Gestalt Therapists in Cumberland County, NJ

Photo of It Takes a Family Salem in Cumberland County, NJ
It Takes a Family Salem
MD, APN, LMFT, LCSW, LPC LSW, LAC,
Verified Verified
Bridgeton, NJ 08302  (Online Only)
It Takes a Family borrows from an ancient African Proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child" which teaches the eternal truth that no man, woman, family or community is an island. ITAF believes in approaching sound mental health holistically and collectively knowing that a collaborative effort with families empowers communities to raise children that build positive societies. At ITAF we advocate for partnerships between clients and staff to provide effective outcomes in counseling and behavioral management. Our staff includes Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Licensed Therapist, Masters Level Clinicians, Advanced Practice Nurses as well as Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselors. Our clinicians and medical staff have extensive years of experience in their various areas of expertise. We strongly believe in serving our clients and their circle of influence knowing that individuals are better equipped when anchored in a cohesive support system; consequently, the passion to serve a diverse population individually, collectively and the reason for the name, It Takes A Family
It Takes a Family borrows from an ancient African Proverb, "It takes a village to raise a child" which teaches the eternal truth that no man, woman, family or community is an island. ITAF believes in approaching sound mental health holistically and collectively knowing that a collaborative effort with families empowers communities to raise children that build positive societies. At ITAF we advocate for partnerships between clients and staff to provide effective outcomes in counseling and behavioral management. Our staff includes Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Licensed Therapist, Masters Level Clinicians, Advanced Practice Nurses as well as Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselors. Our clinicians and medical staff have extensive years of experience in their various areas of expertise. We strongly believe in serving our clients and their circle of influence knowing that individuals are better equipped when anchored in a cohesive support system; consequently, the passion to serve a diverse population individually, collectively and the reason for the name, It Takes A Family
(856) 378-7292 View (856) 378-7292
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vineland, NJ 08360
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
(856) 481-2850 View (856) 481-2850
Photo of Ashley Grayson, Counselor in Cumberland County, NJ
Ashley Grayson
Counselor, MA, LAC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Vineland, NJ 08360
If you're ready to embrace change, I'd love to support you along your journey. My ideal client would be willing to work together consistently to address any needs, struggles, or issues, to build self-understanding, and to strive toward personal goals and happiness.
If you're ready to embrace change, I'd love to support you along your journey. My ideal client would be willing to work together consistently to address any needs, struggles, or issues, to build self-understanding, and to strive toward personal goals and happiness.
(856) 475-6426 View (856) 475-6426
Photo of Kisoone Wickham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Kisoone Wickham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Vineland, NJ 08360
An ideal client for a mental health professional would be an individual with a mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc., who demonstrates the motivation to change and improve their well-being. This client should be committed to attending therapy sessions regularly, keeping appointments, and actively engaging in the therapeutic process to manage or overcome their diagnosis.
An ideal client for a mental health professional would be an individual with a mental health disorder such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc., who demonstrates the motivation to change and improve their well-being. This client should be committed to attending therapy sessions regularly, keeping appointments, and actively engaging in the therapeutic process to manage or overcome their diagnosis.
(856) 501-5861 View (856) 501-5861
Photo of Samantha Powell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Samantha Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vineland, NJ 08360
A client who is continuously present physically and mentally for treatment is ideal. Despite setbacks and stressors, they still move forward, only taking a moment. Their issues can be environmental, situational, or psychological.
A client who is continuously present physically and mentally for treatment is ideal. Despite setbacks and stressors, they still move forward, only taking a moment. Their issues can be environmental, situational, or psychological.
(856) 387-5578 View (856) 387-5578

Online Therapists

Photo of Sandra Constable, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumberland County, NJ
Sandra Constable
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, TI-CBT, BCC, FOT
Verified Verified
Lambertville, NJ 08530
I incorporate both Western methods of therapy, such as Person Centered, Focusing Oriented Therapy, Gestalt, CBT, and SFBT, as well as Eastern philosophies which help to increase self awareness and a more mindful life style.
