Photo of Jon King - Addiction Specialist Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Jon King - Addiction Specialist Psychotherapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV6
I am an integrative therapist with gestalt as my core approach, whilst incorporating attachment theory and psychodynamic perspectives.
I am a fully qualified and experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with experience working within the NHS, private and charitable sectors. I offer a safe and confidential space in Birmingham and Coventry where clients are able to explore themselves free from judgement. I have extensive experience working within the field of addiction and have also been working within my own private practice for a number of years where i have enjoyed working with clients that present with a variety of different issues such as anxiety, relationship issues, sex issues, anger issues, personality disorders and also bereavement.
I am an integrative therapist with gestalt as my core approach, whilst incorporating attachment theory and psychodynamic perspectives.
I am a fully qualified and experienced counsellor and psychotherapist with experience working within the NHS, private and charitable sectors. I offer a safe and confidential space in Birmingham and Coventry where clients are able to explore themselves free from judgement. I have extensive experience working within the field of addiction and have also been working within my own private practice for a number of years where i have enjoyed working with clients that present with a variety of different issues such as anxiety, relationship issues, sex issues, anger issues, personality disorders and also bereavement.
0121 285 8149 View 0121 285 8149
Photo of Luke Webster, MBACP, Counsellor
Luke Webster
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Coventry CV1
I understand that what has happened to you and what you are experiencing is challenging and comes with difficult thoughts and feelings. I can offer a safe place where you can explore those thoughts and feelings without judgment or pressure. Whether you are looking to understand your self more, be understood or to find out a path to feel happier and think differently, I can help. I work with many different challenges including anxiety, depression, stress and many more.
I understand that what has happened to you and what you are experiencing is challenging and comes with difficult thoughts and feelings. I can offer a safe place where you can explore those thoughts and feelings without judgment or pressure. Whether you are looking to understand your self more, be understood or to find out a path to feel happier and think differently, I can help. I work with many different challenges including anxiety, depression, stress and many more.
024 7693 2045 View 024 7693 2045

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Galani - Maria Galani Counselling Services Limited, MSc, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Maria Galani Counselling Services Limited
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leamington Spa CV32
My name is Maria and I am a registered MBACP psychotherapist. I am member of the Counselling Psychology Division of the British Psychological Society, and working towards the completion of the Doctorate in Counselling Psychology. As an existential-integrative psychotherapist, I believe in the ability of individuals to heal and better their lives, transforming difficulties, trauma, and anxiety into personal insight.
My name is Maria and I am a registered MBACP psychotherapist. I am member of the Counselling Psychology Division of the British Psychological Society, and working towards the completion of the Doctorate in Counselling Psychology. As an existential-integrative psychotherapist, I believe in the ability of individuals to heal and better their lives, transforming difficulties, trauma, and anxiety into personal insight.
0116 502 3319 View 0116 502 3319
Photo of Nicky Adams - Bright Futures Psychotherapy, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Bright Futures Psychotherapy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leamington Spa CV31
Specialising in working with young people aged 11-18 years. Counselling Service for Young People, Adults and Couples in Stratford Upon Avon and Leamington Spa. Nicky Adams MBACP, BA(Hons), MNCS (Acc). Counsellor / Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. I am a fully qualified, registered and insured Counsellor. DBS checked. If life is a struggle right now, get in touch and we can work together to make life happier.. I am an integrative therapist, working in a solution / client centred way using a range of approaches including CBT and Mindfulness to help relieve your emotional distress.
Specialising in working with young people aged 11-18 years. Counselling Service for Young People, Adults and Couples in Stratford Upon Avon and Leamington Spa. Nicky Adams MBACP, BA(Hons), MNCS (Acc). Counsellor / Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor. I am a fully qualified, registered and insured Counsellor. DBS checked. If life is a struggle right now, get in touch and we can work together to make life happier.. I am an integrative therapist, working in a solution / client centred way using a range of approaches including CBT and Mindfulness to help relieve your emotional distress.
