Gestalt Counselling in Ilkeston

Photo of Liz Brown-Vilela - Jacaranda Therapy
Jacaranda Therapy
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Hi, I'm Liz and I work with children and young people at Jacaranda Therapy as an Accredited Play and Creative Arts Therapist. Childhood and adolescence can be really difficult for a number of reasons, and play therapy and creative arts counselling is an amazing way to help young people explore and express their emotions in a safe space, and find healthy coping mechanisms to help them in the future so that they can thrive and have the best outcomes possible. I use an integrative, holistic approach where young people have a choice of mediums to use including paint, sand, lego, clay, puppets, role play, sensory activities, books.
Hi, I'm Liz and I work with children and young people at Jacaranda Therapy as an Accredited Play and Creative Arts Therapist. Childhood and adolescence can be really difficult for a number of reasons, and play therapy and creative arts counselling is an amazing way to help young people explore and express their emotions in a safe space, and find healthy coping mechanisms to help them in the future so that they can thrive and have the best outcomes possible. I use an integrative, holistic approach where young people have a choice of mediums to use including paint, sand, lego, clay, puppets, role play, sensory activities, books.
01328 801649 View 01328 801649
Photo of Paul Robert Brown - Paul Brown Therapist , Psychotherapist, MBACP
Paul Brown Therapist
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Serves Area
Lack of purpose and meaning in your life. Is anxiety, depression, or poor mental health holding you back from living a fuller, more meaningful, happier life. Together we can learn how to break free from the pain. My goal is always to understand you and to know how it feels to walk in your shoes. Using a dynamic approach, tailored to you and your needs, we will explore your experience together. I practice how I live, authentically and with honesty. My approach to therapy is relational. Healing occurs within the therapeutic relationship and through effective strategies that address whatever is holding you back.
Lack of purpose and meaning in your life. Is anxiety, depression, or poor mental health holding you back from living a fuller, more meaningful, happier life. Together we can learn how to break free from the pain. My goal is always to understand you and to know how it feels to walk in your shoes. Using a dynamic approach, tailored to you and your needs, we will explore your experience together. I practice how I live, authentically and with honesty. My approach to therapy is relational. Healing occurs within the therapeutic relationship and through effective strategies that address whatever is holding you back.
01777 801280 View 01777 801280
Photo of Suzie Ford, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Suzie Ford
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adults of all ages who experience challenge and overwhelm in their lives. Whether you are going through something new or you have been feeling this way for a while, I am here and wanting to support you. My areas of work include: family issues; relationship problems; shame; trauma; sexual difficulties; chronic pain; anxiety; depression; self-esteem issues; personality disorders; infertility; abuse; loss; bullying; and neglect.
I work with adults of all ages who experience challenge and overwhelm in their lives. Whether you are going through something new or you have been feeling this way for a while, I am here and wanting to support you. My areas of work include: family issues; relationship problems; shame; trauma; sexual difficulties; chronic pain; anxiety; depression; self-esteem issues; personality disorders; infertility; abuse; loss; bullying; and neglect.
0115 647 1161 View 0115 647 1161

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicola Moore, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Nicola Moore
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
2 Endorsed
Belper DE56
I am a Integrative therapist, drawing from approaches such as person-centered, Gestalt, psychodynamic, and somatic body work.
Struggling with binge eating? Caught in a cycle of “I’ll start again tomorrow”? Do you feel trapped, overwhelmed by thoughts of food and weight, yet unable to stop? Maybe you feel ashamed or disgusted, hiding evidence of binge episodes, hoping no one sees the real you. Perhaps you’ve tried every diet, only to find yourself back in the same cycle, questioning if things will ever change. Imagine a life where food doesn’t control you. With the right support, you can break the binge cycle and create a healthier relationship with food, yourself and your body.
I am a Integrative therapist, drawing from approaches such as person-centered, Gestalt, psychodynamic, and somatic body work.
