Understanding Existential Therapy: Embracing Meaning and Authenticity

Existential therapy[1] is a unique and profound approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes individual freedom, choice, and the search for meaning. Rooted in existential philosophy, this therapeutic modality encourages clients to confront their existential concerns, such as mortality, isolation, freedom, and the search for purpose.[2] As we delve into the principles, techniques, and applications of existential therapy, we will explore how this approach can lead to profound personal transformation and a deeper understanding of one’s life.

The Philosophical Roots of Existential Therapy
Existential therapy is influenced by various philosophical traditions, particularly the works of thinkers such as Søren Kierkegaard[3], Friedrich Nietzsche, Martin Heidegger[4], and Jean-Paul Sartre. These philosophers grappled with fundamental questions about human existence, focusing on the individual’s experience and the inherent struggles of life. Existential therapy translates these philosophical concepts into therapeutic practice, recognizing that individuals often wrestle with issues of identity, freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent universe.[5]

Core Principles of Existential Therapy

1. Freedom and Responsibility: Central to existential therapy is the idea that individuals possess the freedom to make choices and that with this freedom comes responsibility.[6] Clients are encouraged to acknowledge their capacity for choice, even in the face of difficult circumstances. This recognition can empower individuals to take ownership of their lives and decisions.
2. Search for Meaning: Existential therapy posits that the search for meaning is a fundamental aspect of the human experience.[7] Individuals often face existential crises when they feel disconnected from their purpose or experience feelings of absurdity. The therapist’s role is to facilitate exploration of these feelings and help clients find or create meaning in their lives.
3. Awareness of Mortality: Confronting the reality of mortality is a significant theme in existential therapy. Awareness of death can serve as a catalyst for personal growth, prompting individuals to evaluate their values and priorities. By acknowledging mortality, clients can gain a deeper appreciation for life and motivate themselves to live authentically.[8]
4. Authenticity and Individuality: Existential therapy emphasizes the importance of living authentically—aligning one’s actions and values. Therapists encourage clients to explore their true selves and challenge societal expectations that may lead to inauthentic living.[9] This journey towards authenticity can lead to greater satisfaction and fulfillment.
5. Isolation and Connection: Existentialists recognize that while humans are inherently social beings, each individual ultimately experiences a sense of isolation. Existential therapy addresses this paradox, encouraging clients to explore their relationships and develop a deeper understanding of their connections with others while also embracing their individuality.[10]

Techniques[11] and Applications
Existential therapy employs various techniques to facilitate exploration and reflection:

• Dialogue and Exploration: Existential therapists engage clients in open, honest dialogue, encouraging them to articulate their thoughts and feelings. This exploration fosters self-awareness and helps clients confront their existential dilemmas.
• Reflective Practices: Therapists may encourage clients to engage in reflective practices, such as journaling or meditation, to deepen their understanding of their values, beliefs, and experiences.
• Experiential Exercises: Activities that promote self-exploration and creative expression, such as art or role-playing, can be beneficial in helping clients access deeper emotions and insights.[12]
• Dream Analysis: Dreams are viewed as windows into the unconscious. Therapists may explore clients’ dreams to uncover underlying concerns and facilitate self-discovery.

Applications of Existential Therapy
Existential therapy is applicable to a wide range of psychological issues, including anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship challenges. It is particularly beneficial for individuals facing life transitions, existential crises, or those seeking a deeper understanding of their purpose.[13]

Additionally, existential therapy can be an effective approach for those grappling with terminal illness or chronic conditions, as it helps individuals confront their mortality and find meaning even in the face of suffering.

Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Existential Therapy
Existential therapy offers a profound framework for understanding the complexities of human existence. By confronting existential concerns, clients can embark on a journey toward greater self-awareness, authenticity, and meaning. This therapeutic approach empowers individuals to navigate the challenges of life with resilience, embracing their freedom and responsibility. In a world often filled with uncertainty and chaos, existential therapy provides a pathway for individuals to connect with their true selves, fostering a life rich in purpose and fulfillment.

As we reflect on the principles of existential therapy, we are reminded of the words of Viktor Frankl, a prominent existential psychologist: “Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose.” Through the lens of existential therapy, we can discover that even in our darkest moments, the search for meaning can illuminate our path forward.

Would you like to help your patients and clients find freedom, authenticity, and meaning in life? If so, save the date for our upcoming 8-week Existential Psychotherapy Certificate course starting on February 26, 2025.

[1] Van Deurzen, Emmy. “Existential therapy.” The Handbook of Individual Therapy. sixth ed. London, England: Sage (2014): 155-178.

[2] Vos, Joël, Meghan Craig, and Mick Cooper. “Existential therapies: a meta-analysis of their effects on psychological outcomes.” Journal of consulting and clinical psychology 83.1 (2015): 115.

[3] Shchyttsova, Tatiana. “KIERKEGAARD’S EXISTENTIAL THERAPY AND THE PROBLEM OF THE SUBJECT.” Topos (18150047) 1 (2014).

[4] Cohn, Hans W. “Heidegger and the roots of existential therapy.” (2002).

[5] Barnett, Laura. “The philosophical roots of existential therapies.” When death enters the therapeutic space. Routledge, 2008. 23-60.

[6] Miller, Jason. “Attaining freedom in existential group therapy.” American Journal of Psychoanalysis 38.2 (1978): 179.

[7] Wong, Paul TP. “Meaning therapy: An integrative and positive existential psychotherapy.” Journal of Contemporary Psychotherapy 40.2 (2010): 85-93.

[8] Sadri Demichi, Esmaeil, and Shokofeh Ramezani. “Effectiveness of existential therapy on loneliness and death anxiety in the elderly.” Aging Psychology 2.1 (2016): 12-1.

[9] Craig, Meghan. “To be or not to be: Understanding authenticity from an existential perspective.” Existential analysis 20.2 (2009): 292-299.

[10] Breitbart, William. “Existential isolation.” Palliative & supportive care 15.4 (2017): 403-404.

[11] Iacovou, Susan, and Karen Weixel-Dixon. Existential therapy: 100 key points and techniques. Routledge, 2015.

[12] Vanhooren, Siebrecht. “Experiential–existential psychotherapy: Deepening existence, engaging with life.” Re-visioning person-centred therapy. Routledge, 2018. 151-163.

[13] Jacobsen, Bo. Invitation to existential psychology: A psychology for the unique human being and its applications in therapy. John Wiley & Sons, 2008.