I am a Licensed Therapist and Life Coach. I strive to provide gentle, non-judgmental and compassionate support, yet will also challenge you to grow and evolve into the best person you can be. Through thoughtful inquiry and investigation into your personal challenges we will explore those places that keep you stuck. If you are seeking to grow personally, professionally, creatively, emotionally, and spiritually, call for a free consultation. Together we can begin a journey that will take you to unlimited places. The destination is to reach your truth, so that you can begin to live a more joyful, meaningful, and authentic existence.
I incorporate both Western methods of therapy, such as Person Centered, Focusing Oriented Therapy, Gestalt, CBT, and SFBT, as well as Eastern philosophies which help to increase self awareness and a more mindful life style.
I am a Licensed Therapist and Life Coach. I strive to provide gentle, non-judgmental and compassionate support, yet will also challenge you to grow and evolve into the best person you can be. Through thoughtful inquiry and investigation into your personal challenges we will explore those places that keep you stuck. If you are seeking to grow personally, professionally, creatively, emotionally, and spiritually, call for a free consultation. Together we can begin a journey that will take you to unlimited places. The destination is to reach your truth, so that you can begin to live a more joyful, meaningful, and authentic existence.
(267) 915-6273 View (267) 915-6273
Photo of Jennifer Weiskott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Jennifer Weiskott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
Jennifer Weiskott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 21 years of experience working with adult clients who are dealing with domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, postpartum depression, and OCD. In sessions, she utilizes cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, strengths-based therapy, Gestalt therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and empowerment therapy. Jennifer received her Master's degree in Social Work from Monmouth University.
Jennifer Weiskott is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 21 years of experience working with adult clients who are dealing with domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, postpartum depression, and OCD. In sessions, she utilizes cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, strengths-based therapy, Gestalt therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and empowerment therapy. Jennifer received her Master's degree in Social Work from Monmouth University.
(856) 934-4181 View (856) 934-4181
Photo of Healing Our Parts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Healing Our Parts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rahway, NJ 07065  (Online Only)
Hello there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a heartfelt passion for making a positive difference in people's lives. My journey started back in 2000 when I earned my MSW from NYU. In 2007, I embarked on a transformative journey to become a Gestalt Therapist, honing my counseling skills to better serve the public.
Hello there! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a heartfelt passion for making a positive difference in people's lives. My journey started back in 2000 when I earned my MSW from NYU. In 2007, I embarked on a transformative journey to become a Gestalt Therapist, honing my counseling skills to better serve the public.
(929) 466-9918 View (929) 466-9918
Photo of Faith and Grace Psychothereapy L.L.C, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumberland County, NJ
Faith and Grace Psychothereapy L.L.C
Licensed Professional Counselor, DHA, MA, LPC,ACS, LCADC, CCTP, GCP,NCC
Verified Verified
Peapack, NJ 07977
Dr. Gabriel likes working with co-occurring clients providing counseling, coaching, and advice to these populations using Person-Centered Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, CBT & DBT approaches. Most importantly, Gabriel likes to place his clients/patients first before everything, meet them where they are with patience, empathy, and non-judgment, and with good attending skills gradually walk with them to where they want to be. Gabriel always believes in the BioPsychoSocioSpiritual model, which means if everything else fails in therapy, the is a higher power, agreater ourselves that we turn to, who can bring us all to healing through prayers.
Dr. Gabriel likes working with co-occurring clients providing counseling, coaching, and advice to these populations using Person-Centered Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, CBT & DBT approaches. Most importantly, Gabriel likes to place his clients/patients first before everything, meet them where they are with patience, empathy, and non-judgment, and with good attending skills gradually walk with them to where they want to be. Gabriel always believes in the BioPsychoSocioSpiritual model, which means if everything else fails in therapy, the is a higher power, agreater ourselves that we turn to, who can bring us all to healing through prayers.
(973) 834-7065 View (973) 834-7065
Photo of I Barry Bell, Psychologist in Cumberland County, NJ
I Barry Bell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to discover the factors in our lives that keep us from being fully alive and happy. People make decisions to enter therapy for various reasons: relationship problems, feeling sad or fearful, or simply the feeling that something is amiss in their lives. In my approach to the therapeutic process, I provide a safe, positive environment in which to explore your present difficulty. Together we will pursue a variety of approaches ranging from Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral, Gestalt, Psychodynamic to Hypnosis with Guided Imagery, depending upon what is best suited to your particular difficulty.
