Photo of Ann Ramatowski Netzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Ann Ramatowski Netzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I'm an active participant in the Gestalt Associates Training group in Los Angeles and enjoy working with an emotional focus in the present moment.
Hi! I'm Ann. I enjoy working with people who are open-minded, inquisitive and who like to challenge norms. Part of the therapeutic process is about confronting the parts of ourselves that we tend to hide and feel a bit less comfortable with. I'd like to help you get to know your whole self and walk beside you as you question some of the beliefs you've held, which may be in conflict with who you are now. Like you, I've been there and asked myself. "What do I want?" "Who am I?" and "What feels motivating and pleasurable in my life?" It's tough to feel ‘stuck’ and also, it's the start of something brand new.
I'm an active participant in the Gestalt Associates Training group in Los Angeles and enjoy working with an emotional focus in the present moment.
Hi! I'm Ann. I enjoy working with people who are open-minded, inquisitive and who like to challenge norms. Part of the therapeutic process is about confronting the parts of ourselves that we tend to hide and feel a bit less comfortable with. I'd like to help you get to know your whole self and walk beside you as you question some of the beliefs you've held, which may be in conflict with who you are now. Like you, I've been there and asked myself. "What do I want?" "Who am I?" and "What feels motivating and pleasurable in my life?" It's tough to feel ‘stuck’ and also, it's the start of something brand new.
(314) 820-0456 View (314) 820-0456
Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
I offer an approach influenced by person-centered, conversational style, drawing upon gestalt, CBT, mindfulness, and childhood trauma work.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
I offer an approach influenced by person-centered, conversational style, drawing upon gestalt, CBT, mindfulness, and childhood trauma work.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
(773) 915-0573 View (773) 915-0573
Photo of Barbara Friedman, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Barbara Friedman
Psychologist, PhD, LICDC, ICADC, yoga, allia
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a licensed psychologist, a Jungian psychoanalyst and a certified addictions counselor. I also have training in recovery work, Gestalt therapy and am a certified yoga instructor. I use these perspectives appropriately for the unique benefit of the client who sits in front of me. I try to meet each person with freshness each session. I advocate for change in the power dynamic between people and within the psyche and support my clients to become their most authentic and fullest self.
I am a licensed psychologist, a Jungian psychoanalyst and a certified addictions counselor. I also have training in recovery work, Gestalt therapy and am a certified yoga instructor. I use these perspectives appropriately for the unique benefit of the client who sits in front of me. I try to meet each person with freshness each session. I advocate for change in the power dynamic between people and within the psyche and support my clients to become their most authentic and fullest self.
(216) 245-3889 View (216) 245-3889
Photo of Robert Stoner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Robert Stoner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, either individually or as couples. I use an interactive approach, grounded in Gestalt Therapy with a focus on the mind/body connection. I specialize in grief and loss and navigating life’s major transitions, in recovery from past trauma, and gay/lesbian issues.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I work with adults, either individually or as couples. I use an interactive approach, grounded in Gestalt Therapy with a focus on the mind/body connection. I specialize in grief and loss and navigating life’s major transitions, in recovery from past trauma, and gay/lesbian issues.
(872) 713-5915 View (872) 713-5915
Photo of Chelsea (Derks) Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Chelsea (Derks) Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize modalities such as CBT, ACT, somatic experiencing, psychodynamic & gestalt therapy, and mindfulness practices.
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
I utilize modalities such as CBT, ACT, somatic experiencing, psychodynamic & gestalt therapy, and mindfulness practices.
My clients describe my approach as gentle and direct with a dab of humor. I do my best work treating individuals who have experienced interpersonal trauma, people who are navigating their role in complicated families, and those who have been emotionally abused. I tend to find success with people who struggle with depression or low self-esteem, people who work in high-stress or helping professions, and people who do not know where to start. I have experience working with people with Bipolar Disorder, PMDD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, auto-immune conditions, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, autism, & PTSD.
