Gestalt Therapists in Middlesex, NJ

Photo of Eleonora Tavella, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eleonora Tavella
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middlesex, NJ 08846  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself constantly feeling anxious and spending a lot of time overthinking? Are you struggling in your career or relationships? Maybe you don't feel good enough and identify as an over-achiever? Are you going through a big life change or loss, and feeling completely overwhelmed? You’re not alone. I am passionate about working with adults with anxiety, self-esteem and major life changes. My belief is that our relationship with ourselves deeply effects how we navigate day to day stressors and major life transitions. You are your biggest asset.
Do you find yourself constantly feeling anxious and spending a lot of time overthinking? Are you struggling in your career or relationships? Maybe you don't feel good enough and identify as an over-achiever? Are you going through a big life change or loss, and feeling completely overwhelmed? You’re not alone. I am passionate about working with adults with anxiety, self-esteem and major life changes. My belief is that our relationship with ourselves deeply effects how we navigate day to day stressors and major life transitions. You are your biggest asset.
(732) 889-7121 View (732) 889-7121
Photo of Joanne S Reynolds, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne S Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Middlesex, NJ 08846
Being a therapist for twenty plus years, it always fascinates me to watch someone overcome their difficulties and find peace and joy in their life. I hope you will allow me to assist you in your journey! I have experience working with individuals, couples and families and have been trained in a wide variety of techniques. I utilize an eclectic approach and the methods are driven by your needs. I have a direct, nurturing approach and feel that a good relationship between us is crucial to the therapeutic process.
Being a therapist for twenty plus years, it always fascinates me to watch someone overcome their difficulties and find peace and joy in their life. I hope you will allow me to assist you in your journey! I have experience working with individuals, couples and families and have been trained in a wide variety of techniques. I utilize an eclectic approach and the methods are driven by your needs. I have a direct, nurturing approach and feel that a good relationship between us is crucial to the therapeutic process.
(201) 306-3578 View (201) 306-3578
Photo of Roselande Pierre Louis, MA, LAC, Counselor
Roselande Pierre Louis
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middlesex, NJ 08846
We're accepting new clients! Is life becoming overwhelming, troublesome and your concerns are too much to tolerate? Sometimes our struggles can cause so much burden that we isolate, get trapped in our feelings and pick up on unhelpful coping methods. Sometimes it can be too much to turn to others and we may feel even more alone or even afraid to ask for help. I’m here to offer support. No matter how big or small the concern, all your worries are valid. I offer an open and comforting environment to help maintain your well being and work through the burdens. I hope to help you overcome your struggles. Reach out for more!
We're accepting new clients! Is life becoming overwhelming, troublesome and your concerns are too much to tolerate? Sometimes our struggles can cause so much burden that we isolate, get trapped in our feelings and pick up on unhelpful coping methods. Sometimes it can be too much to turn to others and we may feel even more alone or even afraid to ask for help. I’m here to offer support. No matter how big or small the concern, all your worries are valid. I offer an open and comforting environment to help maintain your well being and work through the burdens. I hope to help you overcome your struggles. Reach out for more!
(973) 949-0794 View (973) 949-0794
Photo of Rev. Carrie May Price-Knospe, MA, Lic, Clinic, Pastor, Counsel, Pastoral Counselor
Rev. Carrie May Price-Knospe
Pastoral Counselor, MA, Lic, Clinic, Pastor, Counsel
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middlesex, NJ 08846
If you are searching for a counselor who will help you heal and be free from anxiety , depression , addictions or a strong faith based counselor to help you navigate through your current situation with wisdom and tools , I am the one for you . I have been counseling since 2009 in an array of different venues from trauma centered therapy to addiction homes for men and women . Our counsel is effective and unique because we use inner healing , therapy and intense spiritual freedom work . I am the counselor you will get results for you, your Marraige and family will be changed for generations.
If you are searching for a counselor who will help you heal and be free from anxiety , depression , addictions or a strong faith based counselor to help you navigate through your current situation with wisdom and tools , I am the one for you . I have been counseling since 2009 in an array of different venues from trauma centered therapy to addiction homes for men and women . Our counsel is effective and unique because we use inner healing , therapy and intense spiritual freedom work . I am the counselor you will get results for you, your Marraige and family will be changed for generations.
