Gestalt Therapists in Tryon, NC

Photo of Colleen Welty - Polk County Treatment Services, MA , CSAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Polk County Treatment Services
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA , CSAC
Verified Verified
Tryon, NC 28782
Being charged with a DWI can be an overwhelming event. I am here as an educated and supportive professional to help during this difficult time. As a certified substance abuse counselor with the state of N.C. and owner of Polk County Treatment Services, a N.C. State Authorized DWI Facility, I fully understand many of the challenges that can arise during this emotional time. Most assessments can be scheduled within 24 hours of first contact, with afternoon, evening or weekend appointments made available. Treatment groups are tailored to be compatible with my client's work and personal obligations.
Being charged with a DWI can be an overwhelming event. I am here as an educated and supportive professional to help during this difficult time. As a certified substance abuse counselor with the state of N.C. and owner of Polk County Treatment Services, a N.C. State Authorized DWI Facility, I fully understand many of the challenges that can arise during this emotional time. Most assessments can be scheduled within 24 hours of first contact, with afternoon, evening or weekend appointments made available. Treatment groups are tailored to be compatible with my client's work and personal obligations.
(828) 358-1918 View (828) 358-1918

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Geoff Graham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Geoff Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, NC 28722
He is certified in DBT, trained in Gestalt and Emotion Focused Therapy.
Are you looking for a listening ear? Someone who is genuine, willing to join you in your journey to reach your goals? Geoff is here for you.
He is certified in DBT, trained in Gestalt and Emotion Focused Therapy.
Are you looking for a listening ear? Someone who is genuine, willing to join you in your journey to reach your goals? Geoff is here for you.
(828) 360-9617 View (828) 360-9617
Photo of Frank Hill, LCMHC-A, NCPSS, Counselor
Frank Hill
Counselor, LCMHC-A, NCPSS
Verified Verified
Mill Spring, NC 28756
We all struggle. It is universal. But we can all also learn practices, tools, and insights to help us struggle well. Whether you are feeling hopeless, lost, confused, or down, I believe we can work together to find a way through the tough times and develop the skills you need to keep moving forward in positivity. Areas of focus include mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, ADHD, substance abuse issues, veterans' concerns, and parenting skills.
We all struggle. It is universal. But we can all also learn practices, tools, and insights to help us struggle well. Whether you are feeling hopeless, lost, confused, or down, I believe we can work together to find a way through the tough times and develop the skills you need to keep moving forward in positivity. Areas of focus include mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, ADHD, substance abuse issues, veterans' concerns, and parenting skills.
(828) 492-2766 View (828) 492-2766
Photo of Michael B Canton, MEd, LPCC, LCMHC
Michael B Canton
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Flat Rock, NC 28731  (Online Only)
I am licensed in North Carolina and Ohio with 7+ years of professional work experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I also specialize in men's coaching, and have a knack for working with teen boys. I help clients develop daily practices, along with custom coping strategies for specific triggers. I also help clients clarify their life purpose, and bring that purpose into their chosen relationships and career. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional & sexual intimacy. Overall, I offer guidance for a more mindful, embodied & spiritual lifestyle.
I am licensed in North Carolina and Ohio with 7+ years of professional work experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders. I also specialize in men's coaching, and have a knack for working with teen boys. I help clients develop daily practices, along with custom coping strategies for specific triggers. I also help clients clarify their life purpose, and bring that purpose into their chosen relationships and career. I work with couples to repair trust, improve communication, and strengthen their emotional & sexual intimacy. Overall, I offer guidance for a more mindful, embodied & spiritual lifestyle.
(330) 778-8656 View (330) 778-8656

Online Therapists

Photo of Jared Hinton, MAT, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, Counselor
Jared Hinton
Counselor, MAT, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
A history teacher turned therapist, my theoretical influences stem from Contemplative and Buddhist Psychology, a deep interest and regard for indigenous culture, village-mindedness, Gestalt Therapy, and as my roles as a husband and father.
Through counseling with me, you will learn how to relate differently to troubling thoughts, emotions and behaviors while cultivating greater empathy, understanding, and acceptance of yourself and others.
