Some of the modalities I work with are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and experiential techniques.
![Photo of Kenisha Rotibi - A Chosen Path Counseling, PLLC & Supervision, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d815445-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
A Chosen Path Counseling, PLLC & Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75052
****ACCEPTING NEW LCSW SUPERVISEE *** I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Board Supervisor. I am currently accepting LMSW who are seeking supervision for licensure in the state of Texas. I offer Individuals and Groups supervision settings. ****We also offer Test Prep for LMSW and LCSW licensure*****
****ACCEPTING NEW LCSW SUPERVISEE *** I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Board Supervisor. I am currently accepting LMSW who are seeking supervision for licensure in the state of Texas. I offer Individuals and Groups supervision settings. ****We also offer Test Prep for LMSW and LCSW licensure*****
![Photo of Mariana Carpio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b1fcc2e-44cd-4c76-bec7-4f0d026e5630/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mariana Carpio is a bilingual (Spanish, English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with years of experience. She has a passion for helping children, teens, and young adults thrive in a complex world. Mariana specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues (child therapy), domestic violence and/or intimate partner violence, grief, stress, parenting concerns, racial trauma, school issues, self-esteem issues, sexual abuse, other forms of traumatic experiences, including PTSD.
Mariana Carpio is a bilingual (Spanish, English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with years of experience. She has a passion for helping children, teens, and young adults thrive in a complex world. Mariana specializes in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues (child therapy), domestic violence and/or intimate partner violence, grief, stress, parenting concerns, racial trauma, school issues, self-esteem issues, sexual abuse, other forms of traumatic experiences, including PTSD.
![Photo of Katie T La - Cognitive Revival, PLLC, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f165a644-3203-4ae7-b46a-b0d5be5cc5e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cognitive Revival, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing. Consequences give us the pain that motivates us to change. -H. Cloud. Change is always hard but often necessary and attainable with the appropriate guidance and tools. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues in adolescents, adults, and couples, and I have extensive experiences with these populations. I work best with clients who are self-motivated and seek therapy on their own so they are ready to apply themselves outside of therapy.
We change our behavior when the pain of staying the same becomes greater than the pain of changing. Consequences give us the pain that motivates us to change. -H. Cloud. Change is always hard but often necessary and attainable with the appropriate guidance and tools. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues in adolescents, adults, and couples, and I have extensive experiences with these populations. I work best with clients who are self-motivated and seek therapy on their own so they are ready to apply themselves outside of therapy.
![Photo of Paige Chambers, LCSW-S, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/511ef9cc-1c48-4f58-a237-435f33099fb4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Chambers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75054
Are you a parent raising a teen with behavioral challenges? Has your marriage hit a road-block? Do you struggle with the effects of past abuse, depression or anxiety? Chances are you've tried to resolve the challenges you face by yourself, with little resolve. With over 20 years of helping individuals and families progress, I'm an avid believer that the counseling experience should fit you and your needs. I'd like to be your professional partner in helping you to successfully achieve personal growth and develop healthier relationships with your family, friends & co-workers.
Are you a parent raising a teen with behavioral challenges? Has your marriage hit a road-block? Do you struggle with the effects of past abuse, depression or anxiety? Chances are you've tried to resolve the challenges you face by yourself, with little resolve. With over 20 years of helping individuals and families progress, I'm an avid believer that the counseling experience should fit you and your needs. I'd like to be your professional partner in helping you to successfully achieve personal growth and develop healthier relationships with your family, friends & co-workers.
![Photo of Angela S Taylor - Noyau Wellness Center, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ade24b90-b50e-43a0-b252-0090e30dfd09/2/320x400.jpeg)
Noyau Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
If you've been struggling and feeling lost and hopeless about how to turn things around for yourself, it may feel impossible to figure out how to begin to heal and move forward in your life. Feelings of sadness, confusion, and anxiety can feel overwhelming, and you may worry that you will never feel happy and whole again. We are here to restore your hope and offer support, guidance, and understanding. We'll work with you to start building a path and a life towards happiness, success, and fulfillment in a warm and nonjudgemental atmosphere.
