Gestalt Therapists in New York, NY

Mary F Ekwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003
I am NYS Board Qualified Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Family Therapist and NYS Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist specializing in bilingual (Spanish/English) adolescents and their families, couples and individuals suffering from relationship dysfunction, attachment trauma, self dys-regulation, intergenerational issues, mood disorders, trauma related disorders, addiction, personality disorders and problems with acculturation. As a professional I bring perseverance and dedication to my chosen field, as well as a deep regard for personal improvement and the hope that my dedication and sense of justice make even a small but meaningful difference in the lives of the families I treat. .
I am NYS Board Qualified Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Family Therapist and NYS Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist specializing in bilingual (Spanish/English) adolescents and their families, couples and individuals suffering from relationship dysfunction, attachment trauma, self dys-regulation, intergenerational issues, mood disorders, trauma related disorders, addiction, personality disorders and problems with acculturation. As a professional I bring perseverance and dedication to my chosen field, as well as a deep regard for personal improvement and the hope that my dedication and sense of justice make even a small but meaningful difference in the lives of the families I treat. .
(646) 681-2983 View (646) 681-2983
Photo of Mark Colterjohn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mark Colterjohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
Mark Colterjohn, LCSW is a psychotherapist practicing in the Flatiron District of Manhattan. He has over 25-years experience as a psychotherapist and is committed to providing you the highest level of care. Mr. Colterjohn holds advanced degrees in Psychology and Clinical Social Work. Mr. Colterjohn also holds post-graduate certifications in Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR. Mr. Colterjohn is on the faculty of Columbia University as an adjunct professor who supervises psychotherapy students.
Mark Colterjohn, LCSW is a psychotherapist practicing in the Flatiron District of Manhattan. He has over 25-years experience as a psychotherapist and is committed to providing you the highest level of care. Mr. Colterjohn holds advanced degrees in Psychology and Clinical Social Work. Mr. Colterjohn also holds post-graduate certifications in Gestalt Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR. Mr. Colterjohn is on the faculty of Columbia University as an adjunct professor who supervises psychotherapy students.
(917) 451-6190 View (917) 451-6190
Photo of Yaying Ma, LMHC, Counselor
Yaying Ma
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
I practice integrated therapy using CBT, DBT, Gestalt, Attachment-Based Therapy, etc.
As you are reading this, welcome to therapy! My name is Yaying, and I'm a licensed mental health counselor based in NYC. Therapy might seem mysterious; but in fact, it is a journey to understand and explore the holistic self, to make sense of the world, and to make the change that you truly want. In my role as a therapist, I've been moved by witnessing the self-empowerment of my clients as they emerge from their struggles and pain. I promise I will be the bridge to help and guide you connect your different inner parts, to stand by you through this healing journey.
I practice integrated therapy using CBT, DBT, Gestalt, Attachment-Based Therapy, etc.
As you are reading this, welcome to therapy! My name is Yaying, and I'm a licensed mental health counselor based in NYC. Therapy might seem mysterious; but in fact, it is a journey to understand and explore the holistic self, to make sense of the world, and to make the change that you truly want. In my role as a therapist, I've been moved by witnessing the self-empowerment of my clients as they emerge from their struggles and pain. I promise I will be the bridge to help and guide you connect your different inner parts, to stand by you through this healing journey.
(646) 603-0560 View (646) 603-0560
Photo of Liza Sondow, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Sondow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10075
In addition to traditional Gestalt technics, I integrate evidence-based practices to tailor psychotherapy to every individual, because people have different needs, goals, backgrounds, and environments.
When you feel stuck or experience anxiety, insecurity, sadness, a loss of meaning, or complex feelings that are not easy to explain and to understand - it helps to talk about it and to process emotions in a safe, respectful, and supportive co-created environment. You know intrinsically that there’s a way out of painful experiences, but you don’t know which path to take, or sometimes life is going well, but you feel that it has much more to offer. Whatever the obstacle to your desired life: transition, loss, trauma, stress, identity crisis, or difficult relationship, there is always a way forward.
In addition to traditional Gestalt technics, I integrate evidence-based practices to tailor psychotherapy to every individual, because people have different needs, goals, backgrounds, and environments.
When you feel stuck or experience anxiety, insecurity, sadness, a loss of meaning, or complex feelings that are not easy to explain and to understand - it helps to talk about it and to process emotions in a safe, respectful, and supportive co-created environment. You know intrinsically that there’s a way out of painful experiences, but you don’t know which path to take, or sometimes life is going well, but you feel that it has much more to offer. Whatever the obstacle to your desired life: transition, loss, trauma, stress, identity crisis, or difficult relationship, there is always a way forward.