Psychotherapy is an opportunity to discover the factors in our lives that keep us from being fully alive and happy. People make decisions to enter therapy for various reasons: relationship problems, feeling sad or fearful, or simply the feeling that something is amiss in their lives. In my approach to the therapeutic process, I provide a safe, positive environment in which to explore your present difficulty. Together we will pursue a variety of approaches ranging from Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral, Gestalt, Psychodynamic to Hypnosis with Guided Imagery, depending upon what is best suited to your particular difficulty.
(856) 494-6097 View (856) 494-6097
Photo of Maureen K Gallagher, MS.,LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Maureen K Gallagher, MS.,LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
I am a licensed psychotherapist in private practice I specialize in individual and group therapy with postgraduate training in psychoanalysis, CBT and Gestalt. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist. Together we can create solutions to any life stressors that may be impacting you. My work focuses on helping clients with a range of issues, such as grief therapy, depression, anxiety, life/role transition, interpersonal conflicts, anger management and substance abuse. I will provide you with the tools needed to cultivate change and personal growth through developing awareness around the mind-body connection.
I am a licensed psychotherapist in private practice I specialize in individual and group therapy with postgraduate training in psychoanalysis, CBT and Gestalt. I am a dedicated and compassionate therapist. Together we can create solutions to any life stressors that may be impacting you. My work focuses on helping clients with a range of issues, such as grief therapy, depression, anxiety, life/role transition, interpersonal conflicts, anger management and substance abuse. I will provide you with the tools needed to cultivate change and personal growth through developing awareness around the mind-body connection.
(646) 663-4266 View (646) 663-4266
Photo of Patricia Ann Watts-Scheffel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Patricia Ann Watts-Scheffel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Milford, NJ 08848
I have post graduate training in Gestalt Therapy and a certificate for Creative Arts Therapy.
I believe we are all born whole and therefore inherently know our own truth. Through years of external judgements and internal doubts, we lose this connection. Healing comes from within. My role is to facilitate the reconnection with your core self to promote healthier, satisfying relationships within yourself, family friends and the world at large.
I have post graduate training in Gestalt Therapy and a certificate for Creative Arts Therapy.
I believe we are all born whole and therefore inherently know our own truth. Through years of external judgements and internal doubts, we lose this connection. Healing comes from within. My role is to facilitate the reconnection with your core self to promote healthier, satisfying relationships within yourself, family friends and the world at large.
(844) 769-2824 View (844) 769-2824
Photo of Cranbury Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Cranbury Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cranbury, NJ 08512
I completed post-graduate training in Gestalt therapy, EMDR, EFT, and hypnosis.
In my professional work I have learned to empathize deeply and to make observations and interpretations based on years of accumulated clinical knowledge and experience. While my professional training has been invaluable, my clients (and my colleagues, too) have been the most extraordinary teachers of life and healing. Through my work I have learned to be more open and compassionate and more fully human. This enables me to be a more effective facilitator in the healing process of psychotherapy. It is always a privilege to do emotional healing work with another human being--both of us are enriched.
I completed post-graduate training in Gestalt therapy, EMDR, EFT, and hypnosis.
In my professional work I have learned to empathize deeply and to make observations and interpretations based on years of accumulated clinical knowledge and experience. While my professional training has been invaluable, my clients (and my colleagues, too) have been the most extraordinary teachers of life and healing. Through my work I have learned to be more open and compassionate and more fully human. This enables me to be a more effective facilitator in the healing process of psychotherapy. It is always a privilege to do emotional healing work with another human being--both of us are enriched.
(856) 340-4453 x10 View (856) 340-4453 x10
Photo of Matthew Whaley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Matthew Whaley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, QGT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bradley Beach, NJ 07720
org); certified as a Gestalt Therapist and on the Faculty at the Gestalt Center for Psychotherapy & Training (gestaltnyc.