A history teacher turned therapist, my theoretical influences stem from Contemplative and Buddhist Psychology, a deep interest and regard for indigenous culture, village-mindedness, Gestalt Therapy, and as my roles as a husband and father.
Through counseling with me, you will learn how to relate differently to troubling thoughts, emotions and behaviors while cultivating greater empathy, understanding, and acceptance of yourself and others.
(828) 574-6432 View (828) 574-6432
Photo of Anne Jacobe, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Jacobe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I have received certificates in Level 1 and 2 in EMDR, have 8 years of gestalt training, and a clinical supervision certificate.
Welcome to this page and thank you for visiting.  I see my role as a therapist to be a witness and guide on your journey towards healing and wholeness.  I connect with those who are seeking to find themselves, dealing with a life transition, and seeking a supportive presence from a holistic foundation. I hold the space for change to occur as you move you closer to your goals. I creatively adjust to the unique needs of clients that come and see me.
I have received certificates in Level 1 and 2 in EMDR, have 8 years of gestalt training, and a clinical supervision certificate.
Welcome to this page and thank you for visiting.  I see my role as a therapist to be a witness and guide on your journey towards healing and wholeness.  I connect with those who are seeking to find themselves, dealing with a life transition, and seeking a supportive presence from a holistic foundation. I hold the space for change to occur as you move you closer to your goals. I creatively adjust to the unique needs of clients that come and see me.
(276) 242-2581 View (276) 242-2581
Photo of Anna P Eaton, MEd, NCC, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Anna P Eaton
Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gastonia, NC 28054
Therapeutic approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Culturally Sensitive, Mindfulness Based, Gestalt, and Psychotherapy.
It can be daunting to face major life changes such as death, health issues, divorce, retirement, relationship issues, aging, and feeling stuck in life. Successful counseling takes courage and commitment. Congratulations on taking the first step. We will start by you sharing your story of what is distressing you and what you want to change. Then, we will collaborate and develop a plan to address your objectives that you believe will work for you. I will guide you through the process to help you believe in your personal strengths, heal, and learn new behaviors that bring positive outcomes.
Therapeutic approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Culturally Sensitive, Mindfulness Based, Gestalt, and Psychotherapy.
It can be daunting to face major life changes such as death, health issues, divorce, retirement, relationship issues, aging, and feeling stuck in life. Successful counseling takes courage and commitment. Congratulations on taking the first step. We will start by you sharing your story of what is distressing you and what you want to change. Then, we will collaborate and develop a plan to address your objectives that you believe will work for you. I will guide you through the process to help you believe in your personal strengths, heal, and learn new behaviors that bring positive outcomes.
(704) 870-3783 View (704) 870-3783
Photo of Jamie Oxendine, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Oxendine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylva, NC 28779
I have been a clinician for 18 years and have found it one of my life’s greatest honors to be with people as they learn to be with themselves. My experience has been, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and behavioral concerns. I am dedicated to creating a safe place to explore with clients the changes they wish to make to improve their overall functioning. Building a relationship with clients is the most important and finding a good fit is crucial! My theoretical orientation is based in Gestalt therapy and I also have training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and EMDR.
I have been a clinician for 18 years and have found it one of my life’s greatest honors to be with people as they learn to be with themselves. My experience has been, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and behavioral concerns. I am dedicated to creating a safe place to explore with clients the changes they wish to make to improve their overall functioning. Building a relationship with clients is the most important and finding a good fit is crucial! My theoretical orientation is based in Gestalt therapy and I also have training and experience in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and EMDR.
(828) 604-6258 View (828) 604-6258
Photo of Jenny Marie Massaway, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Marie Massaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117  (Online Only)
I provide an approach that focuses primarily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, although, I also offer Gestalt therapy and Play Therapy.
Children and adolescents need to know there is someone out there willing to sit and listen to what they are going through and have a support system in which to help them through a challenging time. Counseling is the first step towards taking control over one's life, and finding a counselor that is a good fit is imperative. I believe that therapy is a partnership that allows me the opportunity to help guide you towards your own personal goals.
I provide an approach that focuses primarily on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, although, I also offer Gestalt therapy and Play Therapy.