01789 331117 View 01789 331117

Online Therapists

Photo of Liselle Van Zyl, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Liselle Van Zyl
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Richmond TW10
Walking and talking therapy. I am currently offering short-term walking and talking therapy in Richmond Park/Terrace Gardens and River walk.I specialise in Gestalt psychotherapy, having trained at the Metanoia Institute in London. My approach is also enriched by transpersonal, eco-psychology, and archetypal psychology. In addition I have pursued advance training in trauma-focused therapies, including Brainspotting and CRM. I work with individuals and couples, supporting them through a variety of challenges such as anxiety and depression, trauma, bereavement, adoption, relationship issues, loss, life transitions, and self-growth.
Walking and talking therapy. I am currently offering short-term walking and talking therapy in Richmond Park/Terrace Gardens and River walk.I specialise in Gestalt psychotherapy, having trained at the Metanoia Institute in London. My approach is also enriched by transpersonal, eco-psychology, and archetypal psychology. In addition I have pursued advance training in trauma-focused therapies, including Brainspotting and CRM. I work with individuals and couples, supporting them through a variety of challenges such as anxiety and depression, trauma, bereavement, adoption, relationship issues, loss, life transitions, and self-growth.
07475 660023 View 07475 660023
Photo of Antonia Ballantyne, MSc, MBACP Accred, Psychotherapist
Antonia Ballantyne
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
London EC2R
I draw on various therapeutic approaches integrating relational, psychodynamic and humanistic therapy, which includes person-centred, gestalt and transactional-analysis.
We all experience times of uncertainty, loss and change and I believe we all benefit from sharing our burdens with someone else, in a safe and non-judgemental way. I understand seeking psychological support can feel scary but my approach is open, warm and accepting. I work collaboratively with people, treating all information in the strictest confidence. My aim is to empower each person to develop their own skills, building resilience to manage difficulties, in the present and going forward.
I draw on various therapeutic approaches integrating relational, psychodynamic and humanistic therapy, which includes person-centred, gestalt and transactional-analysis.
We all experience times of uncertainty, loss and change and I believe we all benefit from sharing our burdens with someone else, in a safe and non-judgemental way. I understand seeking psychological support can feel scary but my approach is open, warm and accepting. I work collaboratively with people, treating all information in the strictest confidence. My aim is to empower each person to develop their own skills, building resilience to manage difficulties, in the present and going forward.
020 8138 8552 View 020 8138 8552
Photo of Jonathan Wilkes, MBACP, Counsellor
Jonathan Wilkes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol BS1
The 'transpersonal' approach informs much of my work, and I use principles and techniques from; CBT, Existential Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, breathing and somatic awareness, object relations theory, early childhood dynamics as well as Vedic astrology.
I’m a qualified Psychosynthesis counsellor. Psychosynthesis is a broad and inclusive system which has many different techniques and approaches that can be tailored to you and your needs, given that you are unique! I emphasize warmth, kindness, sensitivity and empathy in my approach. I work with people who are experiencing; depression, anxiety, anger and rage, loss and grief, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, feelings of despair and childhood abuse and trauma. I work with people to achieve real, concrete, lasting change in their lives - and have received plenty of positive feedback confirming this!
The 'transpersonal' approach informs much of my work, and I use principles and techniques from; CBT, Existential Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, breathing and somatic awareness, object relations theory, early childhood dynamics as well as Vedic astrology.
I’m a qualified Psychosynthesis counsellor. Psychosynthesis is a broad and inclusive system which has many different techniques and approaches that can be tailored to you and your needs, given that you are unique! I emphasize warmth, kindness, sensitivity and empathy in my approach. I work with people who are experiencing; depression, anxiety, anger and rage, loss and grief, relationship issues, self-esteem issues, feelings of despair and childhood abuse and trauma. I work with people to achieve real, concrete, lasting change in their lives - and have received plenty of positive feedback confirming this!
