Gestalt Counselling in Manchester

Photo of Lexi Chapman, Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
Lexi Chapman
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MUKCP
My core approach is Transactional analysis integrated with person centred therapy, CBT and Gestalt therapy.
I have a specialist knowledge in working with trauma, PTSD, sexual violence, ADHD, eating disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, self esteem, LGBTQ, relationship difficulties, bereavement and OCD. I have a wealth of experience in working with people individually & have developed and facilitated support groups.
My core approach is Transactional analysis integrated with person centred therapy, CBT and Gestalt therapy.
I have a specialist knowledge in working with trauma, PTSD, sexual violence, ADHD, eating disorders, stress, anxiety, depression, addictions, self esteem, LGBTQ, relationship difficulties, bereavement and OCD. I have a wealth of experience in working with people individually & have developed and facilitated support groups.
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Photo of Kam Laing - True Living Therapies
True Living Therapies
Verified Verified
If you're tired of battling stress, overwhelm, anxiety or if you're frustrated because you can't seem to be as productive or confident as you want, or need, to be then hypnotherapy can work amazingly well for you. Your subconscious is in the driving seat and while it tries to help you feel safe and survive, it can also hinder you too. Often we aren't entirely aware, at a conscious level, why we're struggling or stuck in self-sabotaging behaviour patterns. Hypnotherapy is able to reach your subconscious and work with it to correct course, allowing you to achieve what you want.
If you're tired of battling stress, overwhelm, anxiety or if you're frustrated because you can't seem to be as productive or confident as you want, or need, to be then hypnotherapy can work amazingly well for you. Your subconscious is in the driving seat and while it tries to help you feel safe and survive, it can also hinder you too. Often we aren't entirely aware, at a conscious level, why we're struggling or stuck in self-sabotaging behaviour patterns. Hypnotherapy is able to reach your subconscious and work with it to correct course, allowing you to achieve what you want.
0161 509 4175 View 0161 509 4175
Photo of Anna Daly, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Anna Daly
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Finding the right therapist for you is crucial in order for therapy to be effective and to help you make lasting changes. I offer a free initial assessment. Affordable prices. I work in a broad way. I believe humour is essential in therapy & is often the thing that keeps us going through the darkness. I provide a safe space, in a non-judgemental environment, where people have the freedom to explore themselves. I am warm and I work at my client's pace in a gentle manner. I am an integrative counsellor and use a variety of theoretical models. This collaborative approach enables me to work in a way that suits each individual client.
Finding the right therapist for you is crucial in order for therapy to be effective and to help you make lasting changes. I offer a free initial assessment. Affordable prices. I work in a broad way. I believe humour is essential in therapy & is often the thing that keeps us going through the darkness. I provide a safe space, in a non-judgemental environment, where people have the freedom to explore themselves. I am warm and I work at my client's pace in a gentle manner. I am an integrative counsellor and use a variety of theoretical models. This collaborative approach enables me to work in a way that suits each individual client.
0161 524 9781 View 0161 524 9781
Photo of Ciara Cummings - Ciara Cummings Counselling , Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Ciara Cummings Counselling
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
I’m Ciara (MSc, MBACP), a friendly, down-to-earth psychotherapist who works with children, teens, students and young adults. If you’ve been scrolling for a while, unsure where to start, I get it. Looking for the right therapist can feel overwhelming when you’re already carrying so much. In our sessions there’s no pressure to have everything figured out. Therapy is a place where you don’t have to pretend or filter what you say. I’ll meet you where you are and support you in making sense of your experiences. We’ll go at your pace, exploring what feels important to you and find ways to better understand and manage your emotions.
I’m Ciara (MSc, MBACP), a friendly, down-to-earth psychotherapist who works with children, teens, students and young adults. If you’ve been scrolling for a while, unsure where to start, I get it. Looking for the right therapist can feel overwhelming when you’re already carrying so much. In our sessions there’s no pressure to have everything figured out. Therapy is a place where you don’t have to pretend or filter what you say. I’ll meet you where you are and support you in making sense of your experiences. We’ll go at your pace, exploring what feels important to you and find ways to better understand and manage your emotions.
