Ep # 137 Talk Therapy Transforms Lives Beyond the Traditional Couch

Ever wondered what makes therapy actually work? Dr. Kaley Gerstley peels back the curtain on the therapeutic relationship that drives healing in our conversation on the Good Neighbor Podcast. With her doctorate from the University of Pennsylvania and over a decade in mental health, Dr. Gerstley brings both expertise and warmth to a profession that's rapidly evolving.

The pandemic transformed Dr. Gerstley's practice in unexpected ways. Though she once believed she'd work in-office her entire career, COVID pushed her practice online—and the results surprised everyone. Her clients' attendance improved dramatically without commuting barriers, and they unanimously chose to continue virtually when given the option to return in-person. This shift reflects broader changes in how we approach mental wellness in today's world.

At the heart of Dr. Gerstley's approach is what she calls the "relational framework"—the understanding that healing happens primarily through authentic connection. Unlike more formulaic therapeutic approaches, this relationship-centered method creates a space where clients can practice difficult conversations and experience healthy interactions that model what's possible in their everyday relationships. Dr. Gerstley works primarily with adults navigating life transitions, performers (particularly opera singers), and women dealing with body image concerns.

Perhaps most encouraging is how therapy has evolved from the Woody Allen analyst stereotype to something mainstream—where Olympic athletes openly discuss their mental health support before winning gold medals. This cultural shift has made therapy more accessible, though building meaningful community connections remains challenging in our increasingly isolated world. As Dr. Gerstley notes, helping clients build those vital connections has become a cornerstone of her work.

Ready to explore what therapy might look like for you? Visit talktherapywithkaylee.com to learn more about Dr. Gerstley's virtual practice serving New York and New Jersey residents.

Talk Therapy with Kaley

 Dr. Kaley Gerstley

[email protected]
(201) 514-6379

talktherapywithkaley.com