Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT
![Photo of Jan Cendese, LCSW, LMT, APP, CCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feeb9cfd-5cd3-448f-a1b0-463723435203/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jan Cendese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMT, APP, CCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 37 years’ experience. I am highly skilled in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, EMDR, Transpersonal Therapy, Guided Imagery, Gestalt Therapy and Existential Psychotherapy. My unique ability to bridge the traditional scientific healing model with alternative methods allows me to synthesize multiple methodologies in my approach for each client. I provide them with portable tools and methods to support their goals.
The choice of a therapist to partner with you on your healing journey is a very personal decision. Strict confidentiality is assured.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 37 years’ experience. I am highly skilled in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, EMDR, Transpersonal Therapy, Guided Imagery, Gestalt Therapy and Existential Psychotherapy. My unique ability to bridge the traditional scientific healing model with alternative methods allows me to synthesize multiple methodologies in my approach for each client. I provide them with portable tools and methods to support their goals.
The choice of a therapist to partner with you on your healing journey is a very personal decision. Strict confidentiality is assured.
![Photo of Mind Full Therapy - Mind + Full Therapy, CMHC , LCSW, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/363478c0-b53a-454a-8bc1-9b214a0d939a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mind+Full Therapy is a trauma informed agency that offer a wide variety of therapeutic treatments that go beyond traditional talk therapy including: EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, Gestalt, Somatic and Schema therapy.
At Mind + Full Therapy our focus is to help people get to the root of their issues, not just managing symptoms. We take modern therapeutic approaches based in neuroscience and want to help people looking for alternatives to old, outdated, traditional talk therapy in order to create long-lasting changes. We works with adults and couples who are struggling with trauma or feeling stuck in life, have anxiety, depression, shame, relationship problems, and many other issues. See our therapists and their specialties in the photos or check out our website: mind-fulltherapy.com
Mind+Full Therapy is a trauma informed agency that offer a wide variety of therapeutic treatments that go beyond traditional talk therapy including: EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, Gestalt, Somatic and Schema therapy.
At Mind + Full Therapy our focus is to help people get to the root of their issues, not just managing symptoms. We take modern therapeutic approaches based in neuroscience and want to help people looking for alternatives to old, outdated, traditional talk therapy in order to create long-lasting changes. We works with adults and couples who are struggling with trauma or feeling stuck in life, have anxiety, depression, shame, relationship problems, and many other issues. See our therapists and their specialties in the photos or check out our website: mind-fulltherapy.com
![Photo of Micky Wickersham, LCMHC, SUDC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50bb424c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been trained in a range of modalities, including ART (accelerated Resolution Therapy), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Gestalt, Existential and Experiential Therapies.
Life is often full of twists and turns. Many people struggle with what life can bring and the negative emotional and behavioral responses that follow. My goals and passion are to bring healing to those struggling with stressful experiences. My focus is healing the whole person. I help my clients find their path and create intention and passion in their lives. I have over twenty six years of experience helping clients with addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD and internal conflicts. I can offer ART and EMDR. I know that treatment must be individualized to treat specific needs. I accept insurance and cash pay.
I have been trained in a range of modalities, including ART (accelerated Resolution Therapy), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), EMDR, Gestalt, Existential and Experiential Therapies.
Life is often full of twists and turns. Many people struggle with what life can bring and the negative emotional and behavioral responses that follow. My goals and passion are to bring healing to those struggling with stressful experiences. My focus is healing the whole person. I help my clients find their path and create intention and passion in their lives. I have over twenty six years of experience helping clients with addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD and internal conflicts. I can offer ART and EMDR. I know that treatment must be individualized to treat specific needs. I accept insurance and cash pay.
![Photo of Sarah MacCombie, OTL, ACMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67f22a23-cf4b-4e9a-8eaa-657d230a59e0/2/320x400.jpeg)
As your therapist, my intention is to create a safe environment for you to be and explore yourself. Together we'll bring awareness to your thoughts, feelings, emotions, body sensations, values, desires, memories and more, to deeply understand what its like for you to be you. Awareness opens the door for understanding, self-love, and change. To support your therapeutic journey, I use Transpersonal therapy, Gestalt therapy, Somatic-based trauma therapy, Process Work, CBT, dream work, inner child work, and shadow work. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming therapy and affirming letter writing.
