Gestalt Therapists in The Woodlands, TX

Photo of Josh Parham - Josh Parham Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josh Parham Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I believe everyone has the power to change and improve their lives, no matter what the situation. As a counselor, it is my job to help people realize their potential and assist them in making the changes they wish to achieve. Using a blend of cognitive behavioral, EMDR, existential, and gestalt techniques, I help clients develop coping skills, identify problematic thinking patterns and behaviors, and improve their emotional well being. My office is a safe, warm, welcoming environment. I am non-judgmental, and respectful of my clients' beliefs and lifestyles. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist.
I believe everyone has the power to change and improve their lives, no matter what the situation. As a counselor, it is my job to help people realize their potential and assist them in making the changes they wish to achieve. Using a blend of cognitive behavioral, EMDR, existential, and gestalt techniques, I help clients develop coping skills, identify problematic thinking patterns and behaviors, and improve their emotional well being. My office is a safe, warm, welcoming environment. I am non-judgmental, and respectful of my clients' beliefs and lifestyles. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist.
(281) 968-4350 View (281) 968-4350
Photo of Ron Gravis, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, CSAT, CMAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ron Gravis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77382
I have deep training in numerous trauma/addiction/couples therapies (psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, addictions, Gestalt) and have learned that amazing progress can be accomplished in/through these areas.
I offer In-Office and Online therapy. Both are equally effective, easy to access and greatly appreciated by my clients. I focus on/value your needs first. As we check-in together, connection, trust and comfort create an honest space for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a dynamic partnership - where proven technique and deep relational connection yield cognitive, emotional and spiritual integration. Honing technique to fit client needs + personalized connectivity yields clarity and growth. Moving through the process, we target and work toward this result...together.
I have deep training in numerous trauma/addiction/couples therapies (psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, addictions, Gestalt) and have learned that amazing progress can be accomplished in/through these areas.
I offer In-Office and Online therapy. Both are equally effective, easy to access and greatly appreciated by my clients. I focus on/value your needs first. As we check-in together, connection, trust and comfort create an honest space for you to share and grow. I approach therapy as a dynamic partnership - where proven technique and deep relational connection yield cognitive, emotional and spiritual integration. Honing technique to fit client needs + personalized connectivity yields clarity and growth. Moving through the process, we target and work toward this result...together.
(832) 864-7512 View (832) 864-7512
Photo of Lloyd Whieldon, MS, LPA, CCTP-II, Psychological Associate
Lloyd Whieldon
Psychological Associate, MS, LPA, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I use a CBT, Schema Therapy, Gestalt & EFT to help my clients.
If you are struggling with depression, infidelity, trauma or relationship difficulties, then I would like to help you with this. Perhaps you have started to lose hope in your future, feel disconnected from people or get no enjoyment out of life. Or maybe you are experiencing mood-swings, self-criticism or even a sense that your emotions have been turned off. You might feel that difficult experiences in childhood or those within an adult relationship have left you feeling traumatized and stuck. Or maybe you feel betrayed by a partner – through what they did or what they are not doing. It is possible to heal from these things.
I use a CBT, Schema Therapy, Gestalt & EFT to help my clients.
If you are struggling with depression, infidelity, trauma or relationship difficulties, then I would like to help you with this. Perhaps you have started to lose hope in your future, feel disconnected from people or get no enjoyment out of life. Or maybe you are experiencing mood-swings, self-criticism or even a sense that your emotions have been turned off. You might feel that difficult experiences in childhood or those within an adult relationship have left you feeling traumatized and stuck. Or maybe you feel betrayed by a partner – through what they did or what they are not doing. It is possible to heal from these things.
(936) 298-7239 View (936) 298-7239
Photo of Daniel R. Bernard, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel R. Bernard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I use Gottman’s Couple’s Therapy to assist couples and use CBT, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy to help individuals.
Many of us struggle with issues to which we believe there are no solutions. It may seem that our problems are there at every turn, despite what we do, adding more and more weight for us to carry. We may feel so weighted down that we begin to give up on ourselves. You’re not destined to suffer, however, and have the ability, within yourself, to cope with your problems and lessen this burden. We all have the potential to learn, and counseling can help you to understand and optimize your potential.