(908) 325-5169 View (908) 325-5169

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Matthew Donohue - Matthew Donohue, BA, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Donohue
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dunellen, NJ 08812  (Online Only)
I operate under the theoretical background of Fritz Perls Gestalt Therapy, as well as Carl Rogers, (Humanistic Therapy).
The price of therapy should not be anxiety provoking. Are you wrestling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Is your consumption of alcohol becoming a problem? As we work together in therapy, we can uncover the reasons for these emotions and behaviors. Sometimes these maladaptive coping mechanisms can stem from past trauma or deeper wounds. I am committed to working with you on your journey to become the best version of yourself.
I operate under the theoretical background of Fritz Perls Gestalt Therapy, as well as Carl Rogers, (Humanistic Therapy).
The price of therapy should not be anxiety provoking. Are you wrestling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Is your consumption of alcohol becoming a problem? As we work together in therapy, we can uncover the reasons for these emotions and behaviors. Sometimes these maladaptive coping mechanisms can stem from past trauma or deeper wounds. I am committed to working with you on your journey to become the best version of yourself.
(732) 408-6855 View (732) 408-6855
Photo of Larendee Roos - Miracle Activation Center, OMC, CHT, Pastoral Counselor
Miracle Activation Center
Pastoral Counselor, OMC, CHT
Verified Verified
New Brunswick, NJ 08902
We use cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, internal family systems, and hypnotherapy modalities.
We have a four-fold mission: To be a channel to eradicate spiritual and physical hunger, to make the invisible visible, to bring clarity to every situation, and to bring unifying solutions to all individuals and organizations. Through education and counseling, our clients receive practical tools to navigate all relationships in their life from a place of compassion and strength. By inviting each person's Inner Guide to lead the way, our client's lives are transformed as they develop healthier Self-identities that ensure healing from grief, loss, early childhood trauma, addiction, and improved personal and work relationships.
We use cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, internal family systems, and hypnotherapy modalities.
We have a four-fold mission: To be a channel to eradicate spiritual and physical hunger, to make the invisible visible, to bring clarity to every situation, and to bring unifying solutions to all individuals and organizations. Through education and counseling, our clients receive practical tools to navigate all relationships in their life from a place of compassion and strength. By inviting each person's Inner Guide to lead the way, our client's lives are transformed as they develop healthier Self-identities that ensure healing from grief, loss, early childhood trauma, addiction, and improved personal and work relationships.
(626) 322-2856 View (626) 322-2856
Photo of Sarina A Mulleavey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarina A Mulleavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
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 Wendy Alley, MPS, LPC, CHHC, AADP, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy Alley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPS, LPC, CHHC, AADP, SAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
I am experienced in traditional western medicine, expressive therapies, gestalt, and holistic approaches.
Have you been trying to make a change, but feeling stuck? Maybe that job you're in is no longer inspiring, your relationship is no longer fulfilling, or there's a behavior or a habit you just wish you could stop. Trying to make these kinds of changes alone is frustrating, and often leaves us spinning our wheels, but stuck in that same place we know so well. If you sometimes find yourself overthinking, repeating old patterns, and/or getting caught up in self-criticism, you're not alone! Having a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental, skilled therapist can help you remember your inherent strengths, and regain the balance you seek.
I am experienced in traditional western medicine, expressive therapies, gestalt, and holistic approaches.
Have you been trying to make a change, but feeling stuck? Maybe that job you're in is no longer inspiring, your relationship is no longer fulfilling, or there's a behavior or a habit you just wish you could stop. Trying to make these kinds of changes alone is frustrating, and often leaves us spinning our wheels, but stuck in that same place we know so well. If you sometimes find yourself overthinking, repeating old patterns, and/or getting caught up in self-criticism, you're not alone! Having a warm, compassionate, nonjudgmental, skilled therapist can help you remember your inherent strengths, and regain the balance you seek.
(732) 391-4827 View (732) 391-4827
Photo of Chery M Jones, LAC, NCC, CSC, MA, Counselor
Chery M Jones
Counselor, LAC, NCC, CSC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07091
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gestalt Therapy and Art Therapy.
