Gestalt Therapists in Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Francesca M Bernardi, Pre-Licensed Professional
Francesca M Bernardi
Pre-Licensed Professional
Minneapolis, MN 55403
My foundation in mindfulness and meditation informs my work, along with elements of art therapy and Gestalt therapy.
Therapy with me is a balance of lighthearted conversation and meaningful exploration. Some days, we’ll talk about work, relationships, or creative blocks, other days, we’ll dive deep into what’s beneath the surface. You don’t have to come to therapy with everything figured out - I meet you where you are, creating a space of trust, curiosity, and support.
My foundation in mindfulness and meditation informs my work, along with elements of art therapy and Gestalt therapy.
Therapy with me is a balance of lighthearted conversation and meaningful exploration. Some days, we’ll talk about work, relationships, or creative blocks, other days, we’ll dive deep into what’s beneath the surface. You don’t have to come to therapy with everything figured out - I meet you where you are, creating a space of trust, curiosity, and support.
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Photo of Allison July Ruiter, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Allison July Ruiter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55403
My approach combines Gestalt and Cognitive Behavioral therapies, music, art, movement, mindfulness, & somatic therapies.
My graduate degree is in Trauma & Crisis Counseling and I have been working with clients on managing and healing trauma symptoms since 2020. In addition I specialize in Somatic Therapy Techniques, and I have a background in religious trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, Grief, Chronic Illness, and Mood Disorders such as Anxiety & Depression.
My approach combines Gestalt and Cognitive Behavioral therapies, music, art, movement, mindfulness, & somatic therapies.
My graduate degree is in Trauma & Crisis Counseling and I have been working with clients on managing and healing trauma symptoms since 2020. In addition I specialize in Somatic Therapy Techniques, and I have a background in religious trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, Grief, Chronic Illness, and Mood Disorders such as Anxiety & Depression.
(651) 505-5592 View (651) 505-5592
Photo of Claire Biringer, Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Claire Biringer
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is informed by Gestalt and humanistic principles, integrated with existential and somatic therapies; I will approach our sessions with warmth, acceptance, and the idea that you are the expert on your own life.
Currently accepting individuals and couples! Welcome – I've created my therapeutic practice to help guide my clients towards awareness, curiosity, emotional attunement and expression, and self-compassion, whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety or depression, unresolved trauma, disconnection, or perfectionism and overcontrol. With couples, I seek to strengthen your existing bond and help each of you feel heard, respected, and connected. If you feel stuck or lost, and want to reclaim your agency and connection with yourself or your partner, it might be time to take this next step.
My practice is informed by Gestalt and humanistic principles, integrated with existential and somatic therapies; I will approach our sessions with warmth, acceptance, and the idea that you are the expert on your own life.
Currently accepting individuals and couples! Welcome – I've created my therapeutic practice to help guide my clients towards awareness, curiosity, emotional attunement and expression, and self-compassion, whether you are struggling with an eating disorder, anxiety or depression, unresolved trauma, disconnection, or perfectionism and overcontrol. With couples, I seek to strengthen your existing bond and help each of you feel heard, respected, and connected. If you feel stuck or lost, and want to reclaim your agency and connection with yourself or your partner, it might be time to take this next step.
(206) 279-9701 View (206) 279-9701
Photo of Yaser Dorri, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Yaser Dorri
Psychologist, PhD, LP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach in psychotherapy is gestalt theory and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
It can be challenging to start therapy and share your experiences with someone you don’t know. While the process in therapy is sometimes difficult, it can help us to learn more about ourselves and become aware of our behaviors and core values. My approach in therapy is to provide a safe enviroment so you can be yourself, learn more about who you are and become aware of what interrupts your connection with your enviroment, values, or the way you like to live your life.
My approach in psychotherapy is gestalt theory and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
It can be challenging to start therapy and share your experiences with someone you don’t know. While the process in therapy is sometimes difficult, it can help us to learn more about ourselves and become aware of our behaviors and core values. My approach in therapy is to provide a safe enviroment so you can be yourself, learn more about who you are and become aware of what interrupts your connection with your enviroment, values, or the way you like to live your life.
(248) 963-7975 View (248) 963-7975
Photo of Dana Vikland, Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS, LADC
Dana Vikland
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS, LADC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I often employ Gestalt and embodied or somatic methods to synthesize your healing process, and may bring in aspects of CBT or DBT to further mobilize your growth.
In today's world, we often find ourselves disconnected from our loved ones, communities, and ourselves. The challenges we face can be more complex and layered than we may realize; just like us. It can seem daunting to take on healing (new or old pains) on our own, and we often feel we should or have to go it alone. As a therapist, my goal is to partner with you in building upon your insight, empowerment, fulfillment, and practical agency for healing. We are active participants in both the challenges we face and the solutions we create; within accountability lies empowerment.