I use Gottman’s Couple’s Therapy to assist couples and use CBT, Mindfulness, and Gestalt Therapy to help individuals.
Many of us struggle with issues to which we believe there are no solutions. It may seem that our problems are there at every turn, despite what we do, adding more and more weight for us to carry. We may feel so weighted down that we begin to give up on ourselves. You’re not destined to suffer, however, and have the ability, within yourself, to cope with your problems and lessen this burden. We all have the potential to learn, and counseling can help you to understand and optimize your potential.
(936) 218-2964 View (936) 218-2964
Photo of Mosadi L Porter, EdD
Mosadi L Porter
LPC Associate, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77386
My approach? It's a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-Focused treatments - but don't worry about the fancy terms.
Hey there! Feeling stuck in a cycle of frustration and confusion? Let's change that narrative together. I'm here to help you find understanding, confidence, and stability in your life. Struggling with communication? Feeling burnt out? Battling anxiety or depression? Or maybe life's thrown you a curveball you didn't see coming? Whatever it is, I've got your back. My goal is simple: to help you be well. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate with over 25 years of experience wearing different hats. From higher education to spiritual leadership, mentoring to business, I've seen it all!
My approach? It's a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-Focused treatments - but don't worry about the fancy terms.
Hey there! Feeling stuck in a cycle of frustration and confusion? Let's change that narrative together. I'm here to help you find understanding, confidence, and stability in your life. Struggling with communication? Feeling burnt out? Battling anxiety or depression? Or maybe life's thrown you a curveball you didn't see coming? Whatever it is, I've got your back. My goal is simple: to help you be well. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor - Associate with over 25 years of experience wearing different hats. From higher education to spiritual leadership, mentoring to business, I've seen it all!
(346) 523-7894 View (346) 523-7894
Photo of Lauren Reed, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I have a passion for working with couples, individuals and first responders through a systemic lens. By counseling from a systemic perspective, I can more easily identify what systems (work, school, home life, marriage, etc.) are negatively affecting you while also uncovering unhealthy, ingrained family patterns and beliefs that may keep you emotionally reactive, anxious, and attached. A lot of families and couples get nervous to come in because they are afraid of being judged or exposed, but it is actually more helpful so that I can properly observe, intervene, challenge and mediate in order to help you grow closer to one another.
I have a passion for working with couples, individuals and first responders through a systemic lens. By counseling from a systemic perspective, I can more easily identify what systems (work, school, home life, marriage, etc.) are negatively affecting you while also uncovering unhealthy, ingrained family patterns and beliefs that may keep you emotionally reactive, anxious, and attached. A lot of families and couples get nervous to come in because they are afraid of being judged or exposed, but it is actually more helpful so that I can properly observe, intervene, challenge and mediate in order to help you grow closer to one another.
(281) 729-0485 View (281) 729-0485
Photo of Jacquelyn Shair, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jacquelyn Shair
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380  (Online Only)
Jacquelyn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), and Certified Anger Resolution Therapist (CART). She has over 7 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages who are struggling to cope with conditions or concerns related to family conflict, anxiety, depression, anger, relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, grief, OCD, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, and sexual trauma.
Jacquelyn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Sex Offender Treatment Provider (LSOTP), and Certified Anger Resolution Therapist (CART). She has over 7 years of professional experience working with clients of all ages who are struggling to cope with conditions or concerns related to family conflict, anxiety, depression, anger, relationships, ADHD, behavioral issues, poor coping skills, grief, OCD, oppositional defiance disorder, low self-esteem, and sexual trauma.
(936) 287-3861 View (936) 287-3861
Photo of Nora Magnuson Mazzoni, LPC, MA, LADC, MH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nora Magnuson Mazzoni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, LADC, MH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, or stuck? Anxiety, stress, conflict in relationships, physical pain, and trauma can leave us feeling powerless. Oftentimes, you may feel confused, depressed, anxious, scattered, disconnected, unsafe, or hyper-focused. Are you searching for joy in your life, work-life balance, less stress, healthy relationships, and feeling comfortable in your skin or environment? As your therapist, I support you in discovering, unlocking, and utilizing your strengths to maximize your full potential. You can achieve resilience, post-traumatic growth, hope, peace, joy, happiness, and tranquility in your life!
Overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, or stuck? Anxiety, stress, conflict in relationships, physical pain, and trauma can leave us feeling powerless. Oftentimes, you may feel confused, depressed, anxious, scattered, disconnected, unsafe, or hyper-focused. Are you searching for joy in your life, work-life balance, less stress, healthy relationships, and feeling comfortable in your skin or environment? As your therapist, I support you in discovering, unlocking, and utilizing your strengths to maximize your full potential. You can achieve resilience, post-traumatic growth, hope, peace, joy, happiness, and tranquility in your life!
(936) 246-3087 View (936) 246-3087
Photo of Christopher Joseph Jurkowski, MS, MA, LPC, MBA, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher Joseph Jurkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, MBA, LCDC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77384
Have you ever felt sad, anxious, stuck, or just needing a new perspective? It can be scary to reach out asking for help; however, it actually shows how strong you are, because you will not have to go through it alone. I focus on the strength you have for the challenges you are facing. I feel it's important to work through the struggles that can create intense feelings, so that there can be a sense of hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. I look forward to helping you through the whatever challenges you are presently facing and joining you on your journey.
Have you ever felt sad, anxious, stuck, or just needing a new perspective? It can be scary to reach out asking for help; however, it actually shows how strong you are, because you will not have to go through it alone. I focus on the strength you have for the challenges you are facing. I feel it's important to work through the struggles that can create intense feelings, so that there can be a sense of hope and a light at the end of the tunnel. I look forward to helping you through the whatever challenges you are presently facing and joining you on your journey.
(281) 519-3748 View (281) 519-3748
Photo of Alicia Gregg, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Gregg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Discouragement comes in many forms. My goal is to provide a compassionate environment addressing the discouragement of anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem issues, and other situational stressors. In therapy we collaborate to explore life problems and implement change. With children, my goal is to develop a safe and secure child-centered relationship emphasizing acceptance and empathy. The parent-child relationship is the most important factor for a child’s well-being, so I enjoy helping parents learn to use child-centered techniques to effectively respond to their children’s emotional and behavioral needs.
Discouragement comes in many forms. My goal is to provide a compassionate environment addressing the discouragement of anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, low self-esteem issues, and other situational stressors. In therapy we collaborate to explore life problems and implement change. With children, my goal is to develop a safe and secure child-centered relationship emphasizing acceptance and empathy. The parent-child relationship is the most important factor for a child’s well-being, so I enjoy helping parents learn to use child-centered techniques to effectively respond to their children’s emotional and behavioral needs.
(936) 237-3320 View (936) 237-3320
Photo of Dr. Tawanda Kitchen, EdD, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Tawanda Kitchen
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380  (Online Only)
Dr. Tawanda Kitchen brings a rich academic background, extensive mental health experience to her counseling practice and love for music. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Biola University, a Master’s in Counseling from California State University Fresno, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership & Management from Alliant International University. With a deep commitment to self awareness, Dr. Kitchen’s expertise lies in supporting individuals through the complexities of Adverse Childhood Experiences, Special Education, restorative practice and empowering first-generation college students.
Dr. Tawanda Kitchen brings a rich academic background, extensive mental health experience to her counseling practice and love for music. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communications from Biola University, a Master’s in Counseling from California State University Fresno, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership & Management from Alliant International University. With a deep commitment to self awareness, Dr. Kitchen’s expertise lies in supporting individuals through the complexities of Adverse Childhood Experiences, Special Education, restorative practice and empowering first-generation college students.
(346) 623-1739 View (346) 623-1739
Photo of LaToya Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaToya Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77381
I was purposed for social work. Therefore it's more of a CALLING than a job. Lastly, I am passionate about the work that I do and have a motto by which I live. If I can help somebody as I pass along, then my living shall not be in vain.
I was purposed for social work. Therefore it's more of a CALLING than a job. Lastly, I am passionate about the work that I do and have a motto by which I live. If I can help somebody as I pass along, then my living shall not be in vain.
(281) 502-4332 View (281) 502-4332
