Gestalt Therapists in Kings Park, NY

Photo of Rachel Cunningham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Cunningham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kings Park, NY 11754
TODAY is the day to start improving your emotional wellness. I believe therapy is a vehicle to become emotionally secure, balanced, fulfilled and happy. My promise to you is to create a safe space to unfold, unravel and rebuild. We will explore the sources of negativity in your life and practice coping skills to heal by finding your happiness! Please note, I am a proud member of a practice, Cunningham Counseling Services, and we offer multiple services listed below. Not all ‘specialties’ listed are unique to me but it is my mission to connect you to the best therapist for your healing & happiness!
TODAY is the day to start improving your emotional wellness. I believe therapy is a vehicle to become emotionally secure, balanced, fulfilled and happy. My promise to you is to create a safe space to unfold, unravel and rebuild. We will explore the sources of negativity in your life and practice coping skills to heal by finding your happiness! Please note, I am a proud member of a practice, Cunningham Counseling Services, and we offer multiple services listed below. Not all ‘specialties’ listed are unique to me but it is my mission to connect you to the best therapist for your healing & happiness!
(631) 309-2126 View (631) 309-2126
Photo of Dani Cleary, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dani Cleary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kings Park, NY 11754  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Dani Cleary and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), based in Long Island, New York, and working with clients via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and persons 65 years and older. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and grief, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a Psychodynamic Approach, and Strength-Based Perspective. I have found that my approach and style are a good fit for a broad range of ages, as I typically treat adolescents to 65 years and older populations. As broad as those ages are, comes the broad range of conditions and transitions in life.
Hello! My name is Dani Cleary and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), based in Long Island, New York, and working with clients via telehealth. I work with adolescents, adults, and persons 65 years and older. I specialize in anxiety, depression, stress, and grief, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, a Psychodynamic Approach, and Strength-Based Perspective. I have found that my approach and style are a good fit for a broad range of ages, as I typically treat adolescents to 65 years and older populations. As broad as those ages are, comes the broad range of conditions and transitions in life.
(646) 722-6809 View (646) 722-6809
Photo of Brandon Tosov, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Tosov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kings Park, NY 11754
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in many areas including: anxiety disorders, depression, alcohol/substance use disorders, addiction, relationship concerns, stress management, and self-esteem issues. I am well versed in technology and games to facilitate in understanding and managing this ever-changing world.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in many areas including: anxiety disorders, depression, alcohol/substance use disorders, addiction, relationship concerns, stress management, and self-esteem issues. I am well versed in technology and games to facilitate in understanding and managing this ever-changing world.
(631) 515-7910 View (631) 515-7910

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mindy R Bresky, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindy R Bresky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenlawn, NY 11740
By integrating various therapeutic modalities including, gestalt Therapy and mindfulness practices, I will tailor our work together to address your needs and goals.
With over two decades of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in anxiety, grief, depression, and addiction, I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment for my clients. Drawing from my extensive training in The Gestalt Institute, I understand the profound impact of the therapeutic relationship on the healing process. In my practice, I place a strong emphasis on fostering a personal connection with each client. I believe that this relationship is not only important but fundamental to facilitating meaningful change Wherever you are in your journey, I am dedicated to supporting you.
By integrating various therapeutic modalities including, gestalt Therapy and mindfulness practices, I will tailor our work together to address your needs and goals.
With over two decades of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in anxiety, grief, depression, and addiction, I prioritize creating a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment for my clients. Drawing from my extensive training in The Gestalt Institute, I understand the profound impact of the therapeutic relationship on the healing process. In my practice, I place a strong emphasis on fostering a personal connection with each client. I believe that this relationship is not only important but fundamental to facilitating meaningful change Wherever you are in your journey, I am dedicated to supporting you.
(516) 517-0694 View (516) 517-0694
Photo of Joseph DeNoyior, MHC-LP, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joseph DeNoyior
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP, NCC
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
Joseph is a committed mental health counselor who aims to promote understanding, comfort, and self-confidence within his clients. He provides a compassionate and client-centered approach during sessions. Joseph utilizes a blend of cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, and motivational therapeutic techniques to create a safe, confidential, and comfortable space for his clients. As a therapist, Joseph will work with you to formulate a personalized treatment plan to foster an open conversation and promote change. Apart from being a mental health provider, Joseph is a trained Opera singer and music composer. He also loves to cook!