If you've been struggling and feeling lost and hopeless about how to turn things around for yourself, it may feel impossible to figure out how to begin to heal and move forward in your life. Feelings of sadness, confusion, and anxiety can feel overwhelming, and you may worry that you will never feel happy and whole again. We are here to restore your hope and offer support, guidance, and understanding. We'll work with you to start building a path and a life towards happiness, success, and fulfillment in a warm and nonjudgemental atmosphere.
![Photo of Donna June Kirby, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5021d2be-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna June Kirby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75050 (Online Only)
Welcome to your first step towards helping yourself to live the life you've been wanting. I believe what Carl Rogers once stated "a counselor is not an expert but a mirror for clients to see themselves." A counselor's acceptance and reflection of feelings creates a level of safety for deeper exploration and an opportunity for clients to increase their self-awareness which leads to positive action. I encourage my clients to be mindful of thoughts and feelings. By practicing mindfulness you are able to be focused and centered in your life.
Welcome to your first step towards helping yourself to live the life you've been wanting. I believe what Carl Rogers once stated "a counselor is not an expert but a mirror for clients to see themselves." A counselor's acceptance and reflection of feelings creates a level of safety for deeper exploration and an opportunity for clients to increase their self-awareness which leads to positive action. I encourage my clients to be mindful of thoughts and feelings. By practicing mindfulness you are able to be focused and centered in your life.
![Photo of Myrtle Hawkins, MA, LPC, LPHA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6123f5c7-8740-4377-b583-efa2d7a24468/1/320x400.jpeg)
Myrtle Hawkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LPHA
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75050 (Online Only)
Are you sad and confused? I will help you understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. You can get help through counseling. It is generally short-term and focused on helping you deal with a very specific problem; Virtual only (M,W,Thur 10 or 11 am), M-F (appointments after 5 pm CST), Saturdays (9-2p) "virtual appointments ONLY". I am experienced in treating a wide range of disorders including: phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety, couples issues, divorce issues and trauma.
Are you sad and confused? I will help you understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. You can get help through counseling. It is generally short-term and focused on helping you deal with a very specific problem; Virtual only (M,W,Thur 10 or 11 am), M-F (appointments after 5 pm CST), Saturdays (9-2p) "virtual appointments ONLY". I am experienced in treating a wide range of disorders including: phobias, addictions, depression, and anxiety, couples issues, divorce issues and trauma.
![Photo of Elizabeth Cooper, MS, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca6d4855-48e9-4d11-92ea-18b9b290a8c9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life's challenges can leave us feeling stuck or isolated as if we need to hide our pain and carry these burdens alone. But what happens if these burdens are too heavy to bear? That's where I come in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to offer you a guiding hand through some of life's toughest moments. Whether you're navigating a miscarriage, adjusting to life postpartum, or grappling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can work to move through these changes and onto the next chapter of your life.
Life's challenges can leave us feeling stuck or isolated as if we need to hide our pain and carry these burdens alone. But what happens if these burdens are too heavy to bear? That's where I come in. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I am here to offer you a guiding hand through some of life's toughest moments. Whether you're navigating a miscarriage, adjusting to life postpartum, or grappling with depression or anxiety, you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can work to move through these changes and onto the next chapter of your life.
![Photo of Eisha Collins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efe1739e-3ced-4c51-b0df-3e802043b5ad/1/320x400.jpeg)
Eisha Collins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75052 (Online Only)
Well, hello beautiful people! I aim to help black women who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or spirituality. From the time we are born, we are exposed to many unpleasant and even unexplainable circumstances that leave us desperately looking for answers. Unfortunately, as black women the “lack” can result in us dealing with our reality in a number of devastating ways. There is an amount of deception in MANY forms in our society that is cultivated and we fall victim to; some for a short period, and some all of our lives.
Well, hello beautiful people! I aim to help black women who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or spirituality. From the time we are born, we are exposed to many unpleasant and even unexplainable circumstances that leave us desperately looking for answers. Unfortunately, as black women the “lack” can result in us dealing with our reality in a number of devastating ways. There is an amount of deception in MANY forms in our society that is cultivated and we fall victim to; some for a short period, and some all of our lives.