As your therapist, my intention is to create a safe environment for you to be and explore yourself. Together we'll bring awareness to your thoughts, feelings, emotions, body sensations, values, desires, memories and more, to deeply understand what its like for you to be you. Awareness opens the door for understanding, self-love, and change. To support your therapeutic journey, I use Transpersonal therapy, Gestalt therapy, Somatic-based trauma therapy, Process Work, CBT, dream work, inner child work, and shadow work. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirming therapy and affirming letter writing.
![Photo of Austin Ryan-Mas, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fe7b0d8-da68-4305-94a4-539839739390/2/320x400.jpeg)
Austin Ryan-Mas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105 (Online Only)
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma can hinder our ability to authentically and fully engage with life. As a psychotherapist, my practice is grounded in trauma-informed care. I specialize in EMDR, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic therapy. I understand that spirituality plays an important part in many people's healing; and I incorporate a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of biological, mental, and emotional well-being.
Facing challenges like depression, anxiety, and trauma can hinder our ability to authentically and fully engage with life. As a psychotherapist, my practice is grounded in trauma-informed care. I specialize in EMDR, mindfulness-based, and psychodynamic therapy. I understand that spirituality plays an important part in many people's healing; and I incorporate a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of biological, mental, and emotional well-being.
![Photo of Charlotte Wray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/467daf2b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space to explore issues that have created significant barriers to growth, healing, and change. If you've experienced a stressful, troubling event that's left you feeling powerless, you may have been traumatized. I utilize the latest research to help those affected to not only begin the process of healing, but learn how to engage and effectively diminish and manage symptoms. I am trauma-informed, with training in mind body bridging, a holistic therapeutic approach incorporating the mind, body, spirit, and emotions that support the healing process. I am also trained in IBSR, and EMDR.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space to explore issues that have created significant barriers to growth, healing, and change. If you've experienced a stressful, troubling event that's left you feeling powerless, you may have been traumatized. I utilize the latest research to help those affected to not only begin the process of healing, but learn how to engage and effectively diminish and manage symptoms. I am trauma-informed, with training in mind body bridging, a holistic therapeutic approach incorporating the mind, body, spirit, and emotions that support the healing process. I am also trained in IBSR, and EMDR.
![Photo of Don St John, PhD, LCMHC, LMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c99a17a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a result of my own personal and professional exploration over the last 40+ years, I work most effectively with individuals who have not succeeded in establishing and sustaining nourishing, satisfying, intimate, committed, relationships in their lives. At this stage of my career, I am interested in working with individuals or couples who want to enhance their capacity for meaningful, intimate relationships.
As a result of my own personal and professional exploration over the last 40+ years, I work most effectively with individuals who have not succeeded in establishing and sustaining nourishing, satisfying, intimate, committed, relationships in their lives. At this stage of my career, I am interested in working with individuals or couples who want to enhance their capacity for meaningful, intimate relationships.
![Photo of James R Bone, LCSW, MSW, CAC, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1240b3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
James R Bone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CAC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
Feeling stuck! Free yourself starting with a phone call. No matter who you are and whatever the problem, I have trust in the process of change and believe that all people deserve to be treated holistically with safety, confidentiality and no judgement. From my experience, I have seen the therapeutic process lead so many to a better and happier way of living.
Feeling stuck! Free yourself starting with a phone call. No matter who you are and whatever the problem, I have trust in the process of change and believe that all people deserve to be treated holistically with safety, confidentiality and no judgement. From my experience, I have seen the therapeutic process lead so many to a better and happier way of living.