Joseph is a committed mental health counselor who aims to promote understanding, comfort, and self-confidence within his clients. He provides a compassionate and client-centered approach during sessions. Joseph utilizes a blend of cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, and motivational therapeutic techniques to create a safe, confidential, and comfortable space for his clients. As a therapist, Joseph will work with you to formulate a personalized treatment plan to foster an open conversation and promote change. Apart from being a mental health provider, Joseph is a trained Opera singer and music composer. He also loves to cook!
(631) 503-0845 View (631) 503-0845
Photo of Lindsay Reynolds, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Lindsay Reynolds
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Selden, NY 11784
I utilize Gestalt, DBT, Somatic processing and Guided Drawing (bilateral) techniques alongside an art therapy approach to make a personalized plan.
My clients are adults who have been avoiding or "dissociating" but now want to understand their emotions and feelings so that they can feel prepared and more fulfilled. They have experienced or are currently going through life challenges such as: surgery or illness, grief & loss (passing of a loved one, divorce, breakup, moving, chronic illness, etc.) a traumatic experience or childhood trauma, mood regulation (anxiety, depression, resentment, etc.), conflict (family dynamics, friendship or relationship, work stress, etc.) and building their identity.
I utilize Gestalt, DBT, Somatic processing and Guided Drawing (bilateral) techniques alongside an art therapy approach to make a personalized plan.
My clients are adults who have been avoiding or "dissociating" but now want to understand their emotions and feelings so that they can feel prepared and more fulfilled. They have experienced or are currently going through life challenges such as: surgery or illness, grief & loss (passing of a loved one, divorce, breakup, moving, chronic illness, etc.) a traumatic experience or childhood trauma, mood regulation (anxiety, depression, resentment, etc.), conflict (family dynamics, friendship or relationship, work stress, etc.) and building their identity.
(631) 892-2387 View (631) 892-2387
Photo of Caren Jacobs, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caren Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenlawn, NY 11740
As an EMDRIA-Accredited Certified Therapist and Certified Gestalt Therapist, I will help you identify and resolve the root cause of your symptoms.
Feeling stuck? Tired of the negative narratives that constantly play in your head? If you suffer from anxiety or trauma, but are finding it difficult to seek help, I am here for you. With over 35 years experience working with those suffering from anxiety, trauma, depression, and grief due to loss. I will listen to your pain and offer guidance, support and practical solutions. When you find the right person to share your darkest pain and shame, remarkable transformations can occur. Let me assist you in your healing journey. Together, we can discover where you may be blocked. You deserve to feel joy again! There is hope! I can help!
As an EMDRIA-Accredited Certified Therapist and Certified Gestalt Therapist, I will help you identify and resolve the root cause of your symptoms.
Feeling stuck? Tired of the negative narratives that constantly play in your head? If you suffer from anxiety or trauma, but are finding it difficult to seek help, I am here for you. With over 35 years experience working with those suffering from anxiety, trauma, depression, and grief due to loss. I will listen to your pain and offer guidance, support and practical solutions. When you find the right person to share your darkest pain and shame, remarkable transformations can occur. Let me assist you in your healing journey. Together, we can discover where you may be blocked. You deserve to feel joy again! There is hope! I can help!
(631) 496-1675 View (631) 496-1675
Photo of Michele Frimmer - Awaken to Life Therapy, LP, MSEd, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Awaken to Life Therapy
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP, MSEd
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
I am a Certified Gestalt Therapist and Licensed Art Educator.
It is my intention is to guide you through a process of awakening to who you truly are, so that you may begin to live life with a sense of aliveness, trust, purpose and peace of mind. In our work together we will explore, question and slowly dismantle the blocks to your Authenticity by considering the thoughts and beliefs you hold and the behaviors that have become self-defeating and are no longer serving you. You will become aware and conscious of the movements of your mind and feelings in your present moment experience. You will come to realize that by taking responsibility for what you think, believe and do, you have a choice.
I am a Certified Gestalt Therapist and Licensed Art Educator.
It is my intention is to guide you through a process of awakening to who you truly are, so that you may begin to live life with a sense of aliveness, trust, purpose and peace of mind. In our work together we will explore, question and slowly dismantle the blocks to your Authenticity by considering the thoughts and beliefs you hold and the behaviors that have become self-defeating and are no longer serving you. You will become aware and conscious of the movements of your mind and feelings in your present moment experience. You will come to realize that by taking responsibility for what you think, believe and do, you have a choice.