0117 450 2960 View 0117 450 2960
Photo of Lucas Voclere - Lucas Voclere Counselling & Psychotherapy (Online)
Lucas Voclere Counselling & Psychotherapy (Online)
Verified Verified
London SE1  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Integrating approaches/tools from methods such as Person Centred, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis and Psychodynamic, I will assist you with developing healthy relationships with yourself and others, and make the best choices to move forward with your life.
Are you struggling with your life, self-esteem or relationships? To understand who you are, your needs, how to cope & improve your life? Do you need an existential therapy balancing survival & aliveness dedicated to help you embrace & empower your unique diversity (Gender, Sexual, Cultural... - Polyamory/ENM/CNM - Neurodiversity - Intersectionality...)? Then you could benefit from the humanistic & integrative therapy I offer with my passion for diversity, belonging, purpose, relationships & personal development. I offer a holding safe space with no judgments and the acceptance of everything you are, have lived & want to achieve.
Integrating approaches/tools from methods such as Person Centred, Gestalt, Transactional Analysis and Psychodynamic, I will assist you with developing healthy relationships with yourself and others, and make the best choices to move forward with your life.
Are you struggling with your life, self-esteem or relationships? To understand who you are, your needs, how to cope & improve your life? Do you need an existential therapy balancing survival & aliveness dedicated to help you embrace & empower your unique diversity (Gender, Sexual, Cultural... - Polyamory/ENM/CNM - Neurodiversity - Intersectionality...)? Then you could benefit from the humanistic & integrative therapy I offer with my passion for diversity, belonging, purpose, relationships & personal development. I offer a holding safe space with no judgments and the acceptance of everything you are, have lived & want to achieve.
0117 456 2963 x44 View 0117 456 2963 x44
Photo of Lindsey Tull, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Lindsey Tull
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Redhill RH1
As a gestalt therapist I trust that deep down we all hold the answers to our own personal conflicts and dilemmas, and together we can find yours.
I work with people who are struggling with different life situations such as addictive behaviours, fertility concerns, alcoholism, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, miscarriage and bereavement and many more. I help you to empower and resource yourself so that change feels possible. I am here to listen and encourage you to become more attuned to your inner needs, providing you with greater freedom of choice and creativity. I am passionate about providing a safe space where you feel comfortable and heard.
As a gestalt therapist I trust that deep down we all hold the answers to our own personal conflicts and dilemmas, and together we can find yours.
I work with people who are struggling with different life situations such as addictive behaviours, fertility concerns, alcoholism, chronic illness, depression, anxiety, miscarriage and bereavement and many more. I help you to empower and resource yourself so that change feels possible. I am here to listen and encourage you to become more attuned to your inner needs, providing you with greater freedom of choice and creativity. I am passionate about providing a safe space where you feel comfortable and heard.
01737 949539 View 01737 949539
Photo of Konstantina Panoutsopoulou, MSc, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Konstantina Panoutsopoulou
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London N22
I am a qualified counsellor and Gestalt psychotherapist, registered with UKCP. I have experience working with clients from different backgrounds and with a variety of presenting issues in a social care setting, in private practice and for counselling charities. I offer short term and long term- open ended therapy. In my practice as a Gestalt Psychotherapist I am aspiring to engage in the therapeutic relationship with sensitivity, authenticity, an embodied approach and with the intention to be fully present and relational with the people I work with. I offer a safe, warm, compassionate and confidential space to help you explore your feelings, thoughts and relationships with your self and others; make sense of any difficulties you may be experiencing e.g. feeling stuck in ways of being and behaving that no longer work for you, painful events in the present, distressing memories from the past or worries about the future. I will accompany you throughout a journey of awareness, growth and change.
