Therapists in Isle Of Wight County, VA

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Online Therapists

Photo of Rebecca Fry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Fry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Drawing from approaches in Gestalt, reality, client-centered, cognitive behavioral, and expressive therapy, Rebecca is able to provide a truly custom approach to help her clients to reach personal goals.
Rebecca Fry is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has always been passionate about helping others. Energetic, enthusiastic, and extremely conscientious, Rebecca’s unique personality equips her to provide friendly, loving, and wise counseling from a person-centered approach. She specializes in depression, anxiety, identity, sexual trauma, family of origin dysfunction, self-esteem, and confidence.
Drawing from approaches in Gestalt, reality, client-centered, cognitive behavioral, and expressive therapy, Rebecca is able to provide a truly custom approach to help her clients to reach personal goals.
Rebecca Fry is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has always been passionate about helping others. Energetic, enthusiastic, and extremely conscientious, Rebecca’s unique personality equips her to provide friendly, loving, and wise counseling from a person-centered approach. She specializes in depression, anxiety, identity, sexual trauma, family of origin dysfunction, self-esteem, and confidence.
(571) 568-7870 View (571) 568-7870
Photo of Michele Haynam, LPC, CSAC, CSOTP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele Haynam
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC, CSOTP, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606
I integrate a blend of Cognitive, Behavioral, Gestalt, and Solution Focused tools and techniques (and let's not forget humor), to support individuals to make sense of who they are and their ideal path forward.
Have you been concerned with your child or teen's behavior? Or have you wanted to talk to "someone" about your relationship(s) or disappointment(s) with not being where you thought you would be at this stage of life? It's time to stop thinking and make the call to start the conversation that can change your life. Working collaboratively with the right counselor can support you in living your best life. I look forward to hearing from you! "The mind is everything. What you think you become." Buddha
I integrate a blend of Cognitive, Behavioral, Gestalt, and Solution Focused tools and techniques (and let's not forget humor), to support individuals to make sense of who they are and their ideal path forward.
Have you been concerned with your child or teen's behavior? Or have you wanted to talk to "someone" about your relationship(s) or disappointment(s) with not being where you thought you would be at this stage of life? It's time to stop thinking and make the call to start the conversation that can change your life. Working collaboratively with the right counselor can support you in living your best life. I look forward to hearing from you! "The mind is everything. What you think you become." Buddha
(757) 500-5170 View (757) 500-5170
Photo of Bevin Jones, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bevin Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
My work focuses on improving your awareness, freedom, and self-direction toward growth, fulfillment, healing, and wisdom utilizing humanistic forms including Gestalt and Existential therapy, supported by person-centered, mind-body, and trauma-informed care.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) with 25 years of experience committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults learn how to achieve their potential.
My work focuses on improving your awareness, freedom, and self-direction toward growth, fulfillment, healing, and wisdom utilizing humanistic forms including Gestalt and Existential therapy, supported by person-centered, mind-body, and trauma-informed care.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Substance Abuse Treatment Practitioner (LSATP), and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) with 25 years of experience committed to helping children, adolescents, and adults learn how to achieve their potential.
(804) 557-4028 View (804) 557-4028
Photo of Emireth Cancino, BS, MS, NCC
Emireth Cancino
Resident in Counseling, BS, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188
I utilize Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in my counseling work, tempered with an appreciation for the healing power of the counseling relationship and the importance of a good client-counselor connection.
I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients ranging from adolescents to older adults, providing me with valuable experience in supporting individuals in their personal growth and development. My experience includes working with mood disorders, personality disorders, and other conditions. I particularly value self-motivated clients committed to making positive changes and actively engaged in the therapeutic process.
I utilize Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in my counseling work, tempered with an appreciation for the healing power of the counseling relationship and the importance of a good client-counselor connection.
I have had the privilege of working with diverse clients ranging from adolescents to older adults, providing me with valuable experience in supporting individuals in their personal growth and development. My experience includes working with mood disorders, personality disorders, and other conditions. I particularly value self-motivated clients committed to making positive changes and actively engaged in the therapeutic process.