Sometime we need guidance to help navigate through life and make healthy decisions in our relationships with others. It is possible to make adjustments, and live a more fulfilling and rewarding life. Counseling is provided to individuals and families. My clients learn to develop healthy coping skills, thriving interpersonal relationships & build emotional resiliency through mental health, skill acquisition and psychoeducation. I’m here for you.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gestalt Therapy and Art Therapy.
Sometime we need guidance to help navigate through life and make healthy decisions in our relationships with others. It is possible to make adjustments, and live a more fulfilling and rewarding life. Counseling is provided to individuals and families. My clients learn to develop healthy coping skills, thriving interpersonal relationships & build emotional resiliency through mental health, skill acquisition and psychoeducation. I’m here for you.
(973) 406-4336 View (973) 406-4336
Photo of Jennifer Laura Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Laura Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fanwood, NJ 07023
My practice includes folks of all ages/stages from young children to those entering the third third of life, I work with people who seek to know themselves more deeply & who want to uncover patterns & ways of being that no longer serve them. I especially love high conflict family work & working with parent/child connections. I utilize art, sandtray,movement & play as I see fit. I find couples therapy to be a potent vehicle of change for both the individual and for the couple. I blend Non-Violent Communication, IFS, Synergetic Play Therapy, Gestalt & Radical Aliveness in all my sessions. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
My practice includes folks of all ages/stages from young children to those entering the third third of life, I work with people who seek to know themselves more deeply & who want to uncover patterns & ways of being that no longer serve them. I especially love high conflict family work & working with parent/child connections. I utilize art, sandtray,movement & play as I see fit. I find couples therapy to be a potent vehicle of change for both the individual and for the couple. I blend Non-Violent Communication, IFS, Synergetic Play Therapy, Gestalt & Radical Aliveness in all my sessions. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
(908) 854-0239 View (908) 854-0239
Photo of Shesha Dave, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shesha Dave
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Basking Ridge, NJ 07920
My experience in the field has helped me find my niche, especially with utilizing various modalities as Jungian, Gestalt, Cognitive and relational approaches.
My clients tell me that I have a compassionate and warm presence. I strive to cultivate a safe space that encourages self expression and enables my clients to address the issues they are currently facing. I have been told that I provide a non judge mental space which helps support clients on their journey towards becoming the self they want to be. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certifications in supervising LSW’S. My clinical expertise is in general mental health, trauma and addiction. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings as Executive Director and direct care.
My experience in the field has helped me find my niche, especially with utilizing various modalities as Jungian, Gestalt, Cognitive and relational approaches.
My clients tell me that I have a compassionate and warm presence. I strive to cultivate a safe space that encourages self expression and enables my clients to address the issues they are currently facing. I have been told that I provide a non judge mental space which helps support clients on their journey towards becoming the self they want to be. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and certifications in supervising LSW’S. My clinical expertise is in general mental health, trauma and addiction. I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings as Executive Director and direct care.
(973) 846-1849 View (973) 846-1849
Photo of Stanley George Malkin, PhD, Psychologist
Stanley George Malkin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Watchung, NJ 07069
I am a psychologist in practice for 30 years.I have a diverse clinical practice working with adults, adolescents, couples and families.I am an experienced psychotherapist with expertise in psychodynamic, cognitive, gestalt, existential approaches. This allows me to tailor my counseling to the specific needs of each person. I was trained to treat TMS by world renowned Dr. John Sarno and Dr. Arlene Feinblatt at NYU Medical Center/The Rusk Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine. I counsel people with anxiety, psychophysical pain/TMS, depression, stress and trauma. I help with discovering or re-discovering their inner needs and with bringing those needs to fruition.
I am a psychologist in practice for 30 years.I have a diverse clinical practice working with adults, adolescents, couples and families.I am an experienced psychotherapist with expertise in psychodynamic, cognitive, gestalt, existential approaches. This allows me to tailor my counseling to the specific needs of each person. I was trained to treat TMS by world renowned Dr. John Sarno and Dr. Arlene Feinblatt at NYU Medical Center/The Rusk Institute for Rehabilitation Medicine. I counsel people with anxiety, psychophysical pain/TMS, depression, stress and trauma. I help with discovering or re-discovering their inner needs and with bringing those needs to fruition.