I am a qualified counsellor and Gestalt psychotherapist, registered with UKCP. I have experience working with clients from different backgrounds and with a variety of presenting issues in a social care setting, in private practice and for counselling charities. I offer short term and long term- open ended therapy. In my practice as a Gestalt Psychotherapist I am aspiring to engage in the therapeutic relationship with sensitivity, authenticity, an embodied approach and with the intention to be fully present and relational with the people I work with. I offer a safe, warm, compassionate and confidential space to help you explore your feelings, thoughts and relationships with your self and others; make sense of any difficulties you may be experiencing e.g. feeling stuck in ways of being and behaving that no longer work for you, painful events in the present, distressing memories from the past or worries about the future. I will accompany you throughout a journey of awareness, growth and change.
07449 829963 View 07449 829963
Photo of Haulah Zacharia, MNCPS Acc., Counsellor
Haulah Zacharia
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N14  (Online Only)
I am trained in several therapeutic approaches (CBT, Gestalt, Attachment, Person-centred, Trauma and TA) and I have a particular experience working with those affected by significant life changes, bereavement, miscarriage, fertility issues or menopause.
Hello! I understand that having personal therapy and selecting a counsellor can feel overwhelming, especially during what may already be a challenging period for you. With that in mind, I offer a confidential, non-judgemental, and warm space where you can bring whatever feelings, thoughts, behaviours or circumstances may be causing you concerns. In our meetings, we might talk about what's happening now or about past experiences to help us understand how best to address your concerns.
I am trained in several therapeutic approaches (CBT, Gestalt, Attachment, Person-centred, Trauma and TA) and I have a particular experience working with those affected by significant life changes, bereavement, miscarriage, fertility issues or menopause.
Hello! I understand that having personal therapy and selecting a counsellor can feel overwhelming, especially during what may already be a challenging period for you. With that in mind, I offer a confidential, non-judgemental, and warm space where you can bring whatever feelings, thoughts, behaviours or circumstances may be causing you concerns. In our meetings, we might talk about what's happening now or about past experiences to help us understand how best to address your concerns.
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Photo of Shahanara Begum, MBACP, Counsellor
Shahanara Begum
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ilford IG3
My foundation is in person-centred therapy, however, I draw on my knowledge and skills from other approaches (mainly Gestalt and CBT) to suit my client's needs.
Are you someone who is feeling stuck or alone, struggling with depression or anxiety? Sometimes we go through low points in life and need some support to get through it. I offer a non-judgemental and a confidential space for all my clients. I work with my clients to heal from traumatic/painful experiences. I help clients to learn to value themselves, increase their self-worth and being their authentic selves. Whether your goal is to overcome depression/anxiety, or feel like you've lost direction in life, I will endeavour to assist you to reach your goal. I am in my late 40's and have also been through my own healing journey.
My foundation is in person-centred therapy, however, I draw on my knowledge and skills from other approaches (mainly Gestalt and CBT) to suit my client's needs.
Are you someone who is feeling stuck or alone, struggling with depression or anxiety? Sometimes we go through low points in life and need some support to get through it. I offer a non-judgemental and a confidential space for all my clients. I work with my clients to heal from traumatic/painful experiences. I help clients to learn to value themselves, increase their self-worth and being their authentic selves. Whether your goal is to overcome depression/anxiety, or feel like you've lost direction in life, I will endeavour to assist you to reach your goal. I am in my late 40's and have also been through my own healing journey.
07479 272344 View 07479 272344
Photo of Jane Allighan, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Jane Allighan
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Oldham OL2
I’m a relational gestalt psychotherapist and offer a resolutely safe and grounded space, for us to explore your experiences, so that you can make sense of how life has been for you and how you might choose to live going forwards.
I’m a relational gestalt psychotherapist and offer a resolutely safe and grounded space, for us to explore your experiences, so that you can make sense of how life has been for you and how you might choose to live going forwards.
01706 392990 View 01706 392990
Photo of Whitney Shaw-Dale, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Whitney Shaw-Dale
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
London NW1  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting my page. I am currently working online only. Life can present us with many challenges, some of which may be harder to deal with than others. I work with clients who have/are experiencing depression, anxiety, bereavement, addictive behaviours, and abuse to name a few, which can leave us feeling blocked, hopeless and unaware of what to do. I use an integrative approach to therapy which includes, gestalt, person-centred, psychodynamic and CBT therapy to deepen awareness of these blocks and to help you make a healthy change.