(248) 609-4698 View (248) 609-4698
Photo of Dr. Heidi D Schwartz, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dr. Heidi D Schwartz
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
I hold a Masters degree in Community Counseling from Kent State University, a specialty, 3-year certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, and a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. My clinical work centers around helping people develop satisfying relationships and lifestyles. We will work collaboratively to help you heal old wounds and make insightful meaning of your patterns of self-defeating thoughts and behaviors as they impact your current functioning and relationships. I will help you develop inner strength and creativity to remedy depression, anxiety, and unhappiness. Ultimately, you will ably make intentional choices about managing your life, goals, work, and relationships.
I hold a Masters degree in Community Counseling from Kent State University, a specialty, 3-year certificate from the Gestalt Institute of Cleveland, and a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Illinois School of Professional Psychology.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for 32 years. My clinical work centers around helping people develop satisfying relationships and lifestyles. We will work collaboratively to help you heal old wounds and make insightful meaning of your patterns of self-defeating thoughts and behaviors as they impact your current functioning and relationships. I will help you develop inner strength and creativity to remedy depression, anxiety, and unhappiness. Ultimately, you will ably make intentional choices about managing your life, goals, work, and relationships.
(708) 934-4279 View (708) 934-4279
Photo of John Samuel Milstone, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
John Samuel Milstone
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Challenges are an undeniable aspect of life's journey. I am confident that you have already discovered ways to make your challenges easier to deal with, and I am here to provide a harm-reductive approach to refine these solutions to your benefit. I firmly believe that, regardless of the time we spend together, you will always be the foremost expert on yourself. Our work will rely on this expertise, serving as a guiding tool to carve your path toward living a more empowered and meaningful life—whatever that may mean to you.
Challenges are an undeniable aspect of life's journey. I am confident that you have already discovered ways to make your challenges easier to deal with, and I am here to provide a harm-reductive approach to refine these solutions to your benefit. I firmly believe that, regardless of the time we spend together, you will always be the foremost expert on yourself. Our work will rely on this expertise, serving as a guiding tool to carve your path toward living a more empowered and meaningful life—whatever that may mean to you.
(773) 902-0484 View (773) 902-0484
Photo of Allison Grace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Allison Grace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck? Do you know what is wrong, but not how to fix it? My experience of 30+ years, enables me to offer effective and eclectic outpatient, psychotherapy. I incorporate research based techniques such as CBT and Positive Intelligence combined with practices such as Shamanism and Ho' Oponopono. I would be grateful if you would choose me as your Ally to find what will uniquely help you become your best self.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you know what is wrong, but not how to fix it? My experience of 30+ years, enables me to offer effective and eclectic outpatient, psychotherapy. I incorporate research based techniques such as CBT and Positive Intelligence combined with practices such as Shamanism and Ho' Oponopono. I would be grateful if you would choose me as your Ally to find what will uniquely help you become your best self.
(224) 505-2444 View (224) 505-2444
Photo of Katrina Ramirez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Katrina Ramirez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612
Healing can be a journey. Engaging in a space where your authentic self can shine can make that journey a bit less difficult. I try to create a space that is welcoming to your thoughts, feelings, and self-energy. I mostly work with people of marginalized communities (i.e. BIPoC, LGBTQ+, First-Gen/Immigrants), trauma survivors, and creatives. My past experiences including working with people with psychosis, sexual violence trauma, and gender affirming/supportive care.
Healing can be a journey. Engaging in a space where your authentic self can shine can make that journey a bit less difficult. I try to create a space that is welcoming to your thoughts, feelings, and self-energy. I mostly work with people of marginalized communities (i.e. BIPoC, LGBTQ+, First-Gen/Immigrants), trauma survivors, and creatives. My past experiences including working with people with psychosis, sexual violence trauma, and gender affirming/supportive care.