Photo of Margaret Giles, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margaret Giles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I believe in treating and facilitating the individual's psychological and emotional transformation through an integrative therapeutic approach. We all yearn for love, acceptance and the capacity to reach our utmost potential! I believe in treating the 'whole person,' as I help guide my clients towards reaching their therapeutic goals through a newfound self-awareness and confidence. With healthier actions and reactions we can move forward in life as more productive, thoughtful and self-aware beings. I believe that therapy connects us more to our authentic selves, and that you can grow, with you, in a newfound space of acceptance.
I believe in treating and facilitating the individual's psychological and emotional transformation through an integrative therapeutic approach. We all yearn for love, acceptance and the capacity to reach our utmost potential! I believe in treating the 'whole person,' as I help guide my clients towards reaching their therapeutic goals through a newfound self-awareness and confidence. With healthier actions and reactions we can move forward in life as more productive, thoughtful and self-aware beings. I believe that therapy connects us more to our authentic selves, and that you can grow, with you, in a newfound space of acceptance.
(936) 939-6230 View (936) 939-6230
Photo of Lisa A Wines - L & A Professional Services, LLC., PhD, LPC-S, CSC, CEO, Licensed Professional Counselor
L & A Professional Services, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, CSC, CEO
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Dr. Wines fundamentally believes people have the capacity to resolve their own problems with awareness and a willingness to change. Her assistance may unlock these abilities, while monitoring and evaluating the process. In relationships, the answers to questions are found by looking at trends and outcomes, along with self-acceptance and a commitment to authentic living. Having a well-balanced life means nurturing oneself and recognizing our existence is made more meaningful when we serve others! Ultimately, true evaluation of the past and present experiences can affect our interpretation of such, which affects how we feel and behave!
Dr. Wines fundamentally believes people have the capacity to resolve their own problems with awareness and a willingness to change. Her assistance may unlock these abilities, while monitoring and evaluating the process. In relationships, the answers to questions are found by looking at trends and outcomes, along with self-acceptance and a commitment to authentic living. Having a well-balanced life means nurturing oneself and recognizing our existence is made more meaningful when we serve others! Ultimately, true evaluation of the past and present experiences can affect our interpretation of such, which affects how we feel and behave!
(832) 981-4298 View (832) 981-4298
Photo of Florencia Hassey - Dr. Hassey: Fyadra Healing & Transformation, PhD, LPC, LMFT, EMDR, Spanish, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Hassey: Fyadra Healing & Transformation
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMFT, EMDR, Spanish
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I am a psychotherapist oriented to people's well being. I will aid you, your partner, and /or children to solve problems, grow, develop skills, and heal. I have over 17 years of experience working with sexual issues, self-esteem, depression, addictions, groups, parenting, couple conflict and children/adolescents. I am multicultural-multilingual professional psychotherapist in U.S.A., Mexico, and Europe. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, and French
I am a psychotherapist oriented to people's well being. I will aid you, your partner, and /or children to solve problems, grow, develop skills, and heal. I have over 17 years of experience working with sexual issues, self-esteem, depression, addictions, groups, parenting, couple conflict and children/adolescents. I am multicultural-multilingual professional psychotherapist in U.S.A., Mexico, and Europe. I am fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, and French
(832) 529-6801 View (832) 529-6801
Photo of Megan de la Pena, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan de la Pena
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Life can be messy and unexpected but that doesn't mean you have to be defeated or debilitated by it. If you are feeling hopeless, helpless, anxious, empty or depressed I may be able to help. My job is to help to alter the focus of external to internal control. We may not be able to control changes in life, but you can be rest assured that I will help and support you to cope with your next big hurdle in life. With a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach, I help by creating an atmosphere necessary for growth and change.
Life can be messy and unexpected but that doesn't mean you have to be defeated or debilitated by it. If you are feeling hopeless, helpless, anxious, empty or depressed I may be able to help. My job is to help to alter the focus of external to internal control. We may not be able to control changes in life, but you can be rest assured that I will help and support you to cope with your next big hurdle in life. With a compassionate and nonjudgmental approach, I help by creating an atmosphere necessary for growth and change.
(281) 972-4234 View (281) 972-4234
Photo of Nadia Sherman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nadia Sherman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