Thank you for visiting my page. I am currently working online only. Life can present us with many challenges, some of which may be harder to deal with than others. I work with clients who have/are experiencing depression, anxiety, bereavement, addictive behaviours, and abuse to name a few, which can leave us feeling blocked, hopeless and unaware of what to do. I use an integrative approach to therapy which includes, gestalt, person-centred, psychodynamic and CBT therapy to deepen awareness of these blocks and to help you make a healthy change.
020 3667 9096 View 020 3667 9096
Photo of Stefania Orsi, DCounsPsych, HCPC-Couns. Psych., Psychotherapist
Stefania Orsi
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, HCPC-Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London EC2R
I work both in the NHS and in private practice using an Existential- Gestalt approach.
My main goal is to help people to achieve a better quality of life by helping them to develop awareness and responsibility on their needs and desires. I consider therapy as a creative process between the client and the therapist that starts from a stuck point in life due to a symptom, a feeling of loss, a fear or a transition from one life stage into the next one. For me therapy is not about “to cure something wrong inside us” but an opportunity to transform our dysfunctional way to live.
I work both in the NHS and in private practice using an Existential- Gestalt approach.
My main goal is to help people to achieve a better quality of life by helping them to develop awareness and responsibility on their needs and desires. I consider therapy as a creative process between the client and the therapist that starts from a stuck point in life due to a symptom, a feeling of loss, a fear or a transition from one life stage into the next one. For me therapy is not about “to cure something wrong inside us” but an opportunity to transform our dysfunctional way to live.
07449 147170 View 07449 147170
Photo of Andrew Ballance, MBACP, Counsellor
Andrew Ballance
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London E8
My approach is therefore interpersonal and existential, building on my training in Gestalt and Person-Centred modalities.
I work with adults of all ages and young people mainly here in East London and also online. If you find yourself stuck, having a difficult time, or maybe unclear about who you are or what to do, I believe I can support you in taking the next steps forward.
My approach is therefore interpersonal and existential, building on my training in Gestalt and Person-Centred modalities.
I work with adults of all ages and young people mainly here in East London and also online. If you find yourself stuck, having a difficult time, or maybe unclear about who you are or what to do, I believe I can support you in taking the next steps forward.
020 8103 3974 View 020 8103 3974
Photo of Joyce Ghiraw, UKCP Trainee, Psychotherapist
Joyce Ghiraw
Psychotherapist, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW2
I provide a safe, empathic and insightful space for you to pause and be. Supporting you to voice your inner struggles and to work through them with effect. I work with a range of issues, including relationships, self-esteem, childhood trauma, existential dread and anxiety. It energises me to see clients become happier and healthier selves. Deeply rooted in their own potential. I am a Gestalt therapist, certified in ACT-CBT, and a member of both the UK Council for Psychotherapy and BAATN. I am also working towards an advanced degree in Gestalt Psychotherapy. My work is also influenced by my passion for symbolism and Jungian analysis.
I provide a safe, empathic and insightful space for you to pause and be. Supporting you to voice your inner struggles and to work through them with effect. I work with a range of issues, including relationships, self-esteem, childhood trauma, existential dread and anxiety. It energises me to see clients become happier and healthier selves. Deeply rooted in their own potential. I am a Gestalt therapist, certified in ACT-CBT, and a member of both the UK Council for Psychotherapy and BAATN. I am also working towards an advanced degree in Gestalt Psychotherapy. My work is also influenced by my passion for symbolism and Jungian analysis.
020 3872 2644 View 020 3872 2644
Photo of Rochelle Armstrong, MBACP, Counsellor
Rochelle Armstrong
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bury Saint Edmunds IP28  (Online Only)
I can help using Rogers (person centred/humanistic), attachment theory, Jung (working with images & metaphors), psychosexual/psychosocial, attachment, cognitive behavioural therapy, Gestalt, phenomenological.