(757) 600-0983 View (757) 600-0983
Photo of Natasha M Joyner, LCSW, LSATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natasha M Joyner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSATP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
Theory based practice with heavy emphasis in cognitive-behavioral therapy, gestalt, strength based, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy and solution focused.
Client focus is on building strengths and recognizing how to apply those strengths in areas of life causing distress or interruption in reaching full potential. Clients seeking therapy from this therapist should be prepared to move at their pace. However, being open to discussion and evaluation of issues that create barriers. In addition to examining the approach and thought patterns that may be inhibiting overall improved well-being and success. Prepare yourself for an open dialogue, support, and putting your best forward in the change process. Allow me to assist in your journey.
Theory based practice with heavy emphasis in cognitive-behavioral therapy, gestalt, strength based, motivational interviewing, dialectical behavioral therapy and solution focused.
Client focus is on building strengths and recognizing how to apply those strengths in areas of life causing distress or interruption in reaching full potential. Clients seeking therapy from this therapist should be prepared to move at their pace. However, being open to discussion and evaluation of issues that create barriers. In addition to examining the approach and thought patterns that may be inhibiting overall improved well-being and success. Prepare yourself for an open dialogue, support, and putting your best forward in the change process. Allow me to assist in your journey.
(804) 409-0643 View (804) 409-0643
Photo of Mackenzie Green, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mackenzie Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I can provide a wealth of knowledge relating to child psychology and play therapy in addition to CBT and Gestalt techniques for adults.
I specialize in working with highly self-aware, resilient, and determined individuals who excel academically and professionally, but face challenges in their personal relationships due to emotional trauma, anxiety, and low self-esteem. My goal is to equip you with the skills and mindset necessary to cultivate positive relationships and a healthy outlook on life. I approach this by emphasizing empathy, compassion, and a realistic perspective to foster a responsive and intentional approach towards yourself and others. Let's work together to establish a positive relationship with yourself and the world around you.
I can provide a wealth of knowledge relating to child psychology and play therapy in addition to CBT and Gestalt techniques for adults.
I specialize in working with highly self-aware, resilient, and determined individuals who excel academically and professionally, but face challenges in their personal relationships due to emotional trauma, anxiety, and low self-esteem. My goal is to equip you with the skills and mindset necessary to cultivate positive relationships and a healthy outlook on life. I approach this by emphasizing empathy, compassion, and a realistic perspective to foster a responsive and intentional approach towards yourself and others. Let's work together to establish a positive relationship with yourself and the world around you.
(804) 889-2621 View (804) 889-2621
Photo of Rae-Anne Dougan - Dougan and Walden Wellness, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
Dougan and Walden Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23114
For couples I use practical Gestalt techniques.
I am happy you are here... Life can be challenging and even unbearable at times. I understand that. Whether you are experiencing a loss, having relationship difficulties, or simply desiring to make a change, we can find the path that reveals your best self together. I have a diverse professional background and can offer you counseling that is flexible and best suits your needs.
For couples I use practical Gestalt techniques.
I am happy you are here... Life can be challenging and even unbearable at times. I understand that. Whether you are experiencing a loss, having relationship difficulties, or simply desiring to make a change, we can find the path that reveals your best self together. I have a diverse professional background and can offer you counseling that is flexible and best suits your needs.
(804) 409-2620 View (804) 409-2620
Photo of Lemuel Osbert Williams, MA, CT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lemuel Osbert Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CT, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23502
As a Marriage/Family, Individual and Adolescent Therapist, I subscribe to trauma-informed strength based, Cognitive Behavioral and Gestalt models of therapies, believing in the importance and connection of choice, empowerment, thinking and feeling for creating long-lasting change within individuals and their varying "parts of self".
"Life without change is not living; To be uncomfortable means that change is right around the corner!" I believe these words wholeheartedly as every individual arrives at a crossroads that determine whether they move forward, backward or remain stagnant. I work alongside those who may be within a crossroad in life that has them questioning which direction to choose. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.
As a Marriage/Family, Individual and Adolescent Therapist, I subscribe to trauma-informed strength based, Cognitive Behavioral and Gestalt models of therapies, believing in the importance and connection of choice, empowerment, thinking and feeling for creating long-lasting change within individuals and their varying "parts of self".