Struggling with binge eating? Caught in a cycle of “I’ll start again tomorrow”? Do you feel trapped, overwhelmed by thoughts of food and weight, yet unable to stop? Maybe you feel ashamed or disgusted, hiding evidence of binge episodes, hoping no one sees the real you. Perhaps you’ve tried every diet, only to find yourself back in the same cycle, questioning if things will ever change. Imagine a life where food doesn’t control you. With the right support, you can break the binge cycle and create a healthier relationship with food, yourself and your body.
07447 401975 View 07447 401975
Photo of Louise Knowles, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Louise Knowles
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
My approach integrates person-centered and Gestalt psychotherapy, alongside executive coaching training, tailored to your needs.
I have extensive experience working with individuals facing work-based challenges, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, abuse, gender and sexuality issues, and low self-esteem. I offer individual and group therapy, clinical supervision, and coaching, supporting people through personal and professional challenges to foster personal
My approach integrates person-centered and Gestalt psychotherapy, alongside executive coaching training, tailored to your needs.
I have extensive experience working with individuals facing work-based challenges, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, stress, grief, abuse, gender and sexuality issues, and low self-esteem. I offer individual and group therapy, clinical supervision, and coaching, supporting people through personal and professional challenges to foster personal
01724 514338 View 01724 514338
Photo of Tania Outwin-Flinders, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Tania Outwin-Flinders
Psychotherapist, MBACP
I consider the whole person, mind, body and spirit, integrating elements from the Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and Person Centred approaches which support the Humanistic foundation of my work.
I understand that seeking help can feel like a big step. It's perfectly okay to feel unsure at first, but taking that first step can often lead to positive change. I'm here to listen without judgement, and to support you to find the best way forward. Counselling can provide you with the tools to manage anxiety, improve your mental well-being, and gain clarity on decisions. I am passionate about supporting people to live authentic, fulfilling lives and through a holistic, non-directive, client-centred approach, I aim to promote autonomy and self-empowerment. I offer a safe, compassionate, inclusive space where you can be yourself.
I consider the whole person, mind, body and spirit, integrating elements from the Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and Person Centred approaches which support the Humanistic foundation of my work.
I understand that seeking help can feel like a big step. It's perfectly okay to feel unsure at first, but taking that first step can often lead to positive change. I'm here to listen without judgement, and to support you to find the best way forward. Counselling can provide you with the tools to manage anxiety, improve your mental well-being, and gain clarity on decisions. I am passionate about supporting people to live authentic, fulfilling lives and through a holistic, non-directive, client-centred approach, I aim to promote autonomy and self-empowerment. I offer a safe, compassionate, inclusive space where you can be yourself.
01530 441082 View 01530 441082
Photo of Paloma McMullan, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Paloma McMullan
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Waitlist for new clients
Using a developmental-relational model as the foundation for my practice, I will integrate aspects of different modalities (such as Psychoanalysis, Object Relations, Self-Psychology, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis, Person Centred and CBT) to create a customised approach which is compatible with your history, way-of-being, skill set and goals.
Does it seem like others are coping better, enjoying more successful lives or more fulfilling relationships? I'm here to help. Level 7-qualified, I work at depth- engaging with underlying patterns and processes- to support your journey of self-discovery, healing and personal growth. In practice since 2015, I have supported a diverse range of clients. I work with individuals, not issues per se, hence- whether we were undertaking short or longer-term therapy- I would focus upon engaging with you as a whole person; multifaceted, with a unique history and a distinct way-of-being.
Using a developmental-relational model as the foundation for my practice, I will integrate aspects of different modalities (such as Psychoanalysis, Object Relations, Self-Psychology, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis, Person Centred and CBT) to create a customised approach which is compatible with your history, way-of-being, skill set and goals.
Does it seem like others are coping better, enjoying more successful lives or more fulfilling relationships? I'm here to help. Level 7-qualified, I work at depth- engaging with underlying patterns and processes- to support your journey of self-discovery, healing and personal growth. In practice since 2015, I have supported a diverse range of clients. I work with individuals, not issues per se, hence- whether we were undertaking short or longer-term therapy- I would focus upon engaging with you as a whole person; multifaceted, with a unique history and a distinct way-of-being.
