Gestalt Therapists in Olympia, WA
Getting to the heart of intense emotions and changing the status quo can be frightening. Yet, so is the idea of remaining in a place that is no longer sustainable. You know it’s time to stop trying to fill that void with what is no longer working. It can be very difficult to step out of expectations and into your authentic self. The decision to seek professional therapy and create movement in your life says you are ready. Anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors and negative relationship patterns can become so overwhelming that we feel distrust in everything, especially ourselves.
Getting to the heart of intense emotions and changing the status quo can be frightening. Yet, so is the idea of remaining in a place that is no longer sustainable. You know it’s time to stop trying to fill that void with what is no longer working. It can be very difficult to step out of expectations and into your authentic self. The decision to seek professional therapy and create movement in your life says you are ready. Anxiety, depression, compulsive behaviors and negative relationship patterns can become so overwhelming that we feel distrust in everything, especially ourselves.
Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself? Are you often the go-to person for others, or perhaps you describe yourself as a "people pleaser"? I enjoy helping people build healthier boundaries, reconnect with themselves, and cultivate self trust.
Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself? Are you often the go-to person for others, or perhaps you describe yourself as a "people pleaser"? I enjoy helping people build healthier boundaries, reconnect with themselves, and cultivate self trust.
Life's transitions can leave us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck. Like a chrysalis, therapy offers a protected space for reflection, healing, and growth. I work with adults navigating trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, neurodivergence, and life changes who are ready to reconnect with themselves and move forward.
Life's transitions can leave us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck. Like a chrysalis, therapy offers a protected space for reflection, healing, and growth. I work with adults navigating trauma, attachment wounds, anxiety, neurodivergence, and life changes who are ready to reconnect with themselves and move forward.
I use a combination of talk therapy, somatic-informed therapies, and evidence-based trauma therapies such as Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Brainspotting, and Gestalt Therapy.
Are you struggling against an internal voice that says you are not good enough or worthy of love and acceptance for who you are? You may have heard this voice from others in your home, school, or on TV growing up, which turned this voice into beliefs that leave parts of you feeling unseen, unheard, and unloved. This is a common story for many people, however, it does not reflect the authentic nature of who you are. You are lovable and worthy. In our time together, I will help you heal emotional wounds from the past, ground yourself in the present, and create a future from a more conscious, intentional, and courageous space inside.
I use a combination of talk therapy, somatic-informed therapies, and evidence-based trauma therapies such as Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Brainspotting, and Gestalt Therapy.
Are you struggling against an internal voice that says you are not good enough or worthy of love and acceptance for who you are? You may have heard this voice from others in your home, school, or on TV growing up, which turned this voice into beliefs that leave parts of you feeling unseen, unheard, and unloved. This is a common story for many people, however, it does not reflect the authentic nature of who you are. You are lovable and worthy. In our time together, I will help you heal emotional wounds from the past, ground yourself in the present, and create a future from a more conscious, intentional, and courageous space inside.
Some days, you feel unstoppable. Other days, even the smallest effort feels impossible. You’ve worked hard to do everything right, yet inside, you’re overwhelmed and questioning if you’re enough. Comparing yourself to others, it seems like they have it all together while you’re just holding on. Maybe you’ve even mastered looking fine on the outside while struggling inside. But it doesn’t have to be this way. You’re ready for a change—to feel in control, capable, and confident no matter what life throws your way.
Some days, you feel unstoppable. Other days, even the smallest effort feels impossible. You’ve worked hard to do everything right, yet inside, you’re overwhelmed and questioning if you’re enough. Comparing yourself to others, it seems like they have it all together while you’re just holding on. Maybe you’ve even mastered looking fine on the outside while struggling inside. But it doesn’t have to be this way. You’re ready for a change—to feel in control, capable, and confident no matter what life throws your way.
Victor L. Steffens, Jr., Ph.D., LMHC, CDP: My interests in psychotherapy and healing are broad and much of my training as a psychotherapist is as well: significant training in Psychodynamic/Psychoanalysis, EMDR, Gestalt Psychotherapy, Psychodrama/Sociometry/Group psychotherapy and a number of different modalities that include a cognitive behavioral perspective. My areas of focus in treatment include: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other anxiety disorders; Drug and Alcohol use disorders including Co-occurring disorders (Dual Diagnosis); Mood disorders (Depression, Bi-Polar), Personality Disorders, and Adjustment Disorders, I primarily treat adults ages 18-75 and adolescents, in addition to couples.