"Life without change is not living; To be uncomfortable means that change is right around the corner!" I believe these words wholeheartedly as every individual arrives at a crossroads that determine whether they move forward, backward or remain stagnant. I work alongside those who may be within a crossroad in life that has them questioning which direction to choose. In my work as a Therapist, my clinical training and experience encompasses depression, couples enrichment, grief/loss, separation/divorce, relationship issues, and other emotional/interpersonal disturbances. I specialize in trauma such as sexual abuse, domestic violence, and death/illness.
(757) 663-5958 View (757) 663-5958
Photo of John Daniel McKeal, LPC, MS, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Daniel McKeal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23185
I offer a variety of therapeutic interventions from CBT, EMDR, REBT, DBT to Solution Focused, Gestalt and others.
I like to consider myself a therapeutic guide for my clients. Through a variety of therapeutic techniques we will go on a journey wherein my clients will learn about themselves. Throughout this journey we will confront obstacles, overcome anxieties, conquer fears and face down issues that are everything from minor struggles to major life issues. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions so as never to be a "one size fits all" therapist. Every man, woman and child comes to therapy seeking inner peace, stability or just a safe space to talk. I like to think I can be that safe space for all of my clients.
I offer a variety of therapeutic interventions from CBT, EMDR, REBT, DBT to Solution Focused, Gestalt and others.
I like to consider myself a therapeutic guide for my clients. Through a variety of therapeutic techniques we will go on a journey wherein my clients will learn about themselves. Throughout this journey we will confront obstacles, overcome anxieties, conquer fears and face down issues that are everything from minor struggles to major life issues. I utilize a variety of therapeutic interventions so as never to be a "one size fits all" therapist. Every man, woman and child comes to therapy seeking inner peace, stability or just a safe space to talk. I like to think I can be that safe space for all of my clients.
(757) 703-4733 View (757) 703-4733
Photo of Kate R Knapp, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate R Knapp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188
I have been trained in DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Narrative, Gottman Marriage Therapy level I and II certified and Solution Focused therapies, which provide direction for sessions.
I believe that therapy offers a unique and safe place to heal and grow. Walking through my clients' difficulties with them creates a space to promote healing and growth. I enjoy the challenge of supporting clients as they gain a sense of empowerment. I work with people from all faith backgrounds, and while I do not consider myself to be solely a "Christian counselor", my faith is a large part of my life and I invite clients to lead the role that faith plays in our work together. I work with individuals as well as couples. My work has included supporting people who experience anxiety, depression, poor relationships and life changes.
I have been trained in DBT, CBT, Gestalt, Narrative, Gottman Marriage Therapy level I and II certified and Solution Focused therapies, which provide direction for sessions.
I believe that therapy offers a unique and safe place to heal and grow. Walking through my clients' difficulties with them creates a space to promote healing and growth. I enjoy the challenge of supporting clients as they gain a sense of empowerment. I work with people from all faith backgrounds, and while I do not consider myself to be solely a "Christian counselor", my faith is a large part of my life and I invite clients to lead the role that faith plays in our work together. I work with individuals as well as couples. My work has included supporting people who experience anxiety, depression, poor relationships and life changes.
(585) 492-6045 View (585) 492-6045
Photo of Hannah White
Hannah White
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060
I utilize different modalities such as Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gestalt Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy.
Everyone is on a personal journey with many paths to choose from. My goal is to help you navigate that journey as you come to bumps in the road. Through enhanced coping skills and client centered care, I work with you to overcome the challenges you face. I am an empathetic counselor who assists people of all backgrounds prevail over the difficulties in their lives. I take a collaborative approach to empower clients in their daily lives by teaching them new skills and strengthening those they already possess.
I utilize different modalities such as Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Gestalt Therapy, and Strengths-Based Therapy.
Everyone is on a personal journey with many paths to choose from. My goal is to help you navigate that journey as you come to bumps in the road. Through enhanced coping skills and client centered care, I work with you to overcome the challenges you face. I am an empathetic counselor who assists people of all backgrounds prevail over the difficulties in their lives. I take a collaborative approach to empower clients in their daily lives by teaching them new skills and strengthening those they already possess.