(773) 839-0278 View (773) 839-0278
Photo of Victoria De La Torre, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Victoria De La Torre
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60638
As a Southside native, I love working with the communities that have shaped me and given me so much. I am aware of how our decisions can affect our entire family system and therefore, using a culturally sensitive approach, we will work together to find solutions and set goals based on what is important to you. I am especially passionate about helping clients build their self-esteem and challenge those negative thoughts that can make our day-to-day seem so much more difficult. I enjoy working with teens and adults of all genders, but I specialize in helping women overcome emotional, relational, and societal barriers.
As a Southside native, I love working with the communities that have shaped me and given me so much. I am aware of how our decisions can affect our entire family system and therefore, using a culturally sensitive approach, we will work together to find solutions and set goals based on what is important to you. I am especially passionate about helping clients build their self-esteem and challenge those negative thoughts that can make our day-to-day seem so much more difficult. I enjoy working with teens and adults of all genders, but I specialize in helping women overcome emotional, relational, and societal barriers.
(630) 349-5282 View (630) 349-5282
Photo of Luz Maria Miranda, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Luz Maria Miranda
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
My name is Luz (she/they)! I understand that therapy can be scary! It’s not easy opening up to a stranger, but I want you to know I will meet you where you are. I believe in treating my clients with softness and aim to build trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship through empathy and patience. In our capitalist society, it is easy for us to go on autopilot and simply work, work, work. That is completely valid since we need to work to survive. However, slowing down and being mindful of our breath, what we feel in our bodies, and simply listening to our heartbeats reconnects us to not only ourselves, but the Earth.
My name is Luz (she/they)! I understand that therapy can be scary! It’s not easy opening up to a stranger, but I want you to know I will meet you where you are. I believe in treating my clients with softness and aim to build trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship through empathy and patience. In our capitalist society, it is easy for us to go on autopilot and simply work, work, work. That is completely valid since we need to work to survive. However, slowing down and being mindful of our breath, what we feel in our bodies, and simply listening to our heartbeats reconnects us to not only ourselves, but the Earth.
(872) 228-2557 View (872) 228-2557
Photo of Sam Ege, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sam Ege
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
If you often catch yourself worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, I imagine you're feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, wanting to feel secure in the present moment. My goal is to meet you right where you are and equip you with the tools to navigate life's challenges, while encouraging you to see things from different lenses in a safe environment where you can be yourself as we journey back to the here and now. My approach is encouraging, collaborative, and conversational in nature. I value authenticity, responsibility, integrity, and empowerment, both in and outside of the therapeutic setting.
If you often catch yourself worrying about the future or dwelling on the past, I imagine you're feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, wanting to feel secure in the present moment. My goal is to meet you right where you are and equip you with the tools to navigate life's challenges, while encouraging you to see things from different lenses in a safe environment where you can be yourself as we journey back to the here and now. My approach is encouraging, collaborative, and conversational in nature. I value authenticity, responsibility, integrity, and empowerment, both in and outside of the therapeutic setting.
(872) 204-1531 View (872) 204-1531
Photo of Nahime Guadalupe Aguirre Mtanous, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nahime Guadalupe Aguirre Mtanous
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LSW, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
My work focuses on supporting the mental health of adults with various presentations of neurodiversity, like Autism, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Down's Syndrome, Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. You might be looking for someone to help you work on "adulting." You may be dealing with the stress of becoming independent. You want to work through the anxiety and depression from living in a world that isn't built for people like us. We can work together on to figure out your values. You and I will create goals towards finding your own happiness and feeling powerful.
My work focuses on supporting the mental health of adults with various presentations of neurodiversity, like Autism, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Down's Syndrome, Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. You might be looking for someone to help you work on "adulting." You may be dealing with the stress of becoming independent. You want to work through the anxiety and depression from living in a world that isn't built for people like us. We can work together on to figure out your values. You and I will create goals towards finding your own happiness and feeling powerful.