![Photo of Claire McElroy, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/60fe908f-c83d-437f-bfa9-36422a9bd68b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Claire McElroy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84107
I believe everyone has what it takes to find joy, peace, and love in their lives through vulnerability and connection. After working through my own trials, I discovered that I wanted to help others and decided to become a therapist. I found a love for listening to others and trying to understand how their stories have shaped their view of themselves and the world. I enjoy connecting with people by encouraging them to explore new ways to find happiness within themselves and their relationships.
I believe everyone has what it takes to find joy, peace, and love in their lives through vulnerability and connection. After working through my own trials, I discovered that I wanted to help others and decided to become a therapist. I found a love for listening to others and trying to understand how their stories have shaped their view of themselves and the world. I enjoy connecting with people by encouraging them to explore new ways to find happiness within themselves and their relationships.
![Photo of Kate Harline, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9f0f6f3-7fa2-45ba-ab09-325ce4740e4c/7/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Harline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105 (Online Only)
For over eight years, I've enjoyed working with adult individuals who are navigating the effects of trauma, symptoms of depression and anxiety, relationship issues, issues of meaning and identity and existential concerns, women's concerns, life transitions, spirituality/faith related issues, and more. I am an EMDR-trained therapist and utilize this method when it's helpful, but also draw from a variety of methods including transpersonal therapy, psychodynamic approaches, depth work, CBT, DBT, IFS, ACT, and more.
For over eight years, I've enjoyed working with adult individuals who are navigating the effects of trauma, symptoms of depression and anxiety, relationship issues, issues of meaning and identity and existential concerns, women's concerns, life transitions, spirituality/faith related issues, and more. I am an EMDR-trained therapist and utilize this method when it's helpful, but also draw from a variety of methods including transpersonal therapy, psychodynamic approaches, depth work, CBT, DBT, IFS, ACT, and more.
![Photo of Kendyl Leasure, CMHC, SSW, EMDR, BSP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/634cb52c-cb82-4475-af62-49d181cc1257/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kendyl Leasure
Counselor, CMHC, SSW, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84109
Do you struggle with ongoing patterns of behaviors and/or thoughts that you know aren’t helpful, but you can’t seem to change them? Perhaps you’ve even been to therapy before, but the patterns continue. You didn’t “failed” at growth or healing, you just need a different approach to addressing core issues. I take a modern therapeutic approach based in neuroscience, offering alternatives to old, outdated, traditional talk therapy in order to create long-lasting changes. I work with individuals who are feeling stuck in life, have anxiety, depression, shame, trauma, complex trauma, relationship problems, and faith crisis.
Do you struggle with ongoing patterns of behaviors and/or thoughts that you know aren’t helpful, but you can’t seem to change them? Perhaps you’ve even been to therapy before, but the patterns continue. You didn’t “failed” at growth or healing, you just need a different approach to addressing core issues. I take a modern therapeutic approach based in neuroscience, offering alternatives to old, outdated, traditional talk therapy in order to create long-lasting changes. I work with individuals who are feeling stuck in life, have anxiety, depression, shame, trauma, complex trauma, relationship problems, and faith crisis.
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![Photo of Sandra Chacon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/320af53c-7de6-41f4-a733-53dfafc93b73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sandra Chacon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84103
I can fluently provide counseling in English & Spanish. I like using a non-pathological and teamwork approach where the clients are the experts of their own lives. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, and children, focusing on helping them reach their desired goals. To do so, I use the following evidence-based perspectives: CBT, DBT, EMDR, Gottman (Couples), Play Therapy, and Mindfulness. I have noticed that clients seek more self-improvement after graduating from our therapy work. We would be a great fit if you are highly motivated to do the job.
I can fluently provide counseling in English & Spanish. I like using a non-pathological and teamwork approach where the clients are the experts of their own lives. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, and children, focusing on helping them reach their desired goals. To do so, I use the following evidence-based perspectives: CBT, DBT, EMDR, Gottman (Couples), Play Therapy, and Mindfulness. I have noticed that clients seek more self-improvement after graduating from our therapy work. We would be a great fit if you are highly motivated to do the job.