I often employ Gestalt and embodied or somatic methods to synthesize your healing process, and may bring in aspects of CBT or DBT to further mobilize your growth.
In today's world, we often find ourselves disconnected from our loved ones, communities, and ourselves. The challenges we face can be more complex and layered than we may realize; just like us. It can seem daunting to take on healing (new or old pains) on our own, and we often feel we should or have to go it alone. As a therapist, my goal is to partner with you in building upon your insight, empowerment, fulfillment, and practical agency for healing. We are active participants in both the challenges we face and the solutions we create; within accountability lies empowerment.
(651) 243-0514 View (651) 243-0514
Photo of Steve Cartell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
Steve Cartell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, MSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
As a strengths and solution focused therapist, I believe we each have the power to process our issues and find the key to unlock often untapped potential; taking care of one’s mental health is vital to living a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and men’s issues. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand the struggles many encounter and work to create a safe and welcoming space for all!
As a strengths and solution focused therapist, I believe we each have the power to process our issues and find the key to unlock often untapped potential; taking care of one’s mental health is vital to living a peaceful and fulfilling life. I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, and men’s issues. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I understand the struggles many encounter and work to create a safe and welcoming space for all!
(651) 384-3396 View (651) 384-3396
Photo of Kristin Kane Art Therapist, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
Kristin Kane Art Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
6 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55439
I offer a collaborative holistic and strengths based approach that empowers clients. I provide a supportive environment for self-expression to help return clients to a sense of wellness and health. I believe that through embracing creativity client's can find relief from emotional pain, gain self-awareness and insight, and heal from trauma. I help others empower themselves to heal through compassionate presence.
I offer a collaborative holistic and strengths based approach that empowers clients. I provide a supportive environment for self-expression to help return clients to a sense of wellness and health. I believe that through embracing creativity client's can find relief from emotional pain, gain self-awareness and insight, and heal from trauma. I help others empower themselves to heal through compassionate presence.
(651) 419-3797 View (651) 419-3797
Photo of Svetlana Petrovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Svetlana Petrovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Minneapolis, MN 55403
It is no easy task to lift the shadow of depression, to rebuild your life after a traumatic experience, or to make healthy decisions when chronically stressed, emotionally dysregulated, or when experiencing a relationship/identity crisis. My compassionate, engaging approach and incisive reflection creates a nourishing space for individuals to endeavor on their healing journeys.
It is no easy task to lift the shadow of depression, to rebuild your life after a traumatic experience, or to make healthy decisions when chronically stressed, emotionally dysregulated, or when experiencing a relationship/identity crisis. My compassionate, engaging approach and incisive reflection creates a nourishing space for individuals to endeavor on their healing journeys.
(612) 712-5781 View (612) 712-5781
Photo of Brandy T Fountain, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Brandy T Fountain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Collaboration and teamwork are paramount to achieving positive change, and I foster such an environment in my sessions. As an African American female, I am passionate about raising awareness of how mental health affects our daily lives and committed to providing mental health services to underrepresented communities. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical Counseling, I am continuously expanding my knowledge and skills to serve my clients better.
Collaboration and teamwork are paramount to achieving positive change, and I foster such an environment in my sessions. As an African American female, I am passionate about raising awareness of how mental health affects our daily lives and committed to providing mental health services to underrepresented communities. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Clinical Counseling, I am continuously expanding my knowledge and skills to serve my clients better.
(612) 662-7613 View (612) 662-7613
Photo of David P Gordon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
David P Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Minneapolis, MN 55419
I've been a psychotherapist for over 40 years. What I have found is the most powerfull tool is the relationships I develop with my clients which are often deeply meaningful, based on understanding the depth of the person, often extending to the inclusion of spiritual experience. I am a fully trained marriage and family therapist, and I have graduated from the Minnesota Psychoanalytic Institute as a certified Psychoanalyst. The American Psychoanalytic Institute has awarded me the status of a Training and Supervising Analyst, the highest level of certification awarded. I want to help people find their own sense of truth.
I've been a psychotherapist for over 40 years. What I have found is the most powerfull tool is the relationships I develop with my clients which are often deeply meaningful, based on understanding the depth of the person, often extending to the inclusion of spiritual experience. I am a fully trained marriage and family therapist, and I have graduated from the Minnesota Psychoanalytic Institute as a certified Psychoanalyst. The American Psychoanalytic Institute has awarded me the status of a Training and Supervising Analyst, the highest level of certification awarded. I want to help people find their own sense of truth.