01406 431463 View 01406 431463
Photo of Paul Andrew Guy - PG Psychotherapy, Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
PG Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
1 Endorsed
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, people pleasing, or stuck in a place that leads you to being frustrated or anxious in your life? Maybe it is starting to impact on those closest to you and you are now looking for a different experience. As a fully qualified and highly experienced therapist, I work one-to-one with adults on a whole range of different presenting issues that can include anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship issues, and unhelpful patterns of behaviour. People access therapy when they find that they are stuck not knowing what to do next, or how to get out of repetitive and destructive situations. I can help.
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, people pleasing, or stuck in a place that leads you to being frustrated or anxious in your life? Maybe it is starting to impact on those closest to you and you are now looking for a different experience. As a fully qualified and highly experienced therapist, I work one-to-one with adults on a whole range of different presenting issues that can include anxiety, low mood, stress, relationship issues, and unhelpful patterns of behaviour. People access therapy when they find that they are stuck not knowing what to do next, or how to get out of repetitive and destructive situations. I can help.
0161 694 6315 View 0161 694 6315
Photo of Nigel Magowan, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Nigel Magowan
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
1 Endorsed
I am an experienced psychotherapist and have been in full-time private practice in Manchester since 2002. I use a flexible integrative approach and offer both long-term psychotherapy and counselling, as well as short-term therapies. I integrate psychotherapy with CBT, EMDR, Somatic Therapies, IFS, Focusing, DBT Skills, DBR, NLP and life coaching. I have experience of working with a wide range of issues including anxiety, PTSD, Complex PTSD, bereavement, BPD, depression, stress, abuse, generalised anxiety, OCD, public speaking, low self-esteem, relationship issues, shame, IBS and pain management. I am BACP and UKCP registered.
I am an experienced psychotherapist and have been in full-time private practice in Manchester since 2002. I use a flexible integrative approach and offer both long-term psychotherapy and counselling, as well as short-term therapies. I integrate psychotherapy with CBT, EMDR, Somatic Therapies, IFS, Focusing, DBT Skills, DBR, NLP and life coaching. I have experience of working with a wide range of issues including anxiety, PTSD, Complex PTSD, bereavement, BPD, depression, stress, abuse, generalised anxiety, OCD, public speaking, low self-esteem, relationship issues, shame, IBS and pain management. I am BACP and UKCP registered.
0161 696 3016 View 0161 696 3016
Photo of Richard Higgs - Richard Higgs Therapy, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Richard Higgs Therapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
My priority is to provide a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential space for you to just ‘be’ without any expectation, so you can explore any issues or struggles that are impacting your life. You may know what these struggles are, or you may not have the words or an understanding of what is going on for you. And that is okay. You may come to therapy with a set idea of what you want to explore, or you may come to therapy with just a hunch that something isn’t right. Therapy isn’t linear but I’ll be transparent in our work together and guide you in what can be difficult but ultimately enlightening work.
My priority is to provide a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential space for you to just ‘be’ without any expectation, so you can explore any issues or struggles that are impacting your life. You may know what these struggles are, or you may not have the words or an understanding of what is going on for you. And that is okay. You may come to therapy with a set idea of what you want to explore, or you may come to therapy with just a hunch that something isn’t right. Therapy isn’t linear but I’ll be transparent in our work together and guide you in what can be difficult but ultimately enlightening work.
01707 240914 View 01707 240914
Photo of Mark Owen, Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Mark Owen
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
My name is Mark Owen and I am a BACP and COSRT registered Counsellor with a degree in Marriage and Family therapy and a Postgraduate Diploma in Integrative Psychotherapy. Since 2012 I have worked in a wide variety of therapeutic settings both private care and within the NHS including, general mental health services, Eating Disorders Clinic, Bereavement Counselling and a Sexual Health Clinic. There are many models of therapy and everyone responds differently to the various methods. Using an Integrative Model of therapy, which means I use a range of different models, allows me to design a more tailor made plan for you.
My name is Mark Owen and I am a BACP and COSRT registered Counsellor with a degree in Marriage and Family therapy and a Postgraduate Diploma in Integrative Psychotherapy. Since 2012 I have worked in a wide variety of therapeutic settings both private care and within the NHS including, general mental health services, Eating Disorders Clinic, Bereavement Counselling and a Sexual Health Clinic. There are many models of therapy and everyone responds differently to the various methods. Using an Integrative Model of therapy, which means I use a range of different models, allows me to design a more tailor made plan for you.