(631) 519-9904 View (631) 519-9904
Photo of Robert T Popp, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Robert T Popp
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725
We'll work collaboratively on personalized treatment plans, integrating techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy to foster healing and self-discovery.
My ideal client is someone open to embracing change and receptive to new perspectives. If you're seeking to not only manage life's challenges but also to reframe them, you might find our sessions particularly rewarding. My practice welcomes individuals eager to delve into their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and who are committed to setting and achieving specific actionablel goals. Together, we can explore the roots of your challenges and embark on a transformative journey toward personal growth and resilience.
We'll work collaboratively on personalized treatment plans, integrating techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy to foster healing and self-discovery.
My ideal client is someone open to embracing change and receptive to new perspectives. If you're seeking to not only manage life's challenges but also to reframe them, you might find our sessions particularly rewarding. My practice welcomes individuals eager to delve into their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and who are committed to setting and achieving specific actionablel goals. Together, we can explore the roots of your challenges and embark on a transformative journey toward personal growth and resilience.
(631) 519-8144 View (631) 519-8144
Photo of Tiffany Kraft, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffany Kraft
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Greenlawn, NY 11740
Come alongside me, while I welcome you into a space where you can feel safe to explore your feelings and emotions without fear of judgement. I believe life is a journey full of challenges and obstacles. I want to help you navigate through that journey. I utilize an array of therapeutic techniques such as interpersonal therapy, CBT, holistic approach, strength based, trauma focused, and Gestalt therapy. My expertise ranges from my work with children and adolescents to my work with older adults. If you are looking for a supportive, compassionate therapist, I am here to help you!
Come alongside me, while I welcome you into a space where you can feel safe to explore your feelings and emotions without fear of judgement. I believe life is a journey full of challenges and obstacles. I want to help you navigate through that journey. I utilize an array of therapeutic techniques such as interpersonal therapy, CBT, holistic approach, strength based, trauma focused, and Gestalt therapy. My expertise ranges from my work with children and adolescents to my work with older adults. If you are looking for a supportive, compassionate therapist, I am here to help you!
(516) 363-1976 View (516) 363-1976
Photo of Leah Block, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Block
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of methodologies including, CRAFT Coaching, Gestalt Psychotherapy, NonDual Healing and Awakening, the 12 step recovery process, Meditation & Mindfulness and the connection between mind-body-spirit.
The unfolding nature of our lives is a sacred journey and can be trusted. When we know how to listen, engage and trust the wisdom of our own lives, journeys and hearts, we become more ourselves. I view therapy as a process of learning to listen and live life more authentically, from our inner GPS, rather than from others telling us who we are, who we should be and what to think/do/etc. This process is key to life satisfaction as we become the person we were meant to be.
I utilize a variety of methodologies including, CRAFT Coaching, Gestalt Psychotherapy, NonDual Healing and Awakening, the 12 step recovery process, Meditation & Mindfulness and the connection between mind-body-spirit.
The unfolding nature of our lives is a sacred journey and can be trusted. When we know how to listen, engage and trust the wisdom of our own lives, journeys and hearts, we become more ourselves. I view therapy as a process of learning to listen and live life more authentically, from our inner GPS, rather than from others telling us who we are, who we should be and what to think/do/etc. This process is key to life satisfaction as we become the person we were meant to be.
(516) 206-2897 View (516) 206-2897
Photo of Nina Herzog, MFA, MUP, LP, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Nina Herzog
Licensed Psychoanalyst, MFA, MUP, LP
Verified Verified
Stony Brook, NY 11794
My Gestalt and mindfulness training are helpful in supporting and guiding all kinds of relational and internal feelings of dissatisfaction, anxiety or despair.
What if you could walk around this planet with a deep sense (knowing) that everything about you, just as you are, is ok? Truly just fine? You can. Or maybe you're feeling stuck, needing help to galvanize your courage to make a change, to dare to live your very best life? A warm and supportive relationship with the right therapist will help to re-engage and energize your own existing internal resources, the parts of you that are already confident, calm, creative, courageous and compassionate. We can do this work together.
My Gestalt and mindfulness training are helpful in supporting and guiding all kinds of relational and internal feelings of dissatisfaction, anxiety or despair.