(651) 964-0954 View (651) 964-0954
Photo of Aida Shahghasemi, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Aida Shahghasemi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Compassionate courage lives at the intersection of a supportive, safe environment and a willingness to kindly challenge yourself, and it is what I wish to provide for you. Actively questioning the ideas of “normalcy,” I work with you to unravel what assumptions you may have about yourself or the world around you. As we work together, I will help you contextualize our discoveries socially, developmentally, culturally, and biologically.
Compassionate courage lives at the intersection of a supportive, safe environment and a willingness to kindly challenge yourself, and it is what I wish to provide for you. Actively questioning the ideas of “normalcy,” I work with you to unravel what assumptions you may have about yourself or the world around you. As we work together, I will help you contextualize our discoveries socially, developmentally, culturally, and biologically.
(952) 592-8669 View (952) 592-8669
Photo of Jen Nelson, Counselor, LPCC
Jen Nelson
Counselor, LPCC
Minneapolis, MN 55419
Now accepting Blue Cross BlueShield and Health Partners. I believe that each person is their own healer and is capable of living life fully. My approach to therapy includes exploring our past experience, present circumstances, and future goals. I strive to create a non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative space for my clients. My experience includes anxiety, depression, trauma, EMDR, substance use disorder, eating disorder, self esteem, body image, perinatal mental health, and parenting.
Now accepting Blue Cross BlueShield and Health Partners. I believe that each person is their own healer and is capable of living life fully. My approach to therapy includes exploring our past experience, present circumstances, and future goals. I strive to create a non-judgmental, compassionate, and collaborative space for my clients. My experience includes anxiety, depression, trauma, EMDR, substance use disorder, eating disorder, self esteem, body image, perinatal mental health, and parenting.
(952) 900-3403 View (952) 900-3403
Photo of Albert N Brown, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, JD, MA, PCC, LADC
Albert N Brown
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, JD, MA, PCC, LADC
Minneapolis, MN 55412
I have 20 years' combined experience working with culturally, ethnically and generationally diverse clients in therapy, chemical use, restorative justice, and counseling children and families in need. I'm dedicated to enthusiastic, respectful and dynamic interactions as a means of creating and nurturing community interest. As a psychotherapist and LADC, I've worked with adults, adolescents, and families from all walks of life. My goal is to foster well-being in individuals and families. I seek to eliminate the stigma of shame and guilt associated with mental health and substance use, which leads to understanding, respectful conversations that enable healing.
I have 20 years' combined experience working with culturally, ethnically and generationally diverse clients in therapy, chemical use, restorative justice, and counseling children and families in need. I'm dedicated to enthusiastic, respectful and dynamic interactions as a means of creating and nurturing community interest. As a psychotherapist and LADC, I've worked with adults, adolescents, and families from all walks of life. My goal is to foster well-being in individuals and families. I seek to eliminate the stigma of shame and guilt associated with mental health and substance use, which leads to understanding, respectful conversations that enable healing.
(763) 265-7022 x2 View (763) 265-7022 x2
Photo of Reema Bhattacharya - Holistic Psychotherapy Practice, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Holistic Psychotherapy Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Online Only
You are facing some challenges in your life like trauma, mood disorders, chronic health or pain issues, perhaps with co-occurring diagnoses of mental health & addiction. You might be struggling in your relationships as a spouse, partner or parent. You need a collaborative partnership with a trauma-informed therapist who will customize their approach towards your care, work with you to understand your needs, recognize your strengths and learn to address your challenges. You are looking for a therapist who is responsive to your culture, sexuality & uniqueness. You could work with the therapist as an individual, a couple or a family.
You are facing some challenges in your life like trauma, mood disorders, chronic health or pain issues, perhaps with co-occurring diagnoses of mental health & addiction. You might be struggling in your relationships as a spouse, partner or parent. You need a collaborative partnership with a trauma-informed therapist who will customize their approach towards your care, work with you to understand your needs, recognize your strengths and learn to address your challenges. You are looking for a therapist who is responsive to your culture, sexuality & uniqueness. You could work with the therapist as an individual, a couple or a family.
(763) 265-6352 View (763) 265-6352
Photo of Anders Jader, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LGSW
Anders Jader
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LGSW
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Often, our inner world can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even frightening—so much so that avoiding it may seem like the only option. But avoidance comes at a cost—limiting our choices, relationships, or sense of self and aliveness over time. The space I offer will help you turn toward this inner world, and come to understand it with greater clarity and ease. When our inner world becomes clear, our actions in the outer world begin to reflect that clarity—and we can start building a life we truly want to live.
Often, our inner world can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even frightening—so much so that avoiding it may seem like the only option. But avoidance comes at a cost—limiting our choices, relationships, or sense of self and aliveness over time. The space I offer will help you turn toward this inner world, and come to understand it with greater clarity and ease. When our inner world becomes clear, our actions in the outer world begin to reflect that clarity—and we can start building a life we truly want to live.