Victor L. Steffens, Jr., Ph.D., LMHC, CDP: My interests in psychotherapy and healing are broad and much of my training as a psychotherapist is as well: significant training in Psychodynamic/Psychoanalysis, EMDR, Gestalt Psychotherapy, Psychodrama/Sociometry/Group psychotherapy and a number of different modalities that include a cognitive behavioral perspective. My areas of focus in treatment include: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and other anxiety disorders; Drug and Alcohol use disorders including Co-occurring disorders (Dual Diagnosis); Mood disorders (Depression, Bi-Polar), Personality Disorders, and Adjustment Disorders, I primarily treat adults ages 18-75 and adolescents, in addition to couples.
I view counseling as a Holistic process of reflection, growth, progress, and change. In other words, gaining a more complete understanding of all aspects of Self (Mind, Spirit, and Body), and using this to find more life satisfaction/ happiness.
My hope is that through our sessions you can gain a greater understanding of yourself, the place you have in this world, and in so doing support you in understanding your purpose, and improve your quality of life. I believe that everyone deserves to live a life worth living, to the extent that their behaviors and choices don't impede on anyone else's safety or rights.
I view counseling as a Holistic process of reflection, growth, progress, and change. In other words, gaining a more complete understanding of all aspects of Self (Mind, Spirit, and Body), and using this to find more life satisfaction/ happiness.
My hope is that through our sessions you can gain a greater understanding of yourself, the place you have in this world, and in so doing support you in understanding your purpose, and improve your quality of life. I believe that everyone deserves to live a life worth living, to the extent that their behaviors and choices don't impede on anyone else's safety or rights.
I use client-centered, mindfulness gestalt, meditation, spiritual direction, centering prayer, and the enneagram as the basis of my work.
This Sky, where we live is no place to lose your wings, so love, love, Love.- Hafiz . My specialty is working with clients who have a desire to incorporate a contemplative (meditation) spiritual practice while working on pressing psychological issues. Relationship, depression, a general malaise, career questions, spirituality, meditation, personal growth? I welcome work on all these..feel free to give me a call, and we can see if it is a fit..
I use client-centered, mindfulness gestalt, meditation, spiritual direction, centering prayer, and the enneagram as the basis of my work.
This Sky, where we live is no place to lose your wings, so love, love, Love.- Hafiz . My specialty is working with clients who have a desire to incorporate a contemplative (meditation) spiritual practice while working on pressing psychological issues. Relationship, depression, a general malaise, career questions, spirituality, meditation, personal growth? I welcome work on all these..feel free to give me a call, and we can see if it is a fit..
Please see website or reach out for additional information about services in CA.
I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment difficulties, and much more. I work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to target your specific needs, while utilizing a variety of therapeutic techniques (e.g., CBT, EFT, Solution Focused, Trauma-Focused CBT). I also have extensive specialty training in psychological and neuropsychological testing, particularly with children and adolescents.
Please see website or reach out for additional information about services in CA.
I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, adjustment difficulties, and much more. I work with you to create an individualized treatment plan to target your specific needs, while utilizing a variety of therapeutic techniques (e.g., CBT, EFT, Solution Focused, Trauma-Focused CBT). I also have extensive specialty training in psychological and neuropsychological testing, particularly with children and adolescents.
People I work with often navigate: persistent self-criticism or shame, histories of trauma, difficulty managing anger or emotional intensity, grief, or life transitions that feel disorienting. Perhaps your mind moves fast, but tasks feel stuck. Maybe anger feels hard to control, focus feels elusive, or grief has left you untethered. You might long for connection, clarity, or simply a space where you don’t have to explain why it’s hard.
People I work with often navigate: persistent self-criticism or shame, histories of trauma, difficulty managing anger or emotional intensity, grief, or life transitions that feel disorienting. Perhaps your mind moves fast, but tasks feel stuck. Maybe anger feels hard to control, focus feels elusive, or grief has left you untethered. You might long for connection, clarity, or simply a space where you don’t have to explain why it’s hard.
Whether you are newly exploring your relational and/or intimacy style and preferences, or have been living a Polyamorous, Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM), Relationship Anarchy, or other alternative relationship/intimacy style for years, there are common challenges most of us face. From deconstructing old patterns, dealing with jealousy, and clarifying boundaries to facing judgment, criticism, or erasure of your relationships, it’s not easy to live in a way that feels true to yourself, yet is not widely accepted. It can feel like you’re alone on a journey with no map and an unknown destination. You don't have to figure it out by yourself.