Children and adolescents need to know there is someone out there willing to sit and listen to what they are going through and have a support system in which to help them through a challenging time. Counseling is the first step towards taking control over one's life, and finding a counselor that is a good fit is imperative. I believe that therapy is a partnership that allows me the opportunity to help guide you towards your own personal goals.
(734) 357-8293 View (734) 357-8293
Photo of Michelle White, MA, LCHMC-A, Counselor
Michelle White
Counselor, MA, LCHMC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kannapolis, NC 28083
I use an eclectic, person-centered approach to therapy and apply techniques rooted in Adlerian therapy, CBT, DBT, and Gestalt therapy.
Hello! I am so glad that you are here! I believe that therapy is for everyone. All people deserve a safe space to be truly heard, understood, and supported. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults facing a wide variety of issues, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, grief and/or loss, interpersonal relationship issues, and trauma. I strive to meet people where they are in their mental health journey and assist them in finding peace, joy, and meaning in their lives.
I use an eclectic, person-centered approach to therapy and apply techniques rooted in Adlerian therapy, CBT, DBT, and Gestalt therapy.
Hello! I am so glad that you are here! I believe that therapy is for everyone. All people deserve a safe space to be truly heard, understood, and supported. I work with adolescents, young adults, and adults facing a wide variety of issues, including depression, mood disorders, anxiety, personality disorders, ADD/ADHD, eating disorders, self-esteem issues, grief and/or loss, interpersonal relationship issues, and trauma. I strive to meet people where they are in their mental health journey and assist them in finding peace, joy, and meaning in their lives.
(980) 990-3227 View (980) 990-3227
Photo of Rebecca Siwanowicz, LCSW, MCAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Siwanowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Treatment modalities I frequent are: MI, CBT, DBT, SFT, SBT, Existentialism, Attachment Based Therapy, CCT, ACT, Gestalt, Humanistic Therapy, Trauma Therapy, etc.
Hello beautiful people! There is no instruction manual for life and being human in an ever changing world is tough. I believe that we are all perfectly, imperfect and aim to assist my clients in appreciating their individuality and developing a life and sense of self of their choosing. I firmly believe that, as human beings, we don't belong in a box. If you are struggling with a life altering situation or simply need to process some potential life changes, reach out! You deserve a safe, supportive environment where you can be transparent and honest in achieving your personal goals and thriving in life rather than just surviving!
Treatment modalities I frequent are: MI, CBT, DBT, SFT, SBT, Existentialism, Attachment Based Therapy, CCT, ACT, Gestalt, Humanistic Therapy, Trauma Therapy, etc.
Hello beautiful people! There is no instruction manual for life and being human in an ever changing world is tough. I believe that we are all perfectly, imperfect and aim to assist my clients in appreciating their individuality and developing a life and sense of self of their choosing. I firmly believe that, as human beings, we don't belong in a box. If you are struggling with a life altering situation or simply need to process some potential life changes, reach out! You deserve a safe, supportive environment where you can be transparent and honest in achieving your personal goals and thriving in life rather than just surviving!
(919) 804-1372 View (919) 804-1372
Photo of Nicholas Edwin Seay Emmanuel, MA, LMFT, LCMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicholas Edwin Seay Emmanuel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Sylva, NC 28779  (Online Only)
I am the director and a co-founder of the Appalachian Gestalt Therapy Institute offering opportunities for learning Gestalt Processes.
Every client is an "ideal" client. My job is to be present with you in a way that, together, we facilitate your discovering the life that fits you where you are at the times of our meetings. Our work will involve your discovering how you block creating that life and what results and experiences you create with those blocks and then experimenting with new ways of your living. I continue to work with people with "minor" every day issues and "major" mental health issues.
I am the director and a co-founder of the Appalachian Gestalt Therapy Institute offering opportunities for learning Gestalt Processes.
Every client is an "ideal" client. My job is to be present with you in a way that, together, we facilitate your discovering the life that fits you where you are at the times of our meetings. Our work will involve your discovering how you block creating that life and what results and experiences you create with those blocks and then experimenting with new ways of your living. I continue to work with people with "minor" every day issues and "major" mental health issues.
