Existential Therapy: Embracing Meaning in Life

Existential Therapy[1] is a therapeutic approach rooted in existential philosophy that focuses on exploring the fundamental aspects of human existence, including the meaning of life, death, freedom, isolation, and the search for authenticity. It offers a powerful framework for understanding and addressing the struggles individuals face in their search for meaning, purpose, and connection in life.

The Core Principles of Existential Therapy
At its core, Existential Therapy[2] is about helping individuals confront the realities of existence and navigate the complex emotions and thoughts that arise from these realities. Unlike some other therapeutic approaches, Existential Therapy does not provide a “one-size-fits-all” set of solutions but encourages clients to explore and discover their own truths. The key principles that underpin Existential Therapy include:

1. Freedom and Responsibility: One of the most significant aspects of Existential Therapy is the focus on personal freedom[3] and responsibility. The idea is that each individual has the freedom to make choices in their life, and with that freedom comes the responsibility for the consequences of those choices. Clients are encouraged to recognize their ability to shape their own lives, while also acknowledging the inherent anxiety and uncertainty that comes with this freedom.

2. Search for Meaning: Central to Existential Therapy is the search for meaning in life.[4] Viktor Frankl, a prominent figure in Existential Therapy, emphasized that meaning can be found even in the most challenging and painful circumstances. By exploring personal values, goals, and desires, clients are empowered to find purpose and meaning in their lives, even when faced with suffering.
3. Authenticity: Existential Therapy stresses the importance of living authentically.[5] It encourages individuals to examine how societal pressures, family expectations, and other external influences may shape their behaviors and beliefs. The goal is for clients to reconnect with their true selves, shedding the layers of expectation and conformity, and live in a way that aligns with their values and desires.
4. Death and Mortality: The awareness of death is another critical component of Existential Therapy.[6] While this might seem morbid, it is actually a tool for enhancing the value of life. Existential therapists encourage clients to reflect on their own mortality in order to live more fully and meaningfully. Understanding the finite nature of life can prompt individuals to embrace the present moment and prioritize what truly matters to them.
5. Isolation: Existential Therapy also addresses the concept of existential isolation[7]—the feeling that, despite being surrounded by others, we are ultimately alone in our experience of the world. This realization can lead to anxiety, but it can also be a pathway to deeper self-understanding and connection with others. By exploring these feelings of isolation, individuals can learn to cultivate more meaningful and authentic relationships.

The Therapeutic Process in Existential Therapy
In Existential Therapy, the therapeutic relationship is characterized by deep empathy, genuine connection, and a non-judgmental approach. The therapist helps the client confront existential concerns, offering a safe space to explore complex and often uncomfortable emotions. The therapist does not provide direct solutions but instead guides the client through their own exploration of meaning and purpose.

The process often involves:

1. Reflection: The therapist helps the client reflect on their life choices, values, and beliefs. This may involve examining areas where the client feels unfulfilled or disconnected.[8]
2. Confronting Fear and Anxiety: A significant portion of Existential Therapy is devoted to confronting existential fears, such as the fear of death, freedom, and isolation. Rather than avoiding these anxieties[9], clients are encouraged to face them head-on and explore how they shape their experiences.
3. Exploring Values and Goals: The therapist works with the client to clarify their core values and life goals.[10] This exploration helps individuals make conscious choices that align with their authentic self, fostering a sense of meaning and direction.
4. Embracing Uncertainty: Existential Therapy encourages embracing the uncertainty and ambiguity of life.[11] Clients learn to live with the discomfort of not having all the answers, focusing instead on the process of discovery and growth.

Benefits of Existential Therapy
Existential Therapy offers several potential benefits[12] for individuals struggling with existential crises, feelings of meaninglessness, or anxiety related to freedom, death, and isolation:

1. Increased Self-Awareness: By examining their thoughts, values, and behaviors, individuals develop a deeper understanding of themselves, which can lead to greater self-acceptance and personal growth.
2. Enhanced Sense of Purpose: Through the exploration of meaning, individuals may find a greater sense of purpose in their lives, helping them move past feelings of emptiness or disillusionment.
3. Improved Relationships: By confronting existential isolation and developing a more authentic sense of self, individuals can build more meaningful and connected relationships with others.
4. Empowerment: Existential Therapy encourages individuals to take ownership of their lives and choices, fostering a sense of empowerment and the ability to create positive change.

Conclusion
Existential Therapy is a powerful therapeutic approach that helps individuals confront the profound questions of existence and find meaning, purpose, and authenticity in their lives. By exploring themes such as freedom, responsibility, death, and isolation, clients can deepen their self-awareness and develop a greater understanding of their unique place in the world. Through this process, Existential Therapy fosters resilience, empowerment, and a greater capacity to navigate the complexities of life with authenticity and meaning.

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

[2] Amphlett, Catherine. “An existential approach to therapy: Core values and therapeutic principles.” Innovations in Psychosocial Interventions for Psychosis. Routledge, 2015. 111-128.

[3] Todres, Les. “Experiential–Existential Therapy: Embodying Freedom and Vulnerability.” Existential Therapy. Routledge