![Photo of Brittany Bickley, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4329f60c-1fba-4fb3-9a64-b8594cd02904/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Bickley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
My approach to therapy is based in my trust in the resilience of people and my passion for helping people grow and heal. I serve individuals by integrating a range of therapeutic techniques catered to the individual needs of my clients. I often work with people on addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD. Making the decision to start counseling is a brave and hopeful act. I'm committed to providing a safe environment where you may talk about your struggles and sources of inspiration.
My approach to therapy is based in my trust in the resilience of people and my passion for helping people grow and heal. I serve individuals by integrating a range of therapeutic techniques catered to the individual needs of my clients. I often work with people on addressing anxiety, depression, trauma, and OCD. Making the decision to start counseling is a brave and hopeful act. I'm committed to providing a safe environment where you may talk about your struggles and sources of inspiration.
![Photo of Julare Morris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ad0494d-fd36-451d-b97d-ea6f4757a297/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julare Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Tired of scrolling seemingly endless profiles? Reach out for a FREE 15-min Zoom consult: LiberatedMind.care. Pain is a part of life and can stem from feelings of anxiety, depression, change, loss of a loved one, or being let go from a job. Events like these can be all consuming, leaving little time to adapt. But life seems to demand that we just keep moving forward. On the outside we often look like we “have it together” but on the inside, you feel like you are falling apart. You feel like no one truly understands the hurt you are experiencing. It’s as if everyone wants you to be the person you used to be.
Tired of scrolling seemingly endless profiles? Reach out for a FREE 15-min Zoom consult: LiberatedMind.care. Pain is a part of life and can stem from feelings of anxiety, depression, change, loss of a loved one, or being let go from a job. Events like these can be all consuming, leaving little time to adapt. But life seems to demand that we just keep moving forward. On the outside we often look like we “have it together” but on the inside, you feel like you are falling apart. You feel like no one truly understands the hurt you are experiencing. It’s as if everyone wants you to be the person you used to be.
![Photo of Dr. Staci Sandvik, DBH, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed14689d-0ac0-44da-a0e9-9b740fd79e76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Staci Sandvik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
SEP Somatic Experiencing Practitioner helping clients who have tried traditional therapy, yet continue to suffer from unresolved normalized & developmental trauma, emotional distress, faith transition, codependency & attachment. I specialize in modernized therapeutic interventions using an integrated approach. I feel it is important to understand how the past impacts the present, allowing the subconscious presence for reprocessing. I believe that it is crucial to help clients learn to pay attention to thoughts, feelings, & physical sensations in the moment building an empowered resiliency needed to move beyond their distress.
SEP Somatic Experiencing Practitioner helping clients who have tried traditional therapy, yet continue to suffer from unresolved normalized & developmental trauma, emotional distress, faith transition, codependency & attachment. I specialize in modernized therapeutic interventions using an integrated approach. I feel it is important to understand how the past impacts the present, allowing the subconscious presence for reprocessing. I believe that it is crucial to help clients learn to pay attention to thoughts, feelings, & physical sensations in the moment building an empowered resiliency needed to move beyond their distress.
![Photo of Kim Garner - Kim Garner, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ceed19b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Garner, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Therapy can support and help cultivate the rich well within especially during times of seeming drought. I provide a safe co-created space supporting one's personal journey of healing. My therapeutic style is warm and personal. Meeting each clients' unique needs by focusing on personal strengths, growth and positive change. I work with young adult women and men, adolescents and families.
Therapy can support and help cultivate the rich well within especially during times of seeming drought. I provide a safe co-created space supporting one's personal journey of healing. My therapeutic style is warm and personal. Meeting each clients' unique needs by focusing on personal strengths, growth and positive change. I work with young adult women and men, adolescents and families.
