Introductory Program
Anyone with an interest in Gestalt therapy may apply to our 1-year program. Those clinicians who already have an active practice but want to add to their knowledge and skills will find our program challenging and exciting. Also, people from allied fields such as business consulting, coaching, public relations, body work and others can add to their professional skill set in our Introductory Program.
We are offering a hybrid training option, for those who cannot attend classes in person. We will be conducting on-site Friday evening classes for all who are able to attend.
LMSWs and LCSWs earn 20-30 NYS-Approved CE contact hours for all courses in the Introductory Program.
LMHCs, LCATs, and LMFTs may earn an additional 20 NYS-Approved CE contact should they attend the Lifebridge retreat.
The “Core” Curriculum
The Core Curriculum is an integral part of training. Level I Coursework and experiential work — including practicum, faculty demonstrations, and personal therapy — forms the core of our training curriculum. Trainees in the Introductory Program do not see clients in our low-fee clinic.
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Practicum
Practicum sessions provide trainees with the opportunity to work as a patient with a Clinical Fellowship or Psychoanalytic Program trainee acting as therapist, under the moment-to-moment supervision of a faculty member. During this 2-hour class, students join those from other levels in training to work in small groups. Therapist/client dyads are under the observation of an experienced supervisor who will intervene as needed to offer support, answer question, and challenge the therapist within their individual learning goals. After each session, the work is related to Gestalt theory through discussion and dialogue.
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Demonstrations by Faculty
Every meeting of your second semester, a Faculty member will do a live therapy demonstration with a trainee, in front of a small group, providing the opportunity to observe and discuss the application of Gestalt theory to Gestalt therapy practice. Faculty member demonstrations vary, to allow exposure to as many Faculty as possible.
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Individual and Group Therapy
Each trainee’s personal therapy experience provides a first-hand experience of Gestalt therapy and a forum for working through issues that may emerge as a part of an in-depth program that calls upon trainees to explore themselves on many levels.
Coursework
Introductory Program Admission
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Admission to all programs is based on review your application and personal interview. For further information, contact us.
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To assure early consideration, please complete our application form by 8/31. Once received, we will contact you to arrange a personal interview.
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Click on the “Apply Today” button to view the application. You’ll be asked to upload:
Official Copies of Academic Transcripts and Professional Credentials
Updated Resume
Two Letters of Reference, Including One from a Current or Recent Therapist, if Applicable.
After you submit your application, you’ll be redirected to pay the $50 application fee.
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Upon Receipt of your application and fee, you will be contacted for a personal interview by our Director of Training, and a member of our Faculty.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Our academic year runs from October through June. Classes take place on 20 Friday evenings from 6-9 p.m. and include a few additional seminars and workshops offered throughout the year.
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Trainees in our Introductory Program do not see clients in our Clinic. You may want to look into our Clinical Fellowship Program or, if you’re preparing to get licensed, our Psychoanalytic Program.
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Friday Night Courses & Practicum: $3700 per year / no materials fee.
Weekly Psychotherapy: Trainees must attend either group therapy or individual therapy. Fees for therapy are arranged privately with the individual or group therapist.
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We offer partial scholarships for our four-year training programs, but not for the Introductory Program. Learn more and apply for a scholarship or donate to our scholarship fund.
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Anyone with an interest in Gestalt therapy may apply to our 1-year program. Those clinicians who already have an active practice but want to add to their knowledge and skills will find our program challenging and exciting. Also, people from allied fields such as business consulting, coaching, public relations, body work and others can add to their professional skill set in our Introductory Program.