(908) 836-6014 View (908) 836-6014
Photo of Sharona Anderson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharona Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
South Plainfield, NJ 07080
Are you feeling overwhelmed, or disconnected in your personal or relational life? Do you find yourself struggling with past trauma, communication issues, or emotional pain? I understand how challenging it can be to navigate these feelings, and I’m here to support. My name is Sharona Anderson, and I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and families toward healing and growth. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experiences of pain and healing. This personal insight drives my empathetic approach to therapy, where I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your experience.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, or disconnected in your personal or relational life? Do you find yourself struggling with past trauma, communication issues, or emotional pain? I understand how challenging it can be to navigate these feelings, and I’m here to support. My name is Sharona Anderson, and I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and families toward healing and growth. My journey to becoming a therapist began with my own experiences of pain and healing. This personal insight drives my empathetic approach to therapy, where I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore your experience.
(908) 247-4451 View (908) 247-4451
Photo of Mark L Amoroso - AGCC - Mark Amoroso-Indivdual therapy.       , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
AGCC - Mark Amoroso-Indivdual therapy.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Colonia, NJ 07067
Have other therapists failed you? did you fail to make a connection? If you answered yes you are looking at the right profile. Life affects us all, we have good and bad experiences. At times our issues may affect our ability to get the most out of life. I provide a safe non-judgmental environment, allowing you to express yourself while offering feed-back. I am a firm believer that effective communication is essential to overcoming many challenges. I also work with clients struggling with anger management and am willing to work with people who are court-mandated. No offering virtual Video sessions online.
Have other therapists failed you? did you fail to make a connection? If you answered yes you are looking at the right profile. Life affects us all, we have good and bad experiences. At times our issues may affect our ability to get the most out of life. I provide a safe non-judgmental environment, allowing you to express yourself while offering feed-back. I am a firm believer that effective communication is essential to overcoming many challenges. I also work with clients struggling with anger management and am willing to work with people who are court-mandated. No offering virtual Video sessions online.
(908) 293-9410 View (908) 293-9410
Photo of Karen Ann Owen-Jiménez, PsyD, Psychologist
Karen Ann Owen-Jiménez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Brunswick, NJ 08902  (Online Only)
Hello and thank you for checking out my personal information space on psychology today. I am a Bilingual Clinical Psychologist originally from the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. I have over 13 years of experience helping my patients understand their emotions and their personal situations in order to work with them to become better versions of themselves. My education, training and experience in the field of clinical psychology has provided me with a solid background in individual, child, adolescent, couples and family therapy.
Hello and thank you for checking out my personal information space on psychology today. I am a Bilingual Clinical Psychologist originally from the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. I have over 13 years of experience helping my patients understand their emotions and their personal situations in order to work with them to become better versions of themselves. My education, training and experience in the field of clinical psychology has provided me with a solid background in individual, child, adolescent, couples and family therapy.
(908) 224-5010 View (908) 224-5010
Photo of Lauren Taylor - Abundant Life Counseling Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abundant Life Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Brunswick, NJ 08902  (Online Only)
My name is Lauren! I am so pleased to see you taking the next important steps in living an abundant life. I have been actively engaged in clinical work for 10 years. My therapeutic approach is supportive, detail focused and empowering. Collaboration, patience, empathy and support are key elements to a successful therapeutic relationship. People appreciate being heard and seen. Through exploration, understanding and gentle challenge, my hope is that individuals can grasp the abundant life they deserve and work hard to maintain.
My name is Lauren! I am so pleased to see you taking the next important steps in living an abundant life. I have been actively engaged in clinical work for 10 years. My therapeutic approach is supportive, detail focused and empowering. Collaboration, patience, empathy and support are key elements to a successful therapeutic relationship. People appreciate being heard and seen. Through exploration, understanding and gentle challenge, my hope is that individuals can grasp the abundant life they deserve and work hard to maintain.