0115 647 8311 View 0115 647 8311
Photo of Deborah Elizabeth Short, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Deborah Elizabeth Short
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Matlock DE4
My primary modality is Gestalt psychotherapy.
I believe that people are endlessly creative... Despite damaging childhoods, difficult life experiences, the most painful losses and challenges we face living in an increasingly complex world, we are all capable of turning our lives around for the better. With courage and the right kind of help, our natural inborn capacity for growth is brought to light. The process of making life better is just as worthwhile as the outcome. Somehow the whole process of confronting and solving the apparently insurmountable problems that bring us to therapy can also bring renewed meaning and poignancy into our lives.
My primary modality is Gestalt psychotherapy.
I believe that people are endlessly creative... Despite damaging childhoods, difficult life experiences, the most painful losses and challenges we face living in an increasingly complex world, we are all capable of turning our lives around for the better. With courage and the right kind of help, our natural inborn capacity for growth is brought to light. The process of making life better is just as worthwhile as the outcome. Somehow the whole process of confronting and solving the apparently insurmountable problems that bring us to therapy can also bring renewed meaning and poignancy into our lives.
01773 302042 View 01773 302042
Photo of Daniel Bains, Counsellor, MBACP
Daniel Bains
Counsellor, MBACP
My approach is relational and integrative, meaning I draw from different therapeutic methods—including Person-Centred Therapy, CBT, Gestalt, and Psychodynamic approaches—to tailor the work to your needs.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself. Perhaps you’re carrying past experiences that still affect you, struggling with self-doubt, or feeling like you don’t quite fit in. Maybe your emotions feel too big—or completely out of reach. You might be battling with intrusive thoughts, patterns of behaviour that don’t serve you, or a deep need for understanding and acceptance. You want to feel heard, valued, and understood. You crave a space where you can explore your emotions without fear of judgment.
My approach is relational and integrative, meaning I draw from different therapeutic methods—including Person-Centred Therapy, CBT, Gestalt, and Psychodynamic approaches—to tailor the work to your needs.
You might be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself. Perhaps you’re carrying past experiences that still affect you, struggling with self-doubt, or feeling like you don’t quite fit in. Maybe your emotions feel too big—or completely out of reach. You might be battling with intrusive thoughts, patterns of behaviour that don’t serve you, or a deep need for understanding and acceptance. You want to feel heard, valued, and understood. You crave a space where you can explore your emotions without fear of judgment.
01283 365106 View 01283 365106
Photo of Natalie Browne, Counsellor, MBACP
Natalie Browne
Counsellor, MBACP
Hinckley LE10
My counselling integrates Transactional Analysis, Gestalt and Person-centred theory and I offer various techniques that may be approached in a profound or creative way.
Hi, I'm Natalie of Firefly Counselling. Change is possible and often simple, but not always easy. To change we need to willingly embrace uncertainty and trust the process of transformation. My role as a counsellor is to support you as you identify, explore, and enact the changes you want to make in your life and I'm committed to walking alongside you as you travel a path that may feel difficult and unfamiliar – though hopefully exciting because with change comes hope and possibility. The therapeutic experience is a journey in which my role is to help you explore your surroundings and navigate new and perhaps daunting paths.
My counselling integrates Transactional Analysis, Gestalt and Person-centred theory and I offer various techniques that may be approached in a profound or creative way.
Hi, I'm Natalie of Firefly Counselling. Change is possible and often simple, but not always easy. To change we need to willingly embrace uncertainty and trust the process of transformation. My role as a counsellor is to support you as you identify, explore, and enact the changes you want to make in your life and I'm committed to walking alongside you as you travel a path that may feel difficult and unfamiliar – though hopefully exciting because with change comes hope and possibility. The therapeutic experience is a journey in which my role is to help you explore your surroundings and navigate new and perhaps daunting paths.