(828) 756-3205 View (828) 756-3205
Photo of Christen Taylor, LCMHC, LPC(SC), LCAS, CCS, CCTP, Counselor
Christen Taylor
Counselor, LCMHC, LPC(SC), LCAS, CCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
My therapeutic style is grounded in Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy frequently utilizing Gestalt techniques as well.
Do you want to discover not only how to help yourself for the here and now but build a foundation that can sustain you for a future? The goal is to help you learn how to help yourself by providing you tools and coping skills while processing the impact that life and others may have had on you. Do you struggle with feeling empty, unfulfilled, and lost? Maybe you are using substances to mask or cope with the emotional pain. Maybe shame, guilt, or grief is holding you back from feeling like yourself. Maybe life just feels too difficult or not worth it?
My therapeutic style is grounded in Motivational Interviewing and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy frequently utilizing Gestalt techniques as well.
Do you want to discover not only how to help yourself for the here and now but build a foundation that can sustain you for a future? The goal is to help you learn how to help yourself by providing you tools and coping skills while processing the impact that life and others may have had on you. Do you struggle with feeling empty, unfulfilled, and lost? Maybe you are using substances to mask or cope with the emotional pain. Maybe shame, guilt, or grief is holding you back from feeling like yourself. Maybe life just feels too difficult or not worth it?
(828) 373-3124 View (828) 373-3124
Photo of Dorothy Cashore, PhD, Psychologist
Dorothy Cashore
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
My primary clinical influences are Gestalt therapy, Buddhist/mindfulness-based therapy, EMDR, and humanistic therapy.
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
My primary clinical influences are Gestalt therapy, Buddhist/mindfulness-based therapy, EMDR, and humanistic therapy.
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
View
Photo of Lk Kauffman Bissell, MA, LCMHC, NCC, LMHC
Lk Kauffman Bissell
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hendersonville, NC 28791
I use mindfulness, meditation, somatic/body work, person centered therapy, Gestalt techniques, polyvagal theory, and experiential therapy.
If you are reading this, I imagine you are exploring ways to find healing, growth, and change in some aspect of your life or for someone you care for deeply. The process of finding a therapist may feel challenging and overwhelming. Welcome, I am hopeful that I can provide some help and support in exploring if we will be a good match for your healing journey. The clients I work with are often experiencing anxiety, depression, self-doubt and low self-esteem, PTSD, interpersonal struggles, and relationship struggles.
I use mindfulness, meditation, somatic/body work, person centered therapy, Gestalt techniques, polyvagal theory, and experiential therapy.
If you are reading this, I imagine you are exploring ways to find healing, growth, and change in some aspect of your life or for someone you care for deeply. The process of finding a therapist may feel challenging and overwhelming. Welcome, I am hopeful that I can provide some help and support in exploring if we will be a good match for your healing journey. The clients I work with are often experiencing anxiety, depression, self-doubt and low self-esteem, PTSD, interpersonal struggles, and relationship struggles.
(828) 522-9183 View (828) 522-9183
Photo of Laura Schmidt, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Laura Schmidt
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mills River, NC 28759  (Online Only)
During therapy, I pull from Cognitive Behavioral strategies, Strength-Based Counseling, and Gestalt psychology.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified Play Therapist. I was a school counselor for almost a decade and have offered individual and family therapy in a private practice setting for 10+ years. I am passionate about helping children, teens, young adults, and families reach peak life satisfaction. I partner with those facing bumps along their journey to cope with life's challenges. Please reach out to get to know me further!
During therapy, I pull from Cognitive Behavioral strategies, Strength-Based Counseling, and Gestalt psychology.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Certified Play Therapist. I was a school counselor for almost a decade and have offered individual and family therapy in a private practice setting for 10+ years. I am passionate about helping children, teens, young adults, and families reach peak life satisfaction. I partner with those facing bumps along their journey to cope with life's challenges. Please reach out to get to know me further!
(704) 703-3739 View (704) 703-3739
Photo of Allison (Alli) Pongetti, LCMHCA, Counselor
Allison (Alli) Pongetti
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cornelius, NC 28031
With a holistic approach, I combine elements of gestalt therapy, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions to guide emerging adults towards personal growth, improved self-esteem, and enhanced overall well-being.