Whether you are newly exploring your relational and/or intimacy style and preferences, or have been living a Polyamorous, Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM), Relationship Anarchy, or other alternative relationship/intimacy style for years, there are common challenges most of us face. From deconstructing old patterns, dealing with jealousy, and clarifying boundaries to facing judgment, criticism, or erasure of your relationships, it’s not easy to live in a way that feels true to yourself, yet is not widely accepted. It can feel like you’re alone on a journey with no map and an unknown destination. You don't have to figure it out by yourself.
Hello! I'm Caitlin Hill, your dedicated counselor passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges. My journey began in the military where I served as an active-duty officer, honing my leadership skills and learning the value of resilience. This experience has been instrumental in understanding the unique needs of military families and Veterans which I've addressed in professional conferences, highlighting virtual interventions for postpartum depression and anxiety among military spouses. I have also worked in private practice for over 4 years working with military and non-military individuals working through trauma.
Hello! I'm Caitlin Hill, your dedicated counselor passionate about empowering individuals to overcome challenges. My journey began in the military where I served as an active-duty officer, honing my leadership skills and learning the value of resilience. This experience has been instrumental in understanding the unique needs of military families and Veterans which I've addressed in professional conferences, highlighting virtual interventions for postpartum depression and anxiety among military spouses. I have also worked in private practice for over 4 years working with military and non-military individuals working through trauma.
Are you feeling stuck, confused...and don’t know how to move forward? I now offer A.R.T. or Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Brainspotting in addition to Clinical Hypnotherapy and Past Life Regression. All are truly unique ways of healing and finding relief. Clients are reporting less anxiety, less repetitive thinking, and more calm. More ability to self-regulate and move forward in relationships, work and life. I am also now offering services as a Death Doula. Ask me about that.
Are you feeling stuck, confused...and don’t know how to move forward? I now offer A.R.T. or Accelerated Resolution Therapy, and Brainspotting in addition to Clinical Hypnotherapy and Past Life Regression. All are truly unique ways of healing and finding relief. Clients are reporting less anxiety, less repetitive thinking, and more calm. More ability to self-regulate and move forward in relationships, work and life. I am also now offering services as a Death Doula. Ask me about that.
I utilize approaches such as Gestalt, parts work, trauma-focused modalities, DBT, and ACT in sessions.
Hello and welcome, thanks for visiting my page! The decision to start counseling can be daunting and I want to congratulate you in taking the first steps! My name is Brie Scott and I’m an LGBTQ+ Licensed Counselor in both Washington and Idaho. My specialties include but are not limited to: Trauma, ADHD/Autism, Depression, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+ topics, as well as other mood disorders/diagnoses. When we meet, our sessions will focus on your concerns and needs and how counseling can best support you!
Please feel free to reach out via email or phone for a free 15 minute consultation!
I utilize approaches such as Gestalt, parts work, trauma-focused modalities, DBT, and ACT in sessions.
Hello and welcome, thanks for visiting my page! The decision to start counseling can be daunting and I want to congratulate you in taking the first steps! My name is Brie Scott and I’m an LGBTQ+ Licensed Counselor in both Washington and Idaho. My specialties include but are not limited to: Trauma, ADHD/Autism, Depression, Anxiety, LGBTQIA+ topics, as well as other mood disorders/diagnoses. When we meet, our sessions will focus on your concerns and needs and how counseling can best support you!
Please feel free to reach out via email or phone for a free 15 minute consultation!
All of you is welcome here! The silver branch is an invitation to transformation in Irish mythology, and my heartfelt offer of support to you. I integrate evidence-based approaches with easy-going warmth. A session with me is affirming, non-judgmental and collaborative, which means that you and I create goals together for treatment that respond to your needs. Counseling should make sense to you, lift you up, empower you, and generate safe accountability.
My style is trauma-informed and attuned to the needs of highly sensitive people.
All of you is welcome here! The silver branch is an invitation to transformation in Irish mythology, and my heartfelt offer of support to you. I integrate evidence-based approaches with easy-going warmth. A session with me is affirming, non-judgmental and collaborative, which means that you and I create goals together for treatment that respond to your needs. Counseling should make sense to you, lift you up, empower you, and generate safe accountability.
My style is trauma-informed and attuned to the needs of highly sensitive people.
The LICSW is the top tier of licensure for the profession of social work. It signifies expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and mental disorders based on advanced knowledge of human development, the causation and treatment of psychopathology, psychotherapeutic treatment practices, and social work practice as defined in advanced social work. I've practiced as a therapist for 17 years which allows me to guide therapy quickly toward the results you deserve.