0161 694 6567 View 0161 694 6567
Photo of Dr Lorna Robinson, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Lorna Robinson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Hello, my name is Lorna and I'm here to help. Do you have a problem that you are finding hard to resolve or maybe feeling down, but unsure what the problem is? Either way I am here to support and help you to make sense of your difficulties. I am gentle in nature, have much empathy and I am completely non- judgemental. I will create a warm, safe space enabling you to feel comfortable, allowing us to explore your difficulties and find solutions together.
Hello, my name is Lorna and I'm here to help. Do you have a problem that you are finding hard to resolve or maybe feeling down, but unsure what the problem is? Either way I am here to support and help you to make sense of your difficulties. I am gentle in nature, have much empathy and I am completely non- judgemental. I will create a warm, safe space enabling you to feel comfortable, allowing us to explore your difficulties and find solutions together.
01707 959162 View 01707 959162
Photo of Craig Budzik, Counsellor, MBACP
Craig Budzik
Counsellor, MBACP
1 Endorsed
Hi, I’m Craig. I am an integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist, with experience of using Yoga for anxiety and depression, based in Manchester. I care about helping people navigate those sticky and uncomfortable moments in life. For most of my adult life, I’ve felt a pull towards the helping professions. This pull led me to the realms of counselling, psychotherapy and yoga. I’ve found the tools and skills from these realms transformative in my own development and growth, and in others. I take an integrative approach, bringing concepts, skills and techniques from the psychotherapeutic, yogic and spiritual spheres.
Hi, I’m Craig. I am an integrative Counsellor and Psychotherapist, with experience of using Yoga for anxiety and depression, based in Manchester. I care about helping people navigate those sticky and uncomfortable moments in life. For most of my adult life, I’ve felt a pull towards the helping professions. This pull led me to the realms of counselling, psychotherapy and yoga. I’ve found the tools and skills from these realms transformative in my own development and growth, and in others. I take an integrative approach, bringing concepts, skills and techniques from the psychotherapeutic, yogic and spiritual spheres.
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Photo of Sj Paynter - Eight Art Therapy , Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Eight Art Therapy
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Online Only
I work with individuals navigating identity, self-expression, and past trauma. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, affirming space where you can explore your emotions and experiences, free from judgment. I believe in the power of creativity to heal and empower, helping you reconnect with yourself and build the confidence to live authentically. Whether you're seeking healing from past wounds or simply a space to explore who you are, I'm here to support you on your journey toward self-acceptance and growth. My aim is to provide a contained, thoughtful therapeutic space where meaningful and lasting change can unfold at your pace.
I work with individuals navigating identity, self-expression, and past trauma. My approach is rooted in creating a safe, affirming space where you can explore your emotions and experiences, free from judgment. I believe in the power of creativity to heal and empower, helping you reconnect with yourself and build the confidence to live authentically. Whether you're seeking healing from past wounds or simply a space to explore who you are, I'm here to support you on your journey toward self-acceptance and growth. My aim is to provide a contained, thoughtful therapeutic space where meaningful and lasting change can unfold at your pace.
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Photo of Genevieve Collister Brown, Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Genevieve Collister Brown
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
My approach integrates psychosexual, relational, existential, Gestalt and transactional analysis therapies.
I'm a sex and relationship therapist with over 5 years experience in empowering people through sex education. I work with a wide range of issues including understanding your gender, sexuality and identities (inc. LGBTQIA+), finding the right relationship style for you (non-monogamy, monogamy, polyamory etc), negotiating safer BDSM and kink practices, exploring consent, issues with sexual functioning (genital pain, erection issues, inability to orgasm etc), navigating relationship conflicts and improving sexual intimacy. I also work with people who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse and work in a trauma-informed way.
My approach integrates psychosexual, relational, existential, Gestalt and transactional analysis therapies.
I'm a sex and relationship therapist with over 5 years experience in empowering people through sex education. I work with a wide range of issues including understanding your gender, sexuality and identities (inc. LGBTQIA+), finding the right relationship style for you (non-monogamy, monogamy, polyamory etc), negotiating safer BDSM and kink practices, exploring consent, issues with sexual functioning (genital pain, erection issues, inability to orgasm etc), navigating relationship conflicts and improving sexual intimacy. I also work with people who have experienced sexual trauma and abuse and work in a trauma-informed way.