01455 241466 View 01455 241466
Photo of Oscar Trenchard, Counsellor, MBACP
Oscar Trenchard
Counsellor, MBACP
As a humanistic counsellor, I use the theories of Person Centred, Transactional Analysis and Gestalt Psychotherapies to guide you in exploring whatever is troubling you.
As a counsellor, I have experience working with teenagers, young adults and people of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and substance and behavioural addictions. I believe that counselling can be beneficial to anyone, but it is also a very individual experience and each person will enter counselling with different goals and find different ways in which they achieve those goals. My intention with every client is to build a supportive and non-judgemental relationship in which they can build an understanding of themselves and make informed and conscious decisions to benefit their lives.
As a humanistic counsellor, I use the theories of Person Centred, Transactional Analysis and Gestalt Psychotherapies to guide you in exploring whatever is troubling you.
As a counsellor, I have experience working with teenagers, young adults and people of all ages struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues and substance and behavioural addictions. I believe that counselling can be beneficial to anyone, but it is also a very individual experience and each person will enter counselling with different goals and find different ways in which they achieve those goals. My intention with every client is to build a supportive and non-judgemental relationship in which they can build an understanding of themselves and make informed and conscious decisions to benefit their lives.
0114 697 6144 View 0114 697 6144
Photo of Sarah Moran - Safe Space Matters, Counsellor, MBACP
Safe Space Matters
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I draw on the theoretical approaches of Transactional Analysis, Person Centred Counselling and Gestalt.
Perhaps you’re experiencing loss or sadness, are having struggles at work, in your personal life, or in your relationships. Maybe you have difficult situations from your past that get in the way of your happiness in the present. You have experienced trauma or abuse, feel shame, anxiety, or depression. Whatever has brought you to this point, you have found the strength to seek help and that is your first step to taking back control and beginning your personal journey towards healing. A safe space matters to us all, especially at times of turmoil and pain, and that is what you will find here when you need it the most.
I draw on the theoretical approaches of Transactional Analysis, Person Centred Counselling and Gestalt.
Perhaps you’re experiencing loss or sadness, are having struggles at work, in your personal life, or in your relationships. Maybe you have difficult situations from your past that get in the way of your happiness in the present. You have experienced trauma or abuse, feel shame, anxiety, or depression. Whatever has brought you to this point, you have found the strength to seek help and that is your first step to taking back control and beginning your personal journey towards healing. A safe space matters to us all, especially at times of turmoil and pain, and that is what you will find here when you need it the most.
01455 249039 View 01455 249039
Photo of Olena Tkachyk, Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Olena Tkachyk
Psychotherapist, MSc, GMBPsS
Online Only
Hello, I am a counselor and Gestalt therapist with an academic background in linguistics.
I invite you to come to consultations with me to address your concerns and develop coping skills for any challenges you may be facing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, overthinking, depression, eating disorder, trauma, codependency, identity or relationship issues, or seeking personal growth and self-discovery, I am here to help you reach your goals.
Hello, I am a counselor and Gestalt therapist with an academic background in linguistics.
I invite you to come to consultations with me to address your concerns and develop coping skills for any challenges you may be facing. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, overthinking, depression, eating disorder, trauma, codependency, identity or relationship issues, or seeking personal growth and self-discovery, I am here to help you reach your goals.
01777 801384 x44 View 01777 801384 x44
Photo of Joseph Archer, Psychotherapist, BACP
Joseph Archer
Psychotherapist, BACP
I work with a blend of mindfulness, Gestalt, Jungian Psychology, philosophy, literature and dream-work.
Hey now. And welcome. I'm Joe. An integrative therapist. BSc. Having trained at the Sherwood Institute. My wish here is to really connect with you. And find out your story. I feel that therapy should be natural. Keeping it real. Keeping it simple. Our relationship is at the core of the work. Hoping to help gain awareness, for a deeper enjoyment of life. In our sessions I aim to work in the here-and-now, forever curious, and fully open to the spontaneity of our connection. We move at your pace, exploring at relational depth. I bring humour and enthusiasm, calm and a light touch. I also come with a lot of tough, lived-experience.