(612) 230-8058 View (612) 230-8058
Photo of Ellie Biglow Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Ellie Biglow Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55406
I believe strongly in the power of human resilience and believe our relationships are a key factor in this. As a marriage and family therapist, I enjoy working with adults, couples and families. I have experience working in a treatment setting for chemical dependency and complex trauma, where I gained experience in using somatic approaches such as Brainspotting and inner child work to help individuals overcome childhood wounds to be more present and functional in their current lives and relationships. I am also an AAMFT approved supervisor and with current openings for individual, dyad or group supervision.
I believe strongly in the power of human resilience and believe our relationships are a key factor in this. As a marriage and family therapist, I enjoy working with adults, couples and families. I have experience working in a treatment setting for chemical dependency and complex trauma, where I gained experience in using somatic approaches such as Brainspotting and inner child work to help individuals overcome childhood wounds to be more present and functional in their current lives and relationships. I am also an AAMFT approved supervisor and with current openings for individual, dyad or group supervision.
(844) 292-0103 View (844) 292-0103
Photo of Khamphian Vang, Counselor, MA, LPCC
Khamphian Vang
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Minneapolis, MN 55403
Hi, I am happy you are here. More and more people are experiencing a felt sense of disconnection due to chronic stress. I work with individuals impacted by trauma, injustice, grief, loss, and neglect, all leading to emotional, mental, and physical overwhelm. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, dysregulation, burn out, numbing, people-pleasing, perfectionism, overthinking, hyper-independence, procrastination, and negative self-concepts. I believe you have the internal resources for your own healing. Together, we will engage in rest, resourcing, and restoring.
Hi, I am happy you are here. More and more people are experiencing a felt sense of disconnection due to chronic stress. I work with individuals impacted by trauma, injustice, grief, loss, and neglect, all leading to emotional, mental, and physical overwhelm. Many of my clients struggle with anxiety, depression, dysregulation, burn out, numbing, people-pleasing, perfectionism, overthinking, hyper-independence, procrastination, and negative self-concepts. I believe you have the internal resources for your own healing. Together, we will engage in rest, resourcing, and restoring.
(763) 298-2869 View (763) 298-2869
Photo of Julie Madsen, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julie Madsen
Pre-Licensed Professional
Minneapolis, MN 55422
Do you feel like you’re living the life meant for you? I believe we all have the best version of ourselves within us, and we suffer when our lives, actions, and thinking don’t align with it. My educational and work backgrounds include addiction counseling, mental health counseling, and the fields of neuroscience and mental health research. I remain driven by curiosity and passion for the science of the mind, and I update my clinical approach with the latest research discoveries.
Do you feel like you’re living the life meant for you? I believe we all have the best version of ourselves within us, and we suffer when our lives, actions, and thinking don’t align with it. My educational and work backgrounds include addiction counseling, mental health counseling, and the fields of neuroscience and mental health research. I remain driven by curiosity and passion for the science of the mind, and I update my clinical approach with the latest research discoveries.
(763) 415-7687 View (763) 415-7687
Photo of Aaron Spiegel-Emms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Aaron Spiegel-Emms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Online Only
I love to take an integrated approach to working with people and seeing people in the context of all aspects of their lives. As a queer, nonbinary transgender person I am passionate about intersectional social justice and working towards a world in which everyone is treated with respect and dignity. I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds, however, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ people, people with co-occurring disorders, and persons living with HIV.
I love to take an integrated approach to working with people and seeing people in the context of all aspects of their lives. As a queer, nonbinary transgender person I am passionate about intersectional social justice and working towards a world in which everyone is treated with respect and dignity. I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds, however, I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ people, people with co-occurring disorders, and persons living with HIV.
(612) 712-4871 View (612) 712-4871
Photo of Alyssa Perau, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-I
Alyssa Perau
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-I
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55407
Waitlist for new clients
Hey there, my name is Alyssa and I use she/they pronouns. I am a queer, neurodivergent pre-licensed marriage and family therapist. My specialty is with couples, families, and teens/adolescents. I am currently taking new clients! I connect with clients through humor, playfulness, and art-making, which I believe can help work through challenges that life can throw at us. In my opinion, art therapy is not about making profound art but is a tool to help process feelings and discover something new.
Hey there, my name is Alyssa and I use she/they pronouns. I am a queer, neurodivergent pre-licensed marriage and family therapist. My specialty is with couples, families, and teens/adolescents. I am currently taking new clients! I connect with clients through humor, playfulness, and art-making, which I believe can help work through challenges that life can throw at us. In my opinion, art therapy is not about making profound art but is a tool to help process feelings and discover something new.
(651) 615-3520 View (651) 615-3520
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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.