The LICSW is the top tier of licensure for the profession of social work. It signifies expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of emotional and mental disorders based on advanced knowledge of human development, the causation and treatment of psychopathology, psychotherapeutic treatment practices, and social work practice as defined in advanced social work. I've practiced as a therapist for 17 years which allows me to guide therapy quickly toward the results you deserve.
We'll work together, and I will facilitate the sessions based on my studies in CBT, solution-focused therapy, play therapy, Gestalt psychotherapy, and relational Gestalt therapy.
I help parents and caregivers have a better relationship with their 3 to 12-year-old children. I will work with you and your child to create a stronger relationship by assisting you in understanding your child's behaviors. Understanding why your child behaves in a certain way will allow you to respond to them in a more attuned, empathetic, and responsive way.
We'll work together, and I will facilitate the sessions based on my studies in CBT, solution-focused therapy, play therapy, Gestalt psychotherapy, and relational Gestalt therapy.
I help parents and caregivers have a better relationship with their 3 to 12-year-old children. I will work with you and your child to create a stronger relationship by assisting you in understanding your child's behaviors. Understanding why your child behaves in a certain way will allow you to respond to them in a more attuned, empathetic, and responsive way.
Our aim as counselors is to collaborate with clients to create a nurturing therapeutic environment in which inspiration for healing and forward movement can be found and actualized. We engage clients in the practice of life-affirming tools and actions to enhance personal and relationship functioning and well-being by: Discussing challenges; exploring feelings, thoughts and behaviors; examining options; developing skills; realizing goals; viewing relationships and family dynamics; paying attention to community, culture, and socialization; and understanding the processes of change. We do not offer legal, medical, or crisis services.
Our aim as counselors is to collaborate with clients to create a nurturing therapeutic environment in which inspiration for healing and forward movement can be found and actualized. We engage clients in the practice of life-affirming tools and actions to enhance personal and relationship functioning and well-being by: Discussing challenges; exploring feelings, thoughts and behaviors; examining options; developing skills; realizing goals; viewing relationships and family dynamics; paying attention to community, culture, and socialization; and understanding the processes of change. We do not offer legal, medical, or crisis services.
At the heart of my practice is the Hakomi method which integrates Buddhist contemplative practices, Gestalt Therapy, Parts Work, Somatic Experiencing, and Attachment Theory.
I bring to my work a deep belief in each person’s capacity to grow, learn, and heal through life’s challenges. I’m here to support you in reconnecting with your innate wisdom and strength, while offering tools to help you navigate your inner landscape with greater understanding. My approach is informed by somatic mindfulness, parts work, attachment theory, EMDR, and somatic experiencing. Together, we can explore your inner world, deepen your relationship with yourself and others, and tend to any wounds or unconscious blocks that may be holding you back.
At the heart of my practice is the Hakomi method which integrates Buddhist contemplative practices, Gestalt Therapy, Parts Work, Somatic Experiencing, and Attachment Theory.
I bring to my work a deep belief in each person’s capacity to grow, learn, and heal through life’s challenges. I’m here to support you in reconnecting with your innate wisdom and strength, while offering tools to help you navigate your inner landscape with greater understanding. My approach is informed by somatic mindfulness, parts work, attachment theory, EMDR, and somatic experiencing. Together, we can explore your inner world, deepen your relationship with yourself and others, and tend to any wounds or unconscious blocks that may be holding you back.
If you’ve struggled with depression, shame, anxiety or self-hate, have tried other therapies, and still aren’t where you want to be; if your reactions aren't changing despite all the work you’re doing; if you logically know you’re deserving of love and care, but have trouble really believing it; if you just want a better relationship with yourself and others; and if you want to enjoy life more, trusting you can face hard things and be okay, then I may be a good fit for you. I aim to provide a gender, queer and neurodiversity affirming space in which to discover, and hopefully love, your extraordinary Self.
If you’ve struggled with depression, shame, anxiety or self-hate, have tried other therapies, and still aren’t where you want to be; if your reactions aren't changing despite all the work you’re doing; if you logically know you’re deserving of love and care, but have trouble really believing it; if you just want a better relationship with yourself and others; and if you want to enjoy life more, trusting you can face hard things and be okay, then I may be a good fit for you. I aim to provide a gender, queer and neurodiversity affirming space in which to discover, and hopefully love, your extraordinary Self.
See more therapy options for Olympia
Nearby Gestalt Therapists Searches for Olympia
- Auburn
- Federal Way
- Gig Harbor
- Lacey
- Lakewood
- Port Orchard
- Puyallup
- Shelton
- Spanaway
- Tacoma
- Tumwater
- University Place
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.