0161 524 1594 View 0161 524 1594
Photo of Becky Blacka, Counsellor, BACP
Becky Blacka
Counsellor, BACP
In 2020, I began in depth training in Gestalt psychotherapy which I hope to complete in 2025.
We accumulate ways of being in the world that supported us in the past but, perhaps, don’t serve us now. This may be held in our bodies, thoughts, emotions, and the way that we relate to ourself and others. Therapy is a process of exploring this together with a balance of safety and challenge. I have experienced personally and with others how this can facilitate deepening self awareness, processing old wounds, and living more authentically. I am warm and openminded, and I am committed to being honest because I believe that it is paramount to enabling trust to develop. I meet you as my genuine self, rather than in ‘role’.
In 2020, I began in depth training in Gestalt psychotherapy which I hope to complete in 2025.
We accumulate ways of being in the world that supported us in the past but, perhaps, don’t serve us now. This may be held in our bodies, thoughts, emotions, and the way that we relate to ourself and others. Therapy is a process of exploring this together with a balance of safety and challenge. I have experienced personally and with others how this can facilitate deepening self awareness, processing old wounds, and living more authentically. I am warm and openminded, and I am committed to being honest because I believe that it is paramount to enabling trust to develop. I meet you as my genuine self, rather than in ‘role’.
0161 850 9456 View 0161 850 9456
Photo of Diane Judith Adderley, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Diane Judith Adderley
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
I am a qualified psychotherapist, life coach, trainer and supervisor, with over 25 years experience in private practice. I work with adults who may be encountering life's stressors to a greater-than-usual degree or may be struggling to find their way forward in a diverse range of circumstances. These may be from personal or professional sources but usually involve our own, perhaps not very helpful, habitual ways of dealing with such difficulties - we all can revert to old habits in times of trouble. I am available to do both short- and long-term work according to need.
I am a qualified psychotherapist, life coach, trainer and supervisor, with over 25 years experience in private practice. I work with adults who may be encountering life's stressors to a greater-than-usual degree or may be struggling to find their way forward in a diverse range of circumstances. These may be from personal or professional sources but usually involve our own, perhaps not very helpful, habitual ways of dealing with such difficulties - we all can revert to old habits in times of trouble. I am available to do both short- and long-term work according to need.
01890 230083 View 01890 230083
Photo of Holly Wright, Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Holly Wright
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
I am a qualified Psychotherapist and Hypnotherapist with over 15 years experience. I specialise in working with Addiction, Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I am a fellow of the National Society of Talking Therapies and registered with the United Kingdom Council of Psychotherapy (UKCP). I trained at the highest accredited training provider for Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy in the country. I offer a friendly and confidential service. I believe strongly that we all have a capacity to achieve our goals and are able to overcome issues and obstacles that have arisen recently or been with us since childhood.
I am a qualified Psychotherapist and Hypnotherapist with over 15 years experience. I specialise in working with Addiction, Trauma, Depression and Anxiety. I am a fellow of the National Society of Talking Therapies and registered with the United Kingdom Council of Psychotherapy (UKCP). I trained at the highest accredited training provider for Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy in the country. I offer a friendly and confidential service. I believe strongly that we all have a capacity to achieve our goals and are able to overcome issues and obstacles that have arisen recently or been with us since childhood.