(804) 465-9850 View (804) 465-9850
Photo of Cristyl Word, MS, LPC, CSOTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cristyl Word
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Kenbridge, VA 23944  (Online Only)
I have worked in a variety of settings throughout the years to include public schools, an inpatient psychiatric facility, the criminal justice system, and virtual mental health sessions. Populations I have assisted in their journey to mental health and wellness include children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly; physically handicapped, intellectually disabled, emotionally disturbed, and seriously mentally ill. My life experiences have molded me into a genuinely empathetic clinician who is able to connect with clients and help to empower them as they heal and grow.
I have worked in a variety of settings throughout the years to include public schools, an inpatient psychiatric facility, the criminal justice system, and virtual mental health sessions. Populations I have assisted in their journey to mental health and wellness include children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly; physically handicapped, intellectually disabled, emotionally disturbed, and seriously mentally ill. My life experiences have molded me into a genuinely empathetic clinician who is able to connect with clients and help to empower them as they heal and grow.
(434) 595-4468 View (434) 595-4468
Photo of Melissa Beth Turner - Melissa B. Turner, LCSW, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa B. Turner, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229
The needs of each person are unique. My experience and training allow me to offer both integrated and specific therapies to help clients who are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, life stress and adjustment issues. If you have experienced troublesome or traumatic life events, I will work with you on alleviating negative symptoms and modifying unhealthy behaviors that impact you and those close to you. I offer many therapeutic approaches to healing such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT(cognitive behavioral therapy) and DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy). I strive to help clients harness their strengths to achieve more confidence and independence.
The needs of each person are unique. My experience and training allow me to offer both integrated and specific therapies to help clients who are struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety, life stress and adjustment issues. If you have experienced troublesome or traumatic life events, I will work with you on alleviating negative symptoms and modifying unhealthy behaviors that impact you and those close to you. I offer many therapeutic approaches to healing such as psychodynamic psychotherapy, CBT(cognitive behavioral therapy) and DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy). I strive to help clients harness their strengths to achieve more confidence and independence.
(804) 265-4337 View (804) 265-4337
Photo of Emily Kerschen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Kerschen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223
Emily is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience in the field of behavioral health, specializing in trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, and major life transitions. Emily has experience working within acute and residential mental health settings. She is passionate about the holistic approach, recognizing the effect of life's experience on the body, and individualizing treatment to each of her clients.
Emily is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 8 years of experience in the field of behavioral health, specializing in trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, eating disorders, and major life transitions. Emily has experience working within acute and residential mental health settings. She is passionate about the holistic approach, recognizing the effect of life's experience on the body, and individualizing treatment to each of her clients.
(804) 391-9389 View (804) 391-9389
Photo of Cassidy R Van de Graaf, LPC, MS, NCC, CCTSI, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassidy R Van de Graaf
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC, CCTSI
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals 18 and older dealing with anxiety, depression, life-transitions, PTSD/trauma symptoms, abusive relationships, interpersonal difficulties, relationship troubles, career difficulties, and grief. I have worked extensively with many age groups including college/graduate students, veterans in regard to PTSD and trauma, as well as, mothers, fathers, the LGBTQIA population, and lastly, adults on the autism spectrum. My approach in the therapy room is client-centered, always making sure my client feels comfortable, heard, understood, but challenged.
I have experience working with individuals 18 and older dealing with anxiety, depression, life-transitions, PTSD/trauma symptoms, abusive relationships, interpersonal difficulties, relationship troubles, career difficulties, and grief. I have worked extensively with many age groups including college/graduate students, veterans in regard to PTSD and trauma, as well as, mothers, fathers, the LGBTQIA population, and lastly, adults on the autism spectrum. My approach in the therapy room is client-centered, always making sure my client feels comfortable, heard, understood, but challenged.
(804) 534-1009 View (804) 534-1009
Photo of Sharlene Hamilton - Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC, LPC, NCC, CCHMC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCHMC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ruther Glen, VA 22546
Cardinal Family Counseling is a team of experienced Licensed Counselors and Residents in Counseling providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We help clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, and behavioral Issues. We use a variety of techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques to guide clients through their difficulties.
