Existential therapy

Existential therapy is a unique form of psychotherapy that looks to explore difficulties from a philosophical perspective, rather than taking a technique-based approach. Focusing on the human condition as a whole, existential therapy highlights concerns such as mortality, meaning, freedom, responsibility, anxiety and aloneness.

Overview

Existential therapy is a philosophical method of therapy that operates on the belief that inner conflict within a person is due to that individual's confrontation with the givens of existence. Rather than delve into past experiences, the existential approach looks forward, helping the individual to find purpose and meaning in their life.

Key Concepts

Freedom and Responsibility

Existential therapy emphasizes that we are free to choose among alternatives and must accept the consequences of our choices. This freedom to shape our lives leads to anxiety, which is a central theme in existential thought.

Isolation

Existential therapy also addresses our existential isolation, or the fact that we are ultimately alone in the world. We can share experiences, but we cannot share our personal perspective of those experiences.

Meaninglessness

The struggle for a sense of significance and purpose in life is another key concept in existential therapy. The existential therapist encourages clients to reflect on life, explore options, and create personal meaning.

Techniques

Existential therapists use a variety of techniques, including active listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. The therapist helps the client to explore their anxieties, confront their fears, and make sense of their life.

Criticisms

While existential therapy has been praised for its ability to help people explore deep existential questions, it has also been criticized. Critics argue that it lacks empirical evidence, is too abstract, and can be excessively pessimistic.

See Also

• Psychotherapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Humanistic Therapy

References

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