![Photo of Micala (Mickey) Kohler, MA, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d3df1f7e-3c43-49a8-bbbf-34ab07abb85e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Micala (Mickey) Kohler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Grand Prairie, TX 75050
Are you in that part of your journey where you feel left behind by your partner? Are you someone who wants to meet the love of your life but don't know where to start? Are you an older adult and lonely for companionship and new love? Do you long to reconnect to someone you've loved for a long time but have lost the thread due to betrayal? Have you and your partner just drifted into a sexless existence where you feel like roommates but not lovers? We all deserve to feel alive, to feel loved, to feel joy. When we become more self-aware, we enhance our potential to attract a special love.
Are you in that part of your journey where you feel left behind by your partner? Are you someone who wants to meet the love of your life but don't know where to start? Are you an older adult and lonely for companionship and new love? Do you long to reconnect to someone you've loved for a long time but have lost the thread due to betrayal? Have you and your partner just drifted into a sexless existence where you feel like roommates but not lovers? We all deserve to feel alive, to feel loved, to feel joy. When we become more self-aware, we enhance our potential to attract a special love.
![Photo of Kimberly A Mendoza, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42c41694-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kimberly A Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75052 (Online Only)
I have an extensive history of working with abused and neglected children. I specialize in working with Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse who often have not processed their past trauma. This often comes up when they are expecting their own children, so helping women deal with past trauma while pregnant is important for the mother and baby. I also specialize in working with people who have grown up with narcissistic parents and/or who have been in narcissistic abusive relationships. I have extensive experience working with those in the LGBTQ+ Community.
I have an extensive history of working with abused and neglected children. I specialize in working with Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse who often have not processed their past trauma. This often comes up when they are expecting their own children, so helping women deal with past trauma while pregnant is important for the mother and baby. I also specialize in working with people who have grown up with narcissistic parents and/or who have been in narcissistic abusive relationships. I have extensive experience working with those in the LGBTQ+ Community.
![Photo of America Cardona - America Cardona, MSSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00ea2bd7-2cc0-413f-8d04-d90d3297bddf/1/320x400.jpeg)
America Cardona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Prairie, TX 75053
You do not have to walk alone, allow me to walk with you. Life is hard enough so why are we so hard on ourselves? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years in the field of Social Work/Mental Health and over a decade psychotherapy with teens and adolescents. Emphasis in Trauma/Assault and Childhood Trauma. I believe everyone has the ability and should be given a chance to heal: mind, body, and spirit. It’s important to find someone who is a good fit for your journey. Offer Immigration support for Visa. Willing to see Intern to reduce cost; let’s talk.
You do not have to walk alone, allow me to walk with you. Life is hard enough so why are we so hard on ourselves? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 12 years in the field of Social Work/Mental Health and over a decade psychotherapy with teens and adolescents. Emphasis in Trauma/Assault and Childhood Trauma. I believe everyone has the ability and should be given a chance to heal: mind, body, and spirit. It’s important to find someone who is a good fit for your journey. Offer Immigration support for Visa. Willing to see Intern to reduce cost; let’s talk.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Danielle (Dani) Sanders, MS, LPC-A, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f5f8360d-7f58-4b15-bda6-66c9cfa6818a/1/320x400.png)
Danielle (Dani) Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76006
In my practice, I blend Gestalt, Narrative therapy, and EMDR (EMDRIA approved) aiming to unravel the impact of your past on your present and identify narratives that may be holding you back.
Embarking on the therapy journey is a deeply personal decision, and I'm here to offer a safe haven for your exploration. Inspired by Theodore Roosevelt's "Man in the Arena" mindset, I see our collaboration as a continuous learning experience, where growth happens with each step. My specialization includes developmental trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, and couple's counseling. Whether you're a teen, adult, or part of a group, my mission is to guide you toward "graduating" from therapy, integrating insights into your daily life, fostering self-discovery, and embracing authenticity.
In my practice, I blend Gestalt, Narrative therapy, and EMDR (EMDRIA approved) aiming to unravel the impact of your past on your present and identify narratives that may be holding you back.