I work with diverse clients and issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and relationships (including LGBT). Our behavior patterns are our "creative adjustments" to life circumstances that were unresolvable with the resources we had at the time. I facilitate a compassionate self-awareness of "how" we do those patterns, looking to build the resources needed in the present. Change requires a new "experience" in the present and self-compassion is the best predictor of a good therapeutic outcome. Let's focus less on what "isn't" working in your life and more on accessing and building upon what "is" working NOW.
org); certified as a Gestalt Therapist and on the Faculty at the Gestalt Center for Psychotherapy & Training (gestaltnyc.
I work with diverse clients and issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction and relationships (including LGBT). Our behavior patterns are our "creative adjustments" to life circumstances that were unresolvable with the resources we had at the time. I facilitate a compassionate self-awareness of "how" we do those patterns, looking to build the resources needed in the present. Change requires a new "experience" in the present and self-compassion is the best predictor of a good therapeutic outcome. Let's focus less on what "isn't" working in your life and more on accessing and building upon what "is" working NOW.
(646) 663-5924 View (646) 663-5924
Photo of Nicole Owenburg, Counselor in Cumberland County, NJ
Nicole Owenburg
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Hazlet, NJ 07730
My practice is rooted in Existentialism, and I combine techniques pulled from a variety of evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, strength-based, mindfulness, ecotherapy and Gestalt therapy.
Maintaining our mental wellness is just as important as maintaining our physical wellness. Perhaps you are facing a major loss or are having trouble finding motivation to carry out daily tasks of life. For some, there has been a major life event which has left you feeling helpless or without direction. For any person coming into my office, my goal is to create a space which is calming, open, and safe. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief and loss, low motivation, anxiety, depression, and major life changes.
My practice is rooted in Existentialism, and I combine techniques pulled from a variety of evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, strength-based, mindfulness, ecotherapy and Gestalt therapy.
Maintaining our mental wellness is just as important as maintaining our physical wellness. Perhaps you are facing a major loss or are having trouble finding motivation to carry out daily tasks of life. For some, there has been a major life event which has left you feeling helpless or without direction. For any person coming into my office, my goal is to create a space which is calming, open, and safe. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing grief and loss, low motivation, anxiety, depression, and major life changes.
(732) 860-2562 View (732) 860-2562
Photo of Roberta Pughe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Roberta Pughe
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
My practice includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Systems Theory, Gestalt Therapy/Theory, Spirituality/Mindfulness Modalities.
As a seasoned PhD psychotherapist (AAMFT Clinical Fellow) and published author, I combine 36 years experience in private practice (including training & supervision of other clinicians) with a broad range of expertise in varying modalities. This multidisciplinary model helps facilitate steady movement and lasting healing. My work is in-depth, integrative and transformative. My unique style incorporates philosophies that are both practical and motivational. You will learn to listen to your authentic voice and to trust this guidance, gaining inner strength, clarity and confidence, effecting fruitful results in your life. Reach out.
My practice includes: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Systems Theory, Gestalt Therapy/Theory, Spirituality/Mindfulness Modalities.
As a seasoned PhD psychotherapist (AAMFT Clinical Fellow) and published author, I combine 36 years experience in private practice (including training & supervision of other clinicians) with a broad range of expertise in varying modalities. This multidisciplinary model helps facilitate steady movement and lasting healing. My work is in-depth, integrative and transformative. My unique style incorporates philosophies that are both practical and motivational. You will learn to listen to your authentic voice and to trust this guidance, gaining inner strength, clarity and confidence, effecting fruitful results in your life. Reach out.
(609) 422-5436 View (609) 422-5436
Photo of Christineann Giannakaris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Christineann Giannakaris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NJ 08048
I am dedicated to helping individuals foster a new perspective of life opportunities by using evidenced-based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Gestalt Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Structural Therapy.
Life can present with unexpected twist and turns causing a person to feel overwhelmed and defeated. You are not alone. I can help you achieve the inner peace you are searching for through equipping you with the appropriate tools to reach your potential. My name is Christineann Giannakaris and I have over 10 years of dedicated service working with adolescents, adult, and families as a Licensed Social Worker. Currently I am employed with Creative Change Counseling, Inc. for two years as licensed clinician and mental health outpatient program supervisor.