(646) 759-1889 View (646) 759-1889
Photo of Todd Shalom, MFA, LMSW
Todd Shalom
Licensed Master Social Worker, MFA, LMSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10018
I have a Masters in Social Work from Hunter College and have received advanced training in Gestalt therapy from the Gestalt Center for Psychotherapy and Training.
If you struggle with sexual compulsivity, you know that regaining control of your life requires more than just management of sexual behavior. Sexual compulsivity frequently masks underlying anxiety, depression and trauma, all of which can wreak havoc on our relationships with ourselves and others. Using a “here-and-now” approach, I work with individuals, couples and groups to help heighten awareness of problematic behaviors, recognize patterns that inhibit personal growth, and restore choice in decision-making.
I have a Masters in Social Work from Hunter College and have received advanced training in Gestalt therapy from the Gestalt Center for Psychotherapy and Training.
If you struggle with sexual compulsivity, you know that regaining control of your life requires more than just management of sexual behavior. Sexual compulsivity frequently masks underlying anxiety, depression and trauma, all of which can wreak havoc on our relationships with ourselves and others. Using a “here-and-now” approach, I work with individuals, couples and groups to help heighten awareness of problematic behaviors, recognize patterns that inhibit personal growth, and restore choice in decision-making.
(646) 859-5465 View (646) 859-5465
Photo of Trissy Callan, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trissy Callan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
I earned my MSW at Columbia University and trained as a Gestalt therapist.
Do you feel undeserving of your best life? Or carry a burden of shame from abuse as a child, and need help learning to love yourself? Therapy provides a healing path, and I will walk it with you. As kids we learn reading and math yet not how to handle troubling feelings of fear, sadness, anger, and shame. Psychotherapy teaches you how to love yourself. Relief comes as you drop harsh self-judgments that block moving from where you are now to where you want to be. You learn to discriminate between destructive self-criticism and positive self-correction.
I earned my MSW at Columbia University and trained as a Gestalt therapist.
Do you feel undeserving of your best life? Or carry a burden of shame from abuse as a child, and need help learning to love yourself? Therapy provides a healing path, and I will walk it with you. As kids we learn reading and math yet not how to handle troubling feelings of fear, sadness, anger, and shame. Psychotherapy teaches you how to love yourself. Relief comes as you drop harsh self-judgments that block moving from where you are now to where you want to be. You learn to discriminate between destructive self-criticism and positive self-correction.
(646) 846-9425 View (646) 846-9425
Photo of Ali Ellis, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Ali Ellis
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Ali (they/them) is an artist and Creative Arts Therapist. Ali has worked in a variety of therapeutic, community, and educational settings, providing therapy for toddlers, children, teens, and adults. They approach their practice with openness and empathy, taking a person-centered approach while integrating meditation, Gestalt methods, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) into their work. Ali’s clinical experience includes working with individuals living with disabilities, those managing mood disorders, and clients entering therapy to help process and manage major life transitions.
Ali (they/them) is an artist and Creative Arts Therapist. Ali has worked in a variety of therapeutic, community, and educational settings, providing therapy for toddlers, children, teens, and adults. They approach their practice with openness and empathy, taking a person-centered approach while integrating meditation, Gestalt methods, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) into their work. Ali’s clinical experience includes working with individuals living with disabilities, those managing mood disorders, and clients entering therapy to help process and manage major life transitions.
(929) 242-5892 View (929) 242-5892
Photo of Michelle L. Mullins, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle L. Mullins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
My practice is grounded in gestalt psychotherapy, psychodynamics, mindfulness and is relational with a present centered approach.
Therapy can be a great opportunity to receive support and gain insight. I create a safe and accepting environment where you can explore goals and issues you want to change. My approach is warm and compassionate with an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. I believe it is through this relationship that we heal, find acceptance and are able to move forward.
My practice is grounded in gestalt psychotherapy, psychodynamics, mindfulness and is relational with a present centered approach.
Therapy can be a great opportunity to receive support and gain insight. I create a safe and accepting environment where you can explore goals and issues you want to change. My approach is warm and compassionate with an emphasis on the therapeutic relationship. I believe it is through this relationship that we heal, find acceptance and are able to move forward.