(872) 240-5805 View (872) 240-5805
Photo of Caitlin McQueen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Caitlin McQueen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Everyone deserves to live a meaningful life, no matter what we have experienced or where we may come from. Therapy can be a great place to explore your values, beliefs, and attitudes, and examine how you might reorient those concepts to align with your authentic self. My clients are the experts on their own lives, and I am here to facilitate your exploration of yourself, others, and your worldview to find meaning in life. I have worked in community mental health for six years, and I focus on trauma-informed care for those with complex trauma histories, specializing in complex trauma, grief, and existential concerns as a therapist.
Everyone deserves to live a meaningful life, no matter what we have experienced or where we may come from. Therapy can be a great place to explore your values, beliefs, and attitudes, and examine how you might reorient those concepts to align with your authentic self. My clients are the experts on their own lives, and I am here to facilitate your exploration of yourself, others, and your worldview to find meaning in life. I have worked in community mental health for six years, and I focus on trauma-informed care for those with complex trauma histories, specializing in complex trauma, grief, and existential concerns as a therapist.
(872) 266-7813 View (872) 266-7813
Photo of Sophie B, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sophie B
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
In broad terms, anyone interested in Jungian psychology, the the theory and practice developed by Carl Jung, may resonate with my approach. We’ll talk through whatever you want, but I’ll also encourage you to delve beneath the surface. Specifically those who identify as Queer, those interested in the healing power of psychedelic medicines, those who identify as Christian and those interested in couple work may find value in my approach.
In broad terms, anyone interested in Jungian psychology, the the theory and practice developed by Carl Jung, may resonate with my approach. We’ll talk through whatever you want, but I’ll also encourage you to delve beneath the surface. Specifically those who identify as Queer, those interested in the healing power of psychedelic medicines, those who identify as Christian and those interested in couple work may find value in my approach.
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Photo of Jessica Backus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jessica Backus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
I’m a warmhearted therapist dedicated to fostering deep connections and emotional safety. My approach will empower you to embrace your authentic self, navigate diverse emotions, and face challenges with courage and compassion. I’ll create a comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively, empowering you to make lasting changes aligned with your values and principles, leading to a more fulfilling life. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, empathetic, radically compassionate, playful, strength-based and non-judgmental.
I’m a warmhearted therapist dedicated to fostering deep connections and emotional safety. My approach will empower you to embrace your authentic self, navigate diverse emotions, and face challenges with courage and compassion. I’ll create a comfortable environment for us to work collaboratively, empowering you to make lasting changes aligned with your values and principles, leading to a more fulfilling life. My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, empathetic, radically compassionate, playful, strength-based and non-judgmental.
(872) 204-1489 View (872) 204-1489
Photo of Julia Porter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Julia Porter
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Sometimes it feels like life is just working against us. You may feel overwhelmed, lost, stressed, numb, or disconnected from the people and things in your life that you care about the most—including yourself. Together, we will strengthen and expand your capacity to be with, and work through, the challenges that come your way, while building self-compassion, mindfulness, and a sense of connection to your truest, most whole self. As we explore your experiences and current coping strategies, you can gain meaningful insight, discover which approaches are no longer serving you, and unlock the ability to make more intentional choices.
Sometimes it feels like life is just working against us. You may feel overwhelmed, lost, stressed, numb, or disconnected from the people and things in your life that you care about the most—including yourself. Together, we will strengthen and expand your capacity to be with, and work through, the challenges that come your way, while building self-compassion, mindfulness, and a sense of connection to your truest, most whole self. As we explore your experiences and current coping strategies, you can gain meaningful insight, discover which approaches are no longer serving you, and unlock the ability to make more intentional choices.
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Photo of Emem Itiat, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Emem Itiat
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Navigating life's set backs, challenges, and adversities can absolutely take a toll on our wellbeing and ability to function, which is why it is important to know that you do not have to work through these concerns alone. I believe in the power of healing through promoting self-awareness, autonomy and empowerment, and also in people's strength to move towards change. Though suffering is a part of life, something that all humans share, working to manifest helpful and sustainable coping mechanisms, and skills that will work to serve you long term makes a difference in the quality of life a person experiences.