I work with a blend of mindfulness, Gestalt, Jungian Psychology, philosophy, literature and dream-work.
Hey now. And welcome. I'm Joe. An integrative therapist. BSc. Having trained at the Sherwood Institute. My wish here is to really connect with you. And find out your story. I feel that therapy should be natural. Keeping it real. Keeping it simple. Our relationship is at the core of the work. Hoping to help gain awareness, for a deeper enjoyment of life. In our sessions I aim to work in the here-and-now, forever curious, and fully open to the spontaneity of our connection. We move at your pace, exploring at relational depth. I bring humour and enthusiasm, calm and a light touch. I also come with a lot of tough, lived-experience.
0115 647 4237 View 0115 647 4237
Photo of Brunhild Abrahams - Imbeko Counselling, Counsellor, MBACP
Imbeko Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
By applying an integrative approach; Psychodynamic, Person-Centred, Cogitative Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Transitional Analysis (TA), Gestalt etc.
I offer short term and long term therapy to individuals from different backgrounds & understand that if life ‘throws you curve balls’, it is sometimes difficult to stay in control of your emotions & deal with your daily activities.
By applying an integrative approach; Psychodynamic, Person-Centred, Cogitative Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Transitional Analysis (TA), Gestalt etc.
I offer short term and long term therapy to individuals from different backgrounds & understand that if life ‘throws you curve balls’, it is sometimes difficult to stay in control of your emotions & deal with your daily activities.
0116 326 1315 View 0116 326 1315
Photo of Diane Earl, Counsellor, MBACP
Diane Earl
Counsellor, MBACP
Serves Area
I have training in gestalt and psychodynamic counselling, with both individuals and groups.
We all struggle to make sense of experiences at times, for example, when our life is in transition as we are leaving home or taking on new caring responsibilities. As a counsellor I can offer the opportunity to talk in confidence. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years and have trained as a social worker as well as a counsellor. Social networks and our sense of connection, can contribute to our emotional resilience and ability to face life's challenges. I can help you find a broader perspective and your own way forward.
I have training in gestalt and psychodynamic counselling, with both individuals and groups.
We all struggle to make sense of experiences at times, for example, when our life is in transition as we are leaving home or taking on new caring responsibilities. As a counsellor I can offer the opportunity to talk in confidence. I have worked in mental health for over 20 years and have trained as a social worker as well as a counsellor. Social networks and our sense of connection, can contribute to our emotional resilience and ability to face life's challenges. I can help you find a broader perspective and your own way forward.
07480 540068 View 07480 540068
Photo of Sonja Beacham, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Sonja Beacham
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
Blending approaches from gestalt Psychotherapy, EMDR, CBT, NLP, Hypnosis, I offer you some practical ways to manage emotions and to identify the changes you want to make.
I provide  specialist EMDR, Psychotherapy and Psychotherapy sessions  to clients aged 18 upwards to help people overcome emotional difficulties caused by current life challenges or by past events. As an experienced therapist of over 30 years experience, my  personal life experience and training to date has shaped me to be  down to earth and forward thinking . I am passionate about my work and the long term benefits that can be gained by increasing awareness and developing creative solutions and new skills to apply to old problems.
Blending approaches from gestalt Psychotherapy, EMDR, CBT, NLP, Hypnosis, I offer you some practical ways to manage emotions and to identify the changes you want to make.
I provide  specialist EMDR, Psychotherapy and Psychotherapy sessions  to clients aged 18 upwards to help people overcome emotional difficulties caused by current life challenges or by past events. As an experienced therapist of over 30 years experience, my  personal life experience and training to date has shaped me to be  down to earth and forward thinking . I am passionate about my work and the long term benefits that can be gained by increasing awareness and developing creative solutions and new skills to apply to old problems.
0115 824 3915 View 0115 824 3915
Photo of Samantha Ropero, Counsellor, MBACP
Samantha Ropero
Counsellor, MBACP
Online Only
I work from a person centred base whilst assimilating Gestalt principles into my practise.