(740) 251-9164 View (740) 251-9164
Photo of James F Battaglia, PhD, Psychologist
James F Battaglia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10036  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I receive advanced postdoctoral training in gestalt therapy, a cutting edge approach to therapy, in New York, California, and abroad.
I was born and raised in northern New Jersey and obtained a doctorate from NYU. I now have over 30 years experience as a clinician and work with people who have relationship/work issues, anxiety, depression and more. I have a diverse practice in NYC and these days my practice is with primarily adults and on-line. In February 2022, I became a prostate cancer survivor so that is now part of my personal and professional journey. I am pleased to know that people experience me as a compassionate, thoughtful, and competent professional who approaches the therapeutic work relationally and with a sense of humor.
I receive advanced postdoctoral training in gestalt therapy, a cutting edge approach to therapy, in New York, California, and abroad.
I was born and raised in northern New Jersey and obtained a doctorate from NYU. I now have over 30 years experience as a clinician and work with people who have relationship/work issues, anxiety, depression and more. I have a diverse practice in NYC and these days my practice is with primarily adults and on-line. In February 2022, I became a prostate cancer survivor so that is now part of my personal and professional journey. I am pleased to know that people experience me as a compassionate, thoughtful, and competent professional who approaches the therapeutic work relationally and with a sense of humor.
(646) 490-9432 View (646) 490-9432
Photo of Todd E. Swagler, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Todd E. Swagler
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I provide an integrative individual counseling service. I am interested in supporting clients to make healthy changes and growths in their lives through deepening their awareness of themselves and the world around them. Through this unique therapy relationship we will address current and past concerns from a Gestalt model. We will work together through problems in the here and now, including mindfulness, somatic awareness, meditations, laughter, parts work, and stress reduction practices. I also believe in empowerment in therapy and I believe that the greatest source of healing already exists in each of us as human beings.
I provide an integrative individual counseling service. I am interested in supporting clients to make healthy changes and growths in their lives through deepening their awareness of themselves and the world around them. Through this unique therapy relationship we will address current and past concerns from a Gestalt model. We will work together through problems in the here and now, including mindfulness, somatic awareness, meditations, laughter, parts work, and stress reduction practices. I also believe in empowerment in therapy and I believe that the greatest source of healing already exists in each of us as human beings.
(646) 762-1337 View (646) 762-1337
Photo of Sabina Galli, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabina Galli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10010
I currently hold a private practice, I provide workshops and clinical trainings as a consultant, and I teach and supervise at The Gestalt Center for Psychotherapy and Training.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Clinical Psychologist (Italy). I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years and I have worked and supervised in multiple settings, including mental health clinics, housing residences for the formerly homeless, college counseling centers, and Employee Assistance Programs. I taught as an Adjunct Professor at the Brooklyn College Psychology Department (Graduate program), and I supervised clinical psychology doctoral students.
I currently hold a private practice, I provide workshops and clinical trainings as a consultant, and I teach and supervise at The Gestalt Center for Psychotherapy and Training.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Clinical Psychologist (Italy). I have been a psychotherapist for over 20 years and I have worked and supervised in multiple settings, including mental health clinics, housing residences for the formerly homeless, college counseling centers, and Employee Assistance Programs. I taught as an Adjunct Professor at the Brooklyn College Psychology Department (Graduate program), and I supervised clinical psychology doctoral students.
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Photo of Tamar Gold, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamar Gold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001  (Online Only)
I am a trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy and Gestalt psychotherapy, a holistic psychotherapy that uses information from both body and mind to help you gain insight and resolve issues.
If you feel frustrated that you haven't been able to make the changes you want in your life call to schedule a session today! I have over 20 years of experience in helping people to change the things that cause pain and suffering in their lives. Often we repeat patterns of thought and behavior and need to connect more deeply to what our underlying issues truly are, when clients gain more awareness and connection to their deeper selves they are able to make different and better choices and change their lives.
I am a trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy and Gestalt psychotherapy, a holistic psychotherapy that uses information from both body and mind to help you gain insight and resolve issues.
If you feel frustrated that you haven't been able to make the changes you want in your life call to schedule a session today! I have over 20 years of experience in helping people to change the things that cause pain and suffering in their lives. Often we repeat patterns of thought and behavior and need to connect more deeply to what our underlying issues truly are, when clients gain more awareness and connection to their deeper selves they are able to make different and better choices and change their lives.