When it comes to psychotherapy, Nadia Sherman's, LPC, approach has always been integrative and holistic, meaning that she draws on theory and interventions from many different schools of thought in order to most effectively address your concerns. She most commonly draws upon an eclectic approach of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), choice theory/reality therapy, existential, and interpersonal models of treatment. Broadly speaking, CBT is a type of intervention that helps patients understand the thoughts & feelings that influence behaviors.
When it comes to psychotherapy, Nadia Sherman's, LPC, approach has always been integrative and holistic, meaning that she draws on theory and interventions from many different schools of thought in order to most effectively address your concerns. She most commonly draws upon an eclectic approach of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), choice theory/reality therapy, existential, and interpersonal models of treatment. Broadly speaking, CBT is a type of intervention that helps patients understand the thoughts & feelings that influence behaviors.
(936) 220-3739 View (936) 220-3739
Photo of Sebrina Cotton, LPCC
Sebrina Cotton
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380  (Online Only)
Do you need more self-awareness, personal growth, and intentional change? If you're seeking support in overcoming obstacles that are holding you back from where you want to be in your life, we may be a great fit for a therapeutic relationship. My style is compassionate and authentic. I create a warm, safe space and bring a genuine listening ear (laughs are also welcomed) to each session. I believe in gently challenging clients in both thoughts and behaviors because I know you're strong enough to handle it, and sometimes we need a little push to highlight our perspectives.
Do you need more self-awareness, personal growth, and intentional change? If you're seeking support in overcoming obstacles that are holding you back from where you want to be in your life, we may be a great fit for a therapeutic relationship. My style is compassionate and authentic. I create a warm, safe space and bring a genuine listening ear (laughs are also welcomed) to each session. I believe in gently challenging clients in both thoughts and behaviors because I know you're strong enough to handle it, and sometimes we need a little push to highlight our perspectives.
(346) 233-1505 View (346) 233-1505
Photo of Sean Alexander, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sean Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77382  (Online Only)
I would like to take the opportunity to welcome you to a place of healing and growth. One of the leading principles that guide my practice is helping you rediscover your personal power to direct your own life in a meaningful and healthy way. So many different types of hardships can rob a person from recognizing their personal power. They can come to believe they have no choices. Trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, abuse, loss, illness, addiction and other hardships can cause a person to live day to day in an endless cycle of struggle. Common life stressors like college, job, divorce, or retirement can be hard to manage as well.
I would like to take the opportunity to welcome you to a place of healing and growth. One of the leading principles that guide my practice is helping you rediscover your personal power to direct your own life in a meaningful and healthy way. So many different types of hardships can rob a person from recognizing their personal power. They can come to believe they have no choices. Trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, abuse, loss, illness, addiction and other hardships can cause a person to live day to day in an endless cycle of struggle. Common life stressors like college, job, divorce, or retirement can be hard to manage as well.
(281) 559-7769 View (281) 559-7769
Photo of Mphatso Khoza, MA, LPCA, NCC
Mphatso Khoza
LPC Associate, MA, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
The Woodlands, TX 77380
As an experienced and empathetic therapist, I specialize in working with people seeking individual or couple's counseling. I provide a warm, non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns. Whether you're navigating personal growth, stress management, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I'll tailor our sessions to your unique needs and goals. With a collaborative and solution-focused approach, I'll support you in developing self-awareness, enhancing communication and intimacy, and cultivating the fulfilling life you desire. Let's embark on this journey together.
As an experienced and empathetic therapist, I specialize in working with people seeking individual or couple's counseling. I provide a warm, non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts, feelings, and patterns. Whether you're navigating personal growth, stress management, life transitions, or relationship challenges, I'll tailor our sessions to your unique needs and goals. With a collaborative and solution-focused approach, I'll support you in developing self-awareness, enhancing communication and intimacy, and cultivating the fulfilling life you desire. Let's embark on this journey together.
(281) 377-9848 View (281) 377-9848
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Gestalt Therapists

What is gestalt therapy?

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

How does gestalt therapy work?

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

How long does gestalt therapy last?

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

Does gestalt therapy work?

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