My therapeutic experiences includes working with clients who have experienced childhood trauma, have post-traumatic stress disorder, identity crisis, racial trauma, racial identity crisis, personal crisis, depression, low self esteem, mood disorders, personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder (BPD/EUPD) and many ranges of emotional ways of being. I promote resilience, mental fitness, prioritising a self care lifestyle, goal and self development accountability. I also encourage self-exploration and developing a sense of self, goal setting, becoming more of who you were born to be and living your best life!
I can help using Rogers (person centred/humanistic), attachment theory, Jung (working with images & metaphors), psychosexual/psychosocial, attachment, cognitive behavioural therapy, Gestalt, phenomenological.
My therapeutic experiences includes working with clients who have experienced childhood trauma, have post-traumatic stress disorder, identity crisis, racial trauma, racial identity crisis, personal crisis, depression, low self esteem, mood disorders, personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder (BPD/EUPD) and many ranges of emotional ways of being. I promote resilience, mental fitness, prioritising a self care lifestyle, goal and self development accountability. I also encourage self-exploration and developing a sense of self, goal setting, becoming more of who you were born to be and living your best life!
01638 596552 View 01638 596552
Photo of Christine Marie West, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Christine Marie West
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N8
In addition to exploring these issues through talking, we have the option of using more creative techniques, including gestalt, psychodrama, visualisation, focusing and mindfulness.
I offer a confidential non- judgemental space where you can talk about what is concerning you. You may come because you have issues related to anxiety, stress, sadness, low self esteem or anger. You may have deep feelings of disappointment with yourself, and others, or feelings of pointlessness, conflict within relationships. You may be struggling with a personal crisis or life event and would like to talk through with someone who is outside your friendship or family group. I listen to what is concerning you and help you reflect and explore these issues from various angles so that you find a clearer way forward.
In addition to exploring these issues through talking, we have the option of using more creative techniques, including gestalt, psychodrama, visualisation, focusing and mindfulness.
I offer a confidential non- judgemental space where you can talk about what is concerning you. You may come because you have issues related to anxiety, stress, sadness, low self esteem or anger. You may have deep feelings of disappointment with yourself, and others, or feelings of pointlessness, conflict within relationships. You may be struggling with a personal crisis or life event and would like to talk through with someone who is outside your friendship or family group. I listen to what is concerning you and help you reflect and explore these issues from various angles so that you find a clearer way forward.
020 8059 2248 View 020 8059 2248
Photo of Paul A Thorley-Ryder - Paul Thorley-Ryder CBT, EMDR and Counselling , MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Paul Thorley-Ryder CBT, EMDR and Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Manchester M24
I have additional training in CBT, EMDR and Gestalt psychotherapy.
Hello, thank you for taking a closer look. It can be really hard to select a therapist that will help you get the results you want, and all of that on top of the pain and struggles you've been living with. I'd like to help you if you're feeling anxious, unhappy, confused, or struggling to cope with a long term problem, or recent event or change. I offer support using evidence based approaches flexibly and sensitively in light of your situation - including CBT, EMDR, Gestalt counselling, person centred counselling, emotionally focussed psychotherapy. I can offer a spac to talk, work dynamically, or using creative processes.
I have additional training in CBT, EMDR and Gestalt psychotherapy.
Hello, thank you for taking a closer look. It can be really hard to select a therapist that will help you get the results you want, and all of that on top of the pain and struggles you've been living with. I'd like to help you if you're feeling anxious, unhappy, confused, or struggling to cope with a long term problem, or recent event or change. I offer support using evidence based approaches flexibly and sensitively in light of your situation - including CBT, EMDR, Gestalt counselling, person centred counselling, emotionally focussed psychotherapy. I can offer a spac to talk, work dynamically, or using creative processes.
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See more therapy options for Coventry

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.