(347) 429-7310 View (347) 429-7310
Photo of Mary Kay King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Kay King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
As a certified gestalt therapist, I encourage clients to experience themselves in the present moment and to explore themselves as a whole person: emotional, cognitive, physical and spiritual.
The decision to enter therapy is often fueled by a desire for growth and change. Having worked as a grief counselor for 17 years, I have had the opportunity to help many people as they learn to navigate the major life changes that come with loss. The death of a loved one often triggers unresolved issues and I have helped people cope with relationship issues, family conflicts, anxiety and self esteem as they deal with the ripple effects of loss. Loss and change of any kind can turn one's world upside down. But it can also be a catalyst for growth as old ways of coping are set aside and new ways of being in the world are explored.
As a certified gestalt therapist, I encourage clients to experience themselves in the present moment and to explore themselves as a whole person: emotional, cognitive, physical and spiritual.
The decision to enter therapy is often fueled by a desire for growth and change. Having worked as a grief counselor for 17 years, I have had the opportunity to help many people as they learn to navigate the major life changes that come with loss. The death of a loved one often triggers unresolved issues and I have helped people cope with relationship issues, family conflicts, anxiety and self esteem as they deal with the ripple effects of loss. Loss and change of any kind can turn one's world upside down. But it can also be a catalyst for growth as old ways of coping are set aside and new ways of being in the world are explored.
(917) 451-3854 View (917) 451-3854
Photo of Adam J Weitz - Adam J Weitz, LCSW Psychotherapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adam J Weitz, LCSW Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Waitlist for new clients
Contemporary Gestalt psychotherapy is holistic, humanistic, embodied, and relational.
In individual psychotherapy, we look at how you are currently living and clarify what is working for you and what you want to change. A therapeutic conversation heightens awareness of your feelings, thoughts, sensations and behaviors. With my support, you learn to use your growing awareness as ground for taking experimental steps in new enlivening directions. Our therapy process leads toward resolution, change and growth. I will help you apply what you learn in therapy to your daily life. Our working relationship is important, so the first step is to meet one another. I look forward to meeting you.
Contemporary Gestalt psychotherapy is holistic, humanistic, embodied, and relational.
In individual psychotherapy, we look at how you are currently living and clarify what is working for you and what you want to change. A therapeutic conversation heightens awareness of your feelings, thoughts, sensations and behaviors. With my support, you learn to use your growing awareness as ground for taking experimental steps in new enlivening directions. Our therapy process leads toward resolution, change and growth. I will help you apply what you learn in therapy to your daily life. Our working relationship is important, so the first step is to meet one another. I look forward to meeting you.
(917) 521-6406 View (917) 521-6406
Photo of Kirill Lyaskovskiy
Kirill Lyaskovskiy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10065  (Online Only)
I work in an integrative way using techniques of gestalt, cognitive-behavioral and analytical approaches, as well as the basics of general psychology and psychophysiology.
My client is a thinking person who wants happiness and fullness of life. Often we neglect simple rules and do not notice how we do the same things, which does not allow us to grow and move forward. Each person is unique, so there is no single instruction for life, there is only your desire to change something. Together we can study the entire chain of what is happening in order to find weak links and heal them. If you are ready to change your life and remove from it depression, anxiety, addictions, shame, insecurity, fear, laziness, lies and any other discomfort - write to me and I will help you make it happen!
I work in an integrative way using techniques of gestalt, cognitive-behavioral and analytical approaches, as well as the basics of general psychology and psychophysiology.
My client is a thinking person who wants happiness and fullness of life. Often we neglect simple rules and do not notice how we do the same things, which does not allow us to grow and move forward. Each person is unique, so there is no single instruction for life, there is only your desire to change something. Together we can study the entire chain of what is happening in order to find weak links and heal them. If you are ready to change your life and remove from it depression, anxiety, addictions, shame, insecurity, fear, laziness, lies and any other discomfort - write to me and I will help you make it happen!
(347) 801-2062 View (347) 801-2062
Photo of Robert Mauksch, LCSW
Robert Mauksch
LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I have advanced training in Gestalt Therapy and couples work, and offer couples, group, and individual therapy.
As a therapist, I use an interactive, “here and now” approach. I believe that relationships are healing, and that a strong connection and open dialogue between myself and the client is the most effective path toward change.
I have advanced training in Gestalt Therapy and couples work, and offer couples, group, and individual therapy.