Embarking on the therapy journey is a deeply personal decision, and I'm here to offer a safe haven for your exploration. Inspired by Theodore Roosevelt's "Man in the Arena" mindset, I see our collaboration as a continuous learning experience, where growth happens with each step. My specialization includes developmental trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, and couple's counseling. Whether you're a teen, adult, or part of a group, my mission is to guide you toward "graduating" from therapy, integrating insights into your daily life, fostering self-discovery, and embracing authenticity.
![Photo of James L Persley - Paragon Salient Addiction Services, BS, LC, LCDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fdf82e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paragon Salient Addiction Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, LC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76010
We utilize REBT and Gestalt theories to name a few to address particular objectives.
The ideal client is one that realizes that they want something different in life regarding their current situation and are honest with themselves, open to new approaches and willing to exercise mentally in therapy. Issues that are rooted internally and a need to be able to manage them. Our goal is to be able to promote objectivity in the mind by examining theories and tactics that could be beneficial to ones development.
We utilize REBT and Gestalt theories to name a few to address particular objectives.
The ideal client is one that realizes that they want something different in life regarding their current situation and are honest with themselves, open to new approaches and willing to exercise mentally in therapy. Issues that are rooted internally and a need to be able to manage them. Our goal is to be able to promote objectivity in the mind by examining theories and tactics that could be beneficial to ones development.
![Photo of Vitalina Tarasenko, LMFT-A, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1b7bc28-17bd-48db-8704-6a2bbfa4c766/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vitalina Tarasenko
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A, MA
Verified Verified
DFW, TX 75261 (Online Only)
In my work, I use Gestalt and IFS methods, as well as Gottman and EFT when working with couples.
Welcome! I'm Vitalina, an LMFT Associate in the State of Taxes. I work with couples, and Individuals. In my sessions, I create a warm, empathetic, and nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients feel safe to explore their deepest concerns. I work with anxiety, depression, maternity issues, conflicts, boundaries, self-esteem, childhood trauma, and codependency. As a first-generation immigrant, I am particularly keen to work with individuals who, like me, have had to build or rebuild their lives from scratch. I lived in Europe and the Middle East, which helped me to work well with the clients from multicultural environments.
In my work, I use Gestalt and IFS methods, as well as Gottman and EFT when working with couples.
Welcome! I'm Vitalina, an LMFT Associate in the State of Taxes. I work with couples, and Individuals. In my sessions, I create a warm, empathetic, and nonjudgmental atmosphere where clients feel safe to explore their deepest concerns. I work with anxiety, depression, maternity issues, conflicts, boundaries, self-esteem, childhood trauma, and codependency. As a first-generation immigrant, I am particularly keen to work with individuals who, like me, have had to build or rebuild their lives from scratch. I lived in Europe and the Middle East, which helped me to work well with the clients from multicultural environments.
![Photo of Linda Doutre, MSEd, LMFT, LPC, CBT, ETT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f34991f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Doutre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LMFT, LPC, CBT, ETT
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76013
I am a developmental therapist with over 30 years experience in psychotherapy. I have extended training in Gestalt therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis ( a somatic relational therapy) and Emotional Transformational Therapy (ETT)therapy using different protocols of color and light), sound resonance healing with tuning forks; I provide couple and family therapy, diagnostic developmental testing/TOVA, and professional coaching for relationship issues, and professional development. In my years of practice, I have explored many different and effective ways of working with clients. I am Teletherapy certified and a certified life coach.
I am a developmental therapist with over 30 years experience in psychotherapy. I have extended training in Gestalt therapy, Bioenergetic Analysis ( a somatic relational therapy) and Emotional Transformational Therapy (ETT)therapy using different protocols of color and light), sound resonance healing with tuning forks; I provide couple and family therapy, diagnostic developmental testing/TOVA, and professional coaching for relationship issues, and professional development. In my years of practice, I have explored many different and effective ways of working with clients. I am Teletherapy certified and a certified life coach.
See more therapy options for Grand Prairie
Nearby Gestalt Therapists Searches for Grand Prairie
- Arlington
- Bedford
- Cedar Hill
- Colleyville
- Dallas
- Desoto
- Euless
- Grapevine
- Hurst
- Irving
- Mansfield
- North Richland Hills
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.