Intersectional Relational Gestalt Therapy
Gauri Savla, Ph.D.
Clinical Psychologist (California License Number: PSY 25907)

I was born in Mumbai, India, and lived there until I moved to the United States in December 2000. My pronouns are she/her/hers.

English is my first and preferred language.  I am a clinical psychologist, licensed to practice psychotherapy in the state of California (License Number: PSY 25907). I have a Ph.D. from the Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology at and the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and San Diego State University (SDSU). I also have two masters degrees in Clinical Psychology from the University of Mumbai, India and SDSU, respectively. I began my career in psychology in an academic research setting at UCSD and completed research and clinical fellowships at UCSD, the University of California, San Francisco, and the San Diego Veterans Health Administration System (i.e., the VA Hospital).

I have worked directly with individuals living with a wide range of emotional and cognitive challenges in outpatient and inpatient (hospital) settings for 27 years. This is my 12th year in private practice.  I have co-authored over 30 peer-reviewed articles in scientific journals and book chapters,  based on my research on schizophrenia, neuropsychology, and aging, conducted at UCSD. 

However, my clinical skills and expertise are less the product of my prestigious research training, and more the result of the tutelage, supervision, and wisdom of the many skilled clinicians with whom I have trained and/or who provide valuable consultation. I am affiliated with the extraordinary Pacific Gestalt Institute in Los Angeles, and participate in ongoing rigorous training and consultation with their faculty, and with Relational Gestalt colleagues both in the United States and abroad. 

I have a special love for and extensive experience with seniors navigating aging-related challenges. However, I also love working with young adults who are exploring their identity and personal growth in a world that can often feel scary and shaming. My practice comprises adults of all backgrounds, cultures, genders, partner-preferences, and socioeconomic backgrounds, ranging in age from 18 to 100 years.​

When I am not immersed in Gestalt-related activities, I enjoy spending time with my loved ones, reading, writing, cooking, walking my dogs, spending time outdoors, and traveling. In the spirit of ongoing personal growth, I have been in relational therapy myself for many years. ​