My passion is working with the unique challenges faced by emerging adults dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, grief, and trauma, although I am open to working with adults of all ages. Specializing in emerging adults (16-30), I recognize the pivotal stage of life that this demographic represents, where young individuals are transitioning into adulthood and facing complex emotional and psychological changes. Through a client-centered approach, I foster a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
With a holistic approach, I combine elements of gestalt therapy, person-centered therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions to guide emerging adults towards personal growth, improved self-esteem, and enhanced overall well-being.
My passion is working with the unique challenges faced by emerging adults dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, grief, and trauma, although I am open to working with adults of all ages. Specializing in emerging adults (16-30), I recognize the pivotal stage of life that this demographic represents, where young individuals are transitioning into adulthood and facing complex emotional and psychological changes. Through a client-centered approach, I foster a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your emotions, develop coping strategies, and build resilience.
(980) 907-6285 View (980) 907-6285
Photo of Campbell Arlan Dean, LCHMC, LCAS-A, Licensed Professional Counselor
Campbell Arlan Dean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCHMC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in a Gestalt Approach, Brainspotting, and Relapse Prevention.
Use this upcoming Fall season to change. If you want to use this time to gain insight, grow, and navigate out of unhelpful patterns, then I invite you to contact me. I specialize in assisting you to manage shame, relationships, addiction recovery, and trauma. My approach to therapy is to assist clients in raising awareness of uncounsious experiences in order to live a more authentic and purposeful life. I aim to assist in shedding light on what is dark with a blend of humor and compassionate challenges that break those unhelpful patterns. My clients leave with a renewed sense of insight, awareness, and empowerment.
I am trained in a Gestalt Approach, Brainspotting, and Relapse Prevention.
Use this upcoming Fall season to change. If you want to use this time to gain insight, grow, and navigate out of unhelpful patterns, then I invite you to contact me. I specialize in assisting you to manage shame, relationships, addiction recovery, and trauma. My approach to therapy is to assist clients in raising awareness of uncounsious experiences in order to live a more authentic and purposeful life. I aim to assist in shedding light on what is dark with a blend of humor and compassionate challenges that break those unhelpful patterns. My clients leave with a renewed sense of insight, awareness, and empowerment.
(828) 532-3191 View (828) 532-3191
Photo of Christina Phillips, LCMHC, Counselor
Christina Phillips
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215
Hello, My name is Christina Phillips. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I approach therapy as a journey together, in which we get to grow. I have special experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have experience doing individual and family therapy. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Strategic Family Therapy.
Hello, My name is Christina Phillips. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I approach therapy as a journey together, in which we get to grow. I have special experience working with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I have experience doing individual and family therapy. I commonly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, and Strategic Family Therapy.
(980) 325-3585 View (980) 325-3585
Photo of Susan Ann Randi Lourme - Susan Lourme, Psychotherapy & Spiritual Coaching, LMFT, MA, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Lourme, Psychotherapy & Spiritual Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I draw from various modalities, including Somatics, EMDR, Trauma, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and spiritually oriented approaches, allowing feelings to surface & release.
We humans are wired for contact and connection. Yet sometimes we don't know how to develop the needed connections; relationship building and managing one’s life effectively can thus be both terrifying and exhilarating . Lack of healthy support and resultant traumas leave us depressed, anxious, isolated, or insecure, leading to addictions, obsessions and compulsions, poor communication, relationship difficulties, or general dis-ease in one’s life. Yet healing is possible, and finding a therapist with whom you resonate is crucial.
I draw from various modalities, including Somatics, EMDR, Trauma, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and spiritually oriented approaches, allowing feelings to surface & release.
We humans are wired for contact and connection. Yet sometimes we don't know how to develop the needed connections; relationship building and managing one’s life effectively can thus be both terrifying and exhilarating . Lack of healthy support and resultant traumas leave us depressed, anxious, isolated, or insecure, leading to addictions, obsessions and compulsions, poor communication, relationship difficulties, or general dis-ease in one’s life. Yet healing is possible, and finding a therapist with whom you resonate is crucial.
(510) 858-0676 View (510) 858-0676

See more therapy options for Tryon

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.