0161 524 3396 View 0161 524 3396
Dr Ayiesha Malik
Verified Verified
Online Only
My ideal clients are young adults or couples who are struggling with the effects of trauma from their upbringing, or facing emotional, relational, or physical challenges such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, or stress. They may also be seeking pre-marital or couples coaching. They have: Difficulty regulating emotions and responding to stress Feeling “stuck” or unproductive in life, work, or relationships Relationship challenges, communication struggles, or pre-marital uncertainty Chronic pain or other health issues affecting daily functioning Low self-compassion, self-validation, or unresolved childhood trauma
My ideal clients are young adults or couples who are struggling with the effects of trauma from their upbringing, or facing emotional, relational, or physical challenges such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, or stress. They may also be seeking pre-marital or couples coaching. They have: Difficulty regulating emotions and responding to stress Feeling “stuck” or unproductive in life, work, or relationships Relationship challenges, communication struggles, or pre-marital uncertainty Chronic pain or other health issues affecting daily functioning Low self-compassion, self-validation, or unresolved childhood trauma
0161 524 2378 View 0161 524 2378
Photo of Gareth Paul, Counsellor, MBACP
Gareth Paul
Counsellor, MBACP
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Gareth from Purple Rain Counselling. I am an integrative counsellor providing support for people with any kind of mental health issue. I offer specialist help for depression, anxiety, addiction, bereavement and supporting those who have lost loved ones to suicide. By listening to you, we will develop our sessions together to help you achieve your desired goals and give you the coping skills you need.
Hi, I'm Gareth from Purple Rain Counselling. I am an integrative counsellor providing support for people with any kind of mental health issue. I offer specialist help for depression, anxiety, addiction, bereavement and supporting those who have lost loved ones to suicide. By listening to you, we will develop our sessions together to help you achieve your desired goals and give you the coping skills you need.
0161 524 1485 View 0161 524 1485
Photo of Michael Lal, Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Michael Lal
Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Alongside this, I may incorporate positive psychology exercises, CBT or metacognitive techniques, and Gestalt chair work where appropriate and agreed together.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns that are difficult to manage alone. Stress, low mood, self-doubt, and relationship difficulties can leave you feeling disconnected from yourself or unsure how to move forward. For many men, opening up can feel especially difficult due to pressures to “man up” or hide emotions. As someone who has personally experienced anxiety and depression, I understand how isolating this can feel. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly and begin making meaningful changes at your own pace.
Alongside this, I may incorporate positive psychology exercises, CBT or metacognitive techniques, and Gestalt chair work where appropriate and agreed together.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns that are difficult to manage alone. Stress, low mood, self-doubt, and relationship difficulties can leave you feeling disconnected from yourself or unsure how to move forward. For many men, opening up can feel especially difficult due to pressures to “man up” or hide emotions. As someone who has personally experienced anxiety and depression, I understand how isolating this can feel. I offer a warm, supportive, and non-judgemental space where you can talk openly and begin making meaningful changes at your own pace.
0161 524 9478 View 0161 524 9478
Photo of Georgina McKavanagh, Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Georgina McKavanagh
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Online Only
I have been trained in transactional analysis, gestalt, and person centred.
If you’ve spent most of your life holding it together for everyone else, it can be hard to know what you actually need. I work with thoughtful, high-functioning women who feel overwhelmed, stuck in relationship patterns, or disconnected from themselves. Together we explore where these patterns began and how to start changing them.
I have been trained in transactional analysis, gestalt, and person centred.
If you’ve spent most of your life holding it together for everyone else, it can be hard to know what you actually need. I work with thoughtful, high-functioning women who feel overwhelmed, stuck in relationship patterns, or disconnected from themselves. Together we explore where these patterns began and how to start changing them.
01942 925808 View 01942 925808
Photo of Chris Hemmings, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Chris Hemmings
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Online Only
If you’re reading this, it probably means you’re thinking about starting therapy – maybe for the first time. Fair play for making it here. I know it won’t have been easy. Sadly, most guys don’t make it this far. But you did – so well done. I specialise in working with men who feel stuck, ashamed or emotionally flat. You might be functioning well enough, but you know there’s something deeper… and maybe haven’t ever spoken about. Whether it’s a long-standing issue or something that’s come up recently – addiction, anger, burnout, relationships, identity, porn or loss – we work together to understand what’s really going on for you.
If you’re reading this, it probably means you’re thinking about starting therapy – maybe for the first time. Fair play for making it here. I know it won’t have been easy. Sadly, most guys don’t make it this far. But you did – so well done. I specialise in working with men who feel stuck, ashamed or emotionally flat. You might be functioning well enough, but you know there’s something deeper… and maybe haven’t ever spoken about. Whether it’s a long-standing issue or something that’s come up recently – addiction, anger, burnout, relationships, identity, porn or loss – we work together to understand what’s really going on for you.
020 4538 4704 View 020 4538 4704

See more therapy options for Manchester

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.