Cardinal Family Counseling is a team of experienced Licensed Counselors and Residents in Counseling providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We help clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, and behavioral Issues. We use a variety of techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques to guide clients through their difficulties.
(804) 294-4310 View (804) 294-4310
Photo of Valerie Fowlkes, Pre-Licensed Professional
Valerie Fowlkes
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, VA 23832  (Online Only)
Valerie Fowlkes is a Licensed Resident in Counseling with 3 years of experience serving clients in various settings including public schools, therapeutic day treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment programs, and mental health agencies. She specializes in assisting adults and adolescents who have a range of concerns such as relationship issues, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, women's issues, parenting challenges, and behavioral problems. Additionally, Valerie is skilled in providing premarital, marital, and couple counseling to her clients.
Valerie Fowlkes is a Licensed Resident in Counseling with 3 years of experience serving clients in various settings including public schools, therapeutic day treatment facilities, substance abuse treatment programs, and mental health agencies. She specializes in assisting adults and adolescents who have a range of concerns such as relationship issues, childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, anger, women's issues, parenting challenges, and behavioral problems. Additionally, Valerie is skilled in providing premarital, marital, and couple counseling to her clients.
(804) 374-9574 View (804) 374-9574
Photo of Sydney Villeneuve, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sydney Villeneuve
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23229  (Online Only)
I believe that healing is ongoing, met by exploring what feels vulnerable. I feel called to supportively hold space for adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, and relationship challenges. My clients and I work through issues that are impacting their relationships and life. I serve as a guide for my clients as they work on shifting how they view themselves and the world we share through improving self-esteem, self-worth, and relational dynamics. I find value in processing how life experiences have shaped who we are and who we are becoming. My approach is depth-based, with a focus on attachment theory.
I believe that healing is ongoing, met by exploring what feels vulnerable. I feel called to supportively hold space for adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma symptoms, and relationship challenges. My clients and I work through issues that are impacting their relationships and life. I serve as a guide for my clients as they work on shifting how they view themselves and the world we share through improving self-esteem, self-worth, and relational dynamics. I find value in processing how life experiences have shaped who we are and who we are becoming. My approach is depth-based, with a focus on attachment theory.
(804) 322-9955 View (804) 322-9955
Photo of Adam M. Hanson, MSEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam M. Hanson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I believe that building and maintaining good mental health can be similar to fostering any other type of personal development; it requires patience, commitment, and practice. I've worked extensively with individuals seeking career advice, as well as with youths, teens, adults, and families struggling with mental health issues and adjustment difficulties. I'm interested in collaborating with clients on creative ways to facilitate change.
I believe that building and maintaining good mental health can be similar to fostering any other type of personal development; it requires patience, commitment, and practice. I've worked extensively with individuals seeking career advice, as well as with youths, teens, adults, and families struggling with mental health issues and adjustment difficulties. I'm interested in collaborating with clients on creative ways to facilitate change.
(757) 993-8294 View (757) 993-8294
Photo of Alyssa Hartman, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Hartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
Are you at a crossroads of wanting to let go of the stress in your life, but feel unsure of where to start? Is your mind flooded with unfinished tasks or projects, and every time you start to claw your way ahead of it, something happens to knock you back down? Maybe you feel the pressure to carry the mental load and responsibility for others, leaving no time or energy for yourself? Life can be so busy that we forget about the most important relationship we have.. with ourselves! My goal is to help you truly know and love yourself, trust your decision-making and uncover the strengths within so you may live a life you are proud of.
Are you at a crossroads of wanting to let go of the stress in your life, but feel unsure of where to start? Is your mind flooded with unfinished tasks or projects, and every time you start to claw your way ahead of it, something happens to knock you back down? Maybe you feel the pressure to carry the mental load and responsibility for others, leaving no time or energy for yourself? Life can be so busy that we forget about the most important relationship we have.. with ourselves! My goal is to help you truly know and love yourself, trust your decision-making and uncover the strengths within so you may live a life you are proud of.
(757) 780-8462 View (757) 780-8462

See more therapy options for Isle Of Wight 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.