Navigating life's set backs, challenges, and adversities can absolutely take a toll on our wellbeing and ability to function, which is why it is important to know that you do not have to work through these concerns alone. I believe in the power of healing through promoting self-awareness, autonomy and empowerment, and also in people's strength to move towards change. Though suffering is a part of life, something that all humans share, working to manifest helpful and sustainable coping mechanisms, and skills that will work to serve you long term makes a difference in the quality of life a person experiences.
(312) 626-7591 View (312) 626-7591
Photo of Troy Eldon Gibson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Troy Eldon Gibson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like your emotions are just too much to handle on your own? And do you bottle things up because you don't want to be a burden? All of that built up pressure can be a lot to carry. I want to help you untangle yourself from the heaviness of your experiences. Let’s work together to figure out how to express your unresolved emotions and reach the healing that you deserve. There is nothing wrong with getting some extra support to figure things out and get back on track. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey.
Are you feeling like your emotions are just too much to handle on your own? And do you bottle things up because you don't want to be a burden? All of that built up pressure can be a lot to carry. I want to help you untangle yourself from the heaviness of your experiences. Let’s work together to figure out how to express your unresolved emotions and reach the healing that you deserve. There is nothing wrong with getting some extra support to figure things out and get back on track. When you are ready, I am here to support and empower you along your journey.
(773) 313-3427 View (773) 313-3427
Photo of Lotus Root Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lotus Root Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
We're a trauma-informed, culturally-sensitive mental health counseling group for multicultural, Asian, BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities. We're passionate about working with individuals, couples and families from different cultural backgrounds, exploring how complex identities and unique personal experiences have shaped us into who we are. We specialize in healing from anxiety, complex trauma, relationship issues, perinatal issues, ADHD, adoption, OCD, stress, cultural identity, cultural/intergenerational conflicts, family conflicts, grief, and other issues.
(773) 364-1625 View (773) 364-1625
Gestalt Therapists

What is gestalt therapy?

Gestalt therapy is based on the idea that to address unresolved negative feelings, emotions must be not only discussed but also actively expressed in the present moment. The term is from a German word meaning “whole,” and gestalt therapists believe that people should be considered whole entities made up of mind, body, and emotions. Gestalt sessions are rooted in the notion that a client’s total self must be discovered, explored, and confronted, so that they can take greater responsibility for themselves and their behavior, learn to satisfy their own needs while still respecting the needs of others, and reconnect with feelings they might otherwise deny.

How does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy sessions do not just involve talking with a therapist. Clients may take part in role-playing, re-enactment, or artistic exercises like drawing and painting, with the goal of becoming more aware of negative thought patterns that limit happiness. One common gestalt exercise is “the empty chair,” in which a client sits across from an empty chair representing a partner, relative, boss, or a part of themselves—and, with the therapist’s encouragement, improvises a dialog with it. The intention is to bring the emotions raised by past conflicts into the present and work through them in the moment.

How long does gestalt therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for gestalt therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. New patients should understand that it may take some time to become comfortable with gestalt exercises but once they do, they should expect sessions to extend for a number of months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions.

Does gestalt therapy work?

Gestalt therapy has generally been found to be as effective as other forms of talk therapy in helping people living with anxiety, depression, phobias, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorders, as well as helping individuals reduce conflict in relationships. Gestalt techniques, on their own or in combination with other therapies, can also be effective in managing physical ailments including ulcerative colitis, migraines, and back spasms. It should be noted that some people may have trouble adapting to gestalt therapy’s lack of formal structure or to a therapist’s close observations of their body language and emotions; others may struggle to commit to techniques that feel unnatural, like the empty chair exercise.