I am dedicated to helping individuals foster a new perspective of life opportunities by using evidenced-based treatment approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational Gestalt Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Structural Therapy.
Life can present with unexpected twist and turns causing a person to feel overwhelmed and defeated. You are not alone. I can help you achieve the inner peace you are searching for through equipping you with the appropriate tools to reach your potential. My name is Christineann Giannakaris and I have over 10 years of dedicated service working with adolescents, adult, and families as a Licensed Social Worker. Currently I am employed with Creative Change Counseling, Inc. for two years as licensed clinician and mental health outpatient program supervisor.
(609) 798-7274 View (609) 798-7274
Photo of Sarina A Mulleavey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cumberland County, NJ
Sarina A Mulleavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with men and women ages 18 years-old to older adults who are navigating life’s challenges, who feel blue, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, angry, who are not able to concentrate in college or at the workplace, who are unsettled due to their trauma and utilize bad coping skills. I help individuals grow while they feel stuck and shut down. I provide various forms of therapeutic treatment, not just talk therapy. My specialized experience and trainings are broad from: Gottman Marriage/Couples L1 L2 Psycho-education, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Trauma, Gestalt , Hypnosis, Yoga, and Holistic Treatments.
I am passionate about working with men and women ages 18 years-old to older adults who are navigating life’s challenges, who feel blue, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, angry, who are not able to concentrate in college or at the workplace, who are unsettled due to their trauma and utilize bad coping skills. I help individuals grow while they feel stuck and shut down. I provide various forms of therapeutic treatment, not just talk therapy. My specialized experience and trainings are broad from: Gottman Marriage/Couples L1 L2 Psycho-education, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Trauma, Gestalt , Hypnosis, Yoga, and Holistic Treatments.
(848) 224-6305 View (848) 224-6305
Photo of Roseann Mancini, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumberland County, NJ
Roseann Mancini
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I have been practicing in the field for ten years. I have a person centered approach to therapy, mixed with cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and Gestalt therapy when it is called for. I do mental health counseling, addiction counseling, couples counseling, individual counseling, and marriage and family counseling. I see clients of all ages from children to senior citizens. As we have to continue to change and adapt to a new way of counseling, I am including tele therapy in my practice.
I have been practicing in the field for ten years. I have a person centered approach to therapy, mixed with cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing and Gestalt therapy when it is called for. I do mental health counseling, addiction counseling, couples counseling, individual counseling, and marriage and family counseling. I see clients of all ages from children to senior citizens. As we have to continue to change and adapt to a new way of counseling, I am including tele therapy in my practice.
(856) 617-5196 View (856) 617-5196
Photo of Mind, Body, and Spirit, through Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cumberland County, NJ
Mind, Body, and Spirit, through Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054  (Online Only)
Nicole's passion is assisting clients in reaching their personal goals for their wellness, while using a Humanistic-Existential approach, including: Existential, Person-Centered, and Gestalt Theory.
Nicole assists clients in identifying their meaning and purpose in life while discovering their authentic self (who they really are.) In her practice she uses a combined approach of Mindfulness and Holistic therapy, whereby clients find: 1.) greater compassion for self and others 2.) develop their self-esteem 3.) increase their awareness and acceptance of the here and now 4) and improve their communication style. She is committed to helping clients alleviate the anguish created by depression and anxiety through exploration of stress, anger, trauma, grief and loss, all in the service of building greater resiliency toward a more rewarding life.
Nicole's passion is assisting clients in reaching their personal goals for their wellness, while using a Humanistic-Existential approach, including: Existential, Person-Centered, and Gestalt Theory.
Nicole assists clients in identifying their meaning and purpose in life while discovering their authentic self (who they really are.) In her practice she uses a combined approach of Mindfulness and Holistic therapy, whereby clients find: 1.) greater compassion for self and others 2.) develop their self-esteem 3.) increase their awareness and acceptance of the here and now 4) and improve their communication style. She is committed to helping clients alleviate the anguish created by depression and anxiety through exploration of stress, anger, trauma, grief and loss, all in the service of building greater resiliency toward a more rewarding life.
(609) 604-7265 View (609) 604-7265

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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.