Welcome to my profile, my name is Sam. I have over 10 years experience working with a diverse range of clients in a variety of settings. I am a trainee supervisor accepting new supervisees. A key element of what I value in practice is creating a positive therapeutic relationship. I aim to create a supportive welcoming atmosphere that is free of judgement and sensitive to anything we may discuss. I have a specialism in trauma and abuse work. I currently hold a Masters Degree in Counselling and a BA Honours Degree in Counselling and Psychology. In 2024 I completed a Diploma in Supervision with expected qualification date of 2025.
I work from a person centred base whilst assimilating Gestalt principles into my practise.
Welcome to my profile, my name is Sam. I have over 10 years experience working with a diverse range of clients in a variety of settings. I am a trainee supervisor accepting new supervisees. A key element of what I value in practice is creating a positive therapeutic relationship. I aim to create a supportive welcoming atmosphere that is free of judgement and sensitive to anything we may discuss. I have a specialism in trauma and abuse work. I currently hold a Masters Degree in Counselling and a BA Honours Degree in Counselling and Psychology. In 2024 I completed a Diploma in Supervision with expected qualification date of 2025.
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Photo of Clare Shanahan - 3Thinking Therapies, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
3Thinking Therapies
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Lichfield WS13
My approach integrates Person-Centred Counselling, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt Therapy, Hypnotherapy, NLP, and EMDR, allowing me to tailor each session to you.
Personal Statement I’m Clare Shanahan, founder of 3Thinking Therapies, and I am deeply passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with a warm, professional, and highly personalised approach. With years of experience, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, supporting them through anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem challenges, addiction, and relationship difficulties. I believe therapy should be more than symptom management, it should be about uncovering the root causes of distress and empowering individuals to regain control of their lives.
My approach integrates Person-Centred Counselling, Transactional Analysis, Gestalt Therapy, Hypnotherapy, NLP, and EMDR, allowing me to tailor each session to you.
Personal Statement I’m Clare Shanahan, founder of 3Thinking Therapies, and I am deeply passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with a warm, professional, and highly personalised approach. With years of experience, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, supporting them through anxiety, trauma, depression, self-esteem challenges, addiction, and relationship difficulties. I believe therapy should be more than symptom management, it should be about uncovering the root causes of distress and empowering individuals to regain control of their lives.
01283 243987 View 01283 243987
Photo of Hannah Hall - Authentic Counselling & Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Authentic Counselling & Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
As an Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist your treatment plan will be specific to you, the positive relationship we build is key, and I use a blend of developmental theory from attachment, poly-vagal, transactional analysis and Gestalt therapy.
Hi! I'm Hannah. Counselling is a bespoke experience, unique to the individual and it's about hope, not being alone, growth, "permission" to be you, reframing thoughts, and it's empowering, & affirming. Come to learn coping skills, get to know yourself, heal trauma, receive empathy, meet needs, and grow in enjoying life despite the challenges. I am an experienced psychotherapist supporting people with symptoms of depression, childhood issues, PTSD, chronic stress & burnout. I am a relational developmental therapist, & I work compassionately, authentically & practically with coping with challenging thoughts & feelings.
As an Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist your treatment plan will be specific to you, the positive relationship we build is key, and I use a blend of developmental theory from attachment, poly-vagal, transactional analysis and Gestalt therapy.
Hi! I'm Hannah. Counselling is a bespoke experience, unique to the individual and it's about hope, not being alone, growth, "permission" to be you, reframing thoughts, and it's empowering, & affirming. Come to learn coping skills, get to know yourself, heal trauma, receive empathy, meet needs, and grow in enjoying life despite the challenges. I am an experienced psychotherapist supporting people with symptoms of depression, childhood issues, PTSD, chronic stress & burnout. I am a relational developmental therapist, & I work compassionately, authentically & practically with coping with challenging thoughts & feelings.
0116 493 0835 View 0116 493 0835
Gestalt Counsellors

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 behaviour, 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.