What if you could walk around this planet with a deep sense (knowing) that everything about you, just as you are, is ok? Truly just fine? You can. Or maybe you're feeling stuck, needing help to galvanize your courage to make a change, to dare to live your very best life? A warm and supportive relationship with the right therapist will help to re-engage and energize your own existing internal resources, the parts of you that are already confident, calm, creative, courageous and compassionate. We can do this work together.
(646) 846-0173 View (646) 846-0173
Photo of Danielle Schimel, MA, MHC-LP
Danielle Schimel
MA, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hauppauge, NY 11788
I utilize multiple interventions from CBT, DBT, Play therapy, Gestalt, SFBT, Reality, Person-centered, Family systems, and Mindfulness.
I want to begin by applauding your initiative in seeking counseling services. Acknowledging the need for help and reaching out is a commendable and courageous step. It demonstrates self-awareness and a willingness to prioritize your well-being. I want to help individuals manage ADHD, Relationship and Interpersonal issues, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Stress, Burnout, and more.
I utilize multiple interventions from CBT, DBT, Play therapy, Gestalt, SFBT, Reality, Person-centered, Family systems, and Mindfulness.
I want to begin by applauding your initiative in seeking counseling services. Acknowledging the need for help and reaching out is a commendable and courageous step. It demonstrates self-awareness and a willingness to prioritize your well-being. I want to help individuals manage ADHD, Relationship and Interpersonal issues, Anxiety, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Stress, Burnout, and more.
(631) 735-6979 View (631) 735-6979
Photo of Dominica Aufiero, LCSW
Dominica Aufiero
LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
I have a holistic view in healing and deeply value the client-therapist relationship. Creativity is the true essence of psychotherapy. I value clients partnership in their healing and invite them to explore their inner insight and creativity along with my therapeutic guidance. I draw from clinical approaches such as CBT, culturally sensitive, eclectic, integrative, jungian, humanistic, transpersonal, strength based and gestalt. My experience has brought me to see valuable psychotherapy as when the client becomes aware that their presenting problem can be healed by adopting and integrating positive and healthy perceptions and actions.
I have a holistic view in healing and deeply value the client-therapist relationship. Creativity is the true essence of psychotherapy. I value clients partnership in their healing and invite them to explore their inner insight and creativity along with my therapeutic guidance. I draw from clinical approaches such as CBT, culturally sensitive, eclectic, integrative, jungian, humanistic, transpersonal, strength based and gestalt. My experience has brought me to see valuable psychotherapy as when the client becomes aware that their presenting problem can be healed by adopting and integrating positive and healthy perceptions and actions.
(516) 690-7950 View (516) 690-7950
Photo of Diane L Roach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane L Roach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Station, NY 11746
We live in a fast paced society and changes happen everyday. At times it may be difficult to catch up with yourself, and when you finally do, it can be overwhelming. As a Gestalt certified psychotherapist I will help guide you back into present day awareness of yourself, whether you are searching for who you are today, or are feeling stuck and unmotivated, I can help you.
We live in a fast paced society and changes happen everyday. At times it may be difficult to catch up with yourself, and when you finally do, it can be overwhelming. As a Gestalt certified psychotherapist I will help guide you back into present day awareness of yourself, whether you are searching for who you are today, or are feeling stuck and unmotivated, I can help you.
(516) 596-8564 View (516) 596-8564
Photo of Ann M Champney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann M Champney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Station, NY 11746
I am a trained Gestalt therapist and I work with individuals, couples and families.
I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years and I have an extensive background & significant experience in working with: anxiety disorders, depression, grief & loss, relationships, abandonment , self-esteem issues, & PTSD. I am also skilled in doing inner child work. Whether it's marital or individual counseling, I very much value the "creative" process necessary for change and growth. I believe change is a journey we all struggle with. Having help on this journey can be life changing.
I am a trained Gestalt therapist and I work with individuals, couples and families.
I have been in the mental health field for over 20 years and I have an extensive background & significant experience in working with: anxiety disorders, depression, grief & loss, relationships, abandonment , self-esteem issues, & PTSD. I am also skilled in doing inner child work. Whether it's marital or individual counseling, I very much value the "creative" process necessary for change and growth. I believe change is a journey we all struggle with. Having help on this journey can be life changing.