(551) 313-9557 View (551) 313-9557
Photo of Philip Andrew Libby, PhD ABD, MA, LP, NCPsyA, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Philip Andrew Libby
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PhD ABD, MA, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Highland Park, NJ 08904
Have you been wanting to make meaningful changes in your life but feel hesitant to start therapy? I know how courageous making this move is, and provide a relaxed, supportive atmosphere as you explore your emotional life. I partner with you to identify your goals for personal growth. Together we create a safe space for you to clarify patterns of behavior and thinking that may be bogging you down. We can look at repeated sources of disappointment or dissatisfaction so that you can grow away from them and into a more vibrant relation to yourself, others, and the world.
Have you been wanting to make meaningful changes in your life but feel hesitant to start therapy? I know how courageous making this move is, and provide a relaxed, supportive atmosphere as you explore your emotional life. I partner with you to identify your goals for personal growth. Together we create a safe space for you to clarify patterns of behavior and thinking that may be bogging you down. We can look at repeated sources of disappointment or dissatisfaction so that you can grow away from them and into a more vibrant relation to yourself, others, and the world.
(848) 253-3583 View (848) 253-3583
Photo of Kenneth Marcus Lipman, MEd, LPC, CH, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenneth Marcus Lipman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CH, ACS
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
I have been in practice for over 30 years, working with couples, individuals, children and families. I use many therapeutic tools depending on my clients' individual needs. These include: helping clients look at the negative things they tell themselves; discover how their problem(s) arose, which often ends a cycle of shame and self-blame; learn the interpersonal skills they lack and then devise homework assignments to practice new skills. I often use hypnosis to address issues on a deeper level than our conscious will. Finally I help my couples and families to understand and change destructive patterns of interaction.
I have been in practice for over 30 years, working with couples, individuals, children and families. I use many therapeutic tools depending on my clients' individual needs. These include: helping clients look at the negative things they tell themselves; discover how their problem(s) arose, which often ends a cycle of shame and self-blame; learn the interpersonal skills they lack and then devise homework assignments to practice new skills. I often use hypnosis to address issues on a deeper level than our conscious will. Finally I help my couples and families to understand and change destructive patterns of interaction.
(908) 420-0897 View (908) 420-0897
Photo of Suzi Millar, PsyD, Psychologist
Suzi Millar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerset, NJ 08873  (Online Only)
There are times in life when situations, circumstances and emotions feel overwhelming. I understand that making the decision to seek support during these difficult times can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Whether you are seeking help for your child, your family or yourself, I am here to support you and walk you through the process to ease any anxiety it may cause. My approach to therapy is client centered, where we work collaboratively on your goals. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, transition and adjustment, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and family discord.
There are times in life when situations, circumstances and emotions feel overwhelming. I understand that making the decision to seek support during these difficult times can feel overwhelming and intimidating. Whether you are seeking help for your child, your family or yourself, I am here to support you and walk you through the process to ease any anxiety it may cause. My approach to therapy is client centered, where we work collaboratively on your goals. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, transition and adjustment, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and family discord.
(848) 246-2299 View (848) 246-2299
Photo of Bijay K. Minhas, LCSW, MSW, DBT, Coach, CCDP/AP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bijay K. Minhas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, DBT, Coach, CCDP/AP
Verified Verified
Edison, NJ 08817  (Online Only)
Struggling with mental illness and deep emotional pain can be overwhelming finding the right therapist to help you should not be. So if your trying to manage stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, difficult relationships or low self confidence, I am here to help you navigate to better health. With a proven track record of working with the most powerful therapy modalities clients not only feel better, they do better. Clients say - 'she connects the dots for you when you are unable to do so for yourself, Thank you for helping me get my life back, I achieved the goals, surpassed expectations. She is gold standard'. Are you ready?
Struggling with mental illness and deep emotional pain can be overwhelming finding the right therapist to help you should not be. So if your trying to manage stress, anxiety, trauma, depression, difficult relationships or low self confidence, I am here to help you navigate to better health. With a proven track record of working with the most powerful therapy modalities clients not only feel better, they do better. Clients say - 'she connects the dots for you when you are unable to do so for yourself, Thank you for helping me get my life back, I achieved the goals, surpassed expectations. She is gold standard'. Are you ready?
(973) 210-7880 View (973) 210-7880
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.