![Photo of Clifton Rueben Uckerman - Outpatient Behavioral Health, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11642604-8d9c-403c-883d-b5790b81c7a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Outpatient Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Do you have previous treatment trauma? Had a bad experience with the traditional service delivery system? Need help de-consuming from unhelpful consumables including psych meds? Looking for Medical Cannabis? Ready for more holistic health and wellness? Are you experiencing signs of unresolved trauma, loss/grief, or shame? OBH is a liberation clinic, that is anti-racist, and focuses on the underlying traumas related to health & abilities, gender, sexuality, race, immigration, religion, etc. that forms to express as anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, addiction, and ADHD. We can help with FMLA and student registration appeals.
Do you have previous treatment trauma? Had a bad experience with the traditional service delivery system? Need help de-consuming from unhelpful consumables including psych meds? Looking for Medical Cannabis? Ready for more holistic health and wellness? Are you experiencing signs of unresolved trauma, loss/grief, or shame? OBH is a liberation clinic, that is anti-racist, and focuses on the underlying traumas related to health & abilities, gender, sexuality, race, immigration, religion, etc. that forms to express as anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, addiction, and ADHD. We can help with FMLA and student registration appeals.
![Photo of Stephanie Todd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7ced6a8-fb25-4b0a-9f27-6b950e8f6b2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Todd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84117
As a therapist, my approach to therapy is deeply rooted in the power of human connection. I believe that the quality of our therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of healing and growth. You can receive therapy from (almost) anyone, but the sense of trust, warmth, and comfort (or sometimes discomfort) you experience with a therapist can be the deciding factor between significant change and desired positive growth. In my practice, I'm dedicated to nurturing a safe and empowering space.
As a therapist, my approach to therapy is deeply rooted in the power of human connection. I believe that the quality of our therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone of healing and growth. You can receive therapy from (almost) anyone, but the sense of trust, warmth, and comfort (or sometimes discomfort) you experience with a therapist can be the deciding factor between significant change and desired positive growth. In my practice, I'm dedicated to nurturing a safe and empowering space.
![Photo of Sara Collins, MA, LMFT, CEFT, NCSP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b866d2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEFT, NCSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
I'm a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist and my specialty is working with couples and individuals who are facing relationship challenges. What if life with your partner could be as fulfilling as you crave? If you're experiencing frustrating arguments, loneliness, or desperation for a change, I can help you find warmth, respect, and connection. We'll work as a team to help you recognize your strengths, identify areas you want to improve, and help you to create a more fulfilling relationship. With experience, advanced training, and compassion, I offer an individualized approach to help you experience the relationship you desire.
I'm a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist and my specialty is working with couples and individuals who are facing relationship challenges. What if life with your partner could be as fulfilling as you crave? If you're experiencing frustrating arguments, loneliness, or desperation for a change, I can help you find warmth, respect, and connection. We'll work as a team to help you recognize your strengths, identify areas you want to improve, and help you to create a more fulfilling relationship. With experience, advanced training, and compassion, I offer an individualized approach to help you experience the relationship you desire.
![Photo of Krista D. Clement, MSW, LCSW, GCP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/364ea3af-83e9-4b56-b3b5-d105aee72bf6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Krista D. Clement
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, GCP
Verified Verified
Salt Lake City, UT 84106
Loss is hard. Change is hard. Relationships are hard. I offer a warm, safe, collaborative space to assist you on needs and goals, improve relationships, heal abuse and trauma, and go from surviving to thriving. Even though healing is hard it can also be an exciting, playful, and soul expanding journey! I am trauma trained and informed (ART, EMDR, Flash method, IFS) and approach therapy from an integrative and experiential standpoint. “If we climb high enough, we will reach a height from which tragedy ceases to look tragic.” (Yalom).
Loss is hard. Change is hard. Relationships are hard. I offer a warm, safe, collaborative space to assist you on needs and goals, improve relationships, heal abuse and trauma, and go from surviving to thriving. Even though healing is hard it can also be an exciting, playful, and soul expanding journey! I am trauma trained and informed (ART, EMDR, Flash method, IFS) and approach therapy from an integrative and experiential standpoint. “If we climb high enough, we will reach a height from which tragedy ceases to look tragic.” (Yalom).
See more therapy options for Salt Lake City
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.