(516) 962-2694 View (516) 962-2694
Photo of Jandy Choe, LMHC
Jandy Choe
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Trying to pick the right therapist can be a challenge. You can think of our first meeting more like a conversation, where we will go over what you are experiencing and how I can help you materialize your goals, values, and priorities. I offer a safe, comfortable, and compassionate space where we can explore how to reduce your suffering and help you get to where you want to be. For years, I have made it my purpose to help others resolve their internal pain and heartache. Although I tailor my approach for each client, I tend to consistently utilize EMDR, psychodynamic, gestalt, DBT, and narrative theoretical orientations.
Trying to pick the right therapist can be a challenge. You can think of our first meeting more like a conversation, where we will go over what you are experiencing and how I can help you materialize your goals, values, and priorities. I offer a safe, comfortable, and compassionate space where we can explore how to reduce your suffering and help you get to where you want to be. For years, I have made it my purpose to help others resolve their internal pain and heartache. Although I tailor my approach for each client, I tend to consistently utilize EMDR, psychodynamic, gestalt, DBT, and narrative theoretical orientations.
(516) 399-0534 View (516) 399-0534
Photo of Maya Novok, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maya Novok
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Commack, NY 11725  (Online Only)
As an experienced clinician, I utilize evidenced-based practices in my private practice including the following therapeutic interventions: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy, Gestalt and Motivational Interviewing.
When the last time someone really listened to you? When was the last time you truly felt understood? If you're struggling to put your needs first, I can be your guide to help you navigate through your feelings and thoughts. With 16 years of counseling experience, I specialize in treating individuals, couples and families that struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Past Trauma, Relationships, Intimacy Issues, Sexuality, and Stress with the compassion and dignity they deserve.
As an experienced clinician, I utilize evidenced-based practices in my private practice including the following therapeutic interventions: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Recovery-Oriented Cognitive Therapy, Gestalt and Motivational Interviewing.
When the last time someone really listened to you? When was the last time you truly felt understood? If you're struggling to put your needs first, I can be your guide to help you navigate through your feelings and thoughts. With 16 years of counseling experience, I specialize in treating individuals, couples and families that struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, ADHD, Past Trauma, Relationships, Intimacy Issues, Sexuality, and Stress with the compassion and dignity they deserve.
(631) 817-4090 View (631) 817-4090
Photo of Jeffrey R Zeth - Becoming Yourself, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becoming Yourself
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centerport, NY 11721  (Online Only)
As a gestalt therapist, I use a combination of experiential and cognitive techniques, first to get inside your experience, and then to look at ways of changing it.
Do you feel without a sense of purpose in your life? Are you in long-term addiction recovery and looking for meaning in life beyond sobriety? Have your relationships been lacking the connection you want, or has a relationship recently ended? Are you anxious about meeting new people? All these challenges are easier to overcome when there is someone facing them with you. Previous clients have worked in academia and the STEM fields, are in the process of ending long-term relationships, or are in long-term addiction recovery (at least one year).
As a gestalt therapist, I use a combination of experiential and cognitive techniques, first to get inside your experience, and then to look at ways of changing it.
Do you feel without a sense of purpose in your life? Are you in long-term addiction recovery and looking for meaning in life beyond sobriety? Have your relationships been lacking the connection you want, or has a relationship recently ended? Are you anxious about meeting new people? All these challenges are easier to overcome when there is someone facing them with you. Previous clients have worked in academia and the STEM fields, are in the process of ending long-term relationships, or are in long-term addiction recovery (at least one year).
(347) 652-1028 View (347) 652-1028
Photo of Catherine Petrone, LP, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Catherine Petrone
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10036
Are you seeking to overcome anxiety, depression, or trauma? As a seasoned psychoanalyst and Gestalt therapist, I specialize in individual therapy, couples therapy and I also lead interactive group therapy sessions. I empower you to reach your full potential, fostering a life filled with peace and joy. Together, we will transform past wounds into a powerful source of love, strength, and freedom. Imagine living a life beyond your wildest dreams—I’m here to show you the way. I offer online therapy for residents of New York and in-person sessions in South Nassau County.
Are you seeking to overcome anxiety, depression, or trauma? As a seasoned psychoanalyst and Gestalt therapist, I specialize in individual therapy, couples therapy and I also lead interactive group therapy sessions. I empower you to reach your full potential, fostering a life filled with peace and joy. Together, we will transform past wounds into a powerful source of love, strength, and freedom. Imagine living a life beyond your wildest dreams—I’m here to show you the way. I offer online therapy for residents of New York and in-person sessions in South Nassau County.
(516) 973-5078 View (516) 973-5078

See more therapy options for Kings Park

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.