As a therapist, I use an interactive, “here and now” approach. I believe that relationships are healing, and that a strong connection and open dialogue between myself and the client is the most effective path toward change.
(917) 794-3591 View (917) 794-3591
Photo of Helen Bird, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helen Bird
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011  (Online Only)
I use Gestalt and IFS as wonderful tools in therapy.
As your therapist, I will listen to you with care, interest, empathy, presence and compassion. I will support your emotional healing in a way that respects who you are. I will support your personal strengths, and help you engage them as fully as possible. I agree with Rogers, who believes that when a person experiences unconditional acceptance and empathic understanding from someone who is genuine and real, healing and growth occur. My style is generated from various humanistic psychotherapies with an interest in the mind/body/spirit interrelation, combined with a grounding in classical theories.
I use Gestalt and IFS as wonderful tools in therapy.
As your therapist, I will listen to you with care, interest, empathy, presence and compassion. I will support your emotional healing in a way that respects who you are. I will support your personal strengths, and help you engage them as fully as possible. I agree with Rogers, who believes that when a person experiences unconditional acceptance and empathic understanding from someone who is genuine and real, healing and growth occur. My style is generated from various humanistic psychotherapies with an interest in the mind/body/spirit interrelation, combined with a grounding in classical theories.
(914) 252-3974 View (914) 252-3974
Photo of Nancy Bourque, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Bourque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10025
In addition I am a Clinical Social Worker with Gestalt psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR training.
I have so much respect for all that we go through in the course of life and feel that everyone could use support and help when going through life transitions and challenging times. Whether you experiencing anxiety, dealing with trauma, a health crisis or are in the process of reinventing yourself psychotherapy can help you accomplish your goals and figure out the best ways forward.
In addition I am a Clinical Social Worker with Gestalt psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR training.
I have so much respect for all that we go through in the course of life and feel that everyone could use support and help when going through life transitions and challenging times. Whether you experiencing anxiety, dealing with trauma, a health crisis or are in the process of reinventing yourself psychotherapy can help you accomplish your goals and figure out the best ways forward.
(646) 490-0515 View (646) 490-0515
Photo of Renya Larson, LMSW, MA
Renya Larson
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016  (Online Only)
My work is informed by Gestalt therapy, as well as evidence-based practices that I select depending on a client's needs (Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavior Therapy).
I work with clients struggling with sexual addiction or sexually compulsive behaviors. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to talk about the behavior patterns that trouble them, to gain awareness of why these patterns have been so hard to change, and to support them in taking steps toward lives of greater authenticity and fulfillment. I also work with intimate partners who have been impacted by sexually compulsive behavior, both individually and in couples therapy.
My work is informed by Gestalt therapy, as well as evidence-based practices that I select depending on a client's needs (Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavior Therapy).
I work with clients struggling with sexual addiction or sexually compulsive behaviors. My goal is to provide a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to talk about the behavior patterns that trouble them, to gain awareness of why these patterns have been so hard to change, and to support them in taking steps toward lives of greater authenticity and fulfillment. I also work with intimate partners who have been impacted by sexually compulsive behavior, both individually and in couples therapy.
(347) 933-6945 View (347) 933-6945
Photo of Ruben Mussafi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruben Mussafi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I utilize evidence-based techniques (such as CBT, EFT, & EMDR), gestalt, psychodynamic, over 10 years of meditation, and a diverse background to enhance each session.
I know how hard it can be to find an active and mindful therapist who truly appreciates your troubles and your strengths, and can also help you make effective changes. My first priority is to listen deeply to my clients and become attuned to their story and themes. Then, I create a unique tailored plan to provide the necessary tools, as I believe in the importance of techniques and methods. I also strive to simplify our process using experiential forms of therapy including creative parts work, to explore and unearth rich parts of yourself, which can foster genuine expression and build independence toward your goals.
I utilize evidence-based techniques (such as CBT, EFT, & EMDR), gestalt, psychodynamic, over 10 years of meditation, and a diverse background to enhance each session.
I know how hard it can be to find an active and mindful therapist who truly appreciates your troubles and your strengths, and can also help you make effective changes. My first priority is to listen deeply to my clients and become attuned to their story and themes. Then, I create a unique tailored plan to provide the necessary tools, as I believe in the importance of techniques and methods. I also strive to simplify our process using experiential forms of therapy including creative parts work, to explore and unearth rich parts of yourself, which can foster genuine expression and build independence toward your goals.
(917) 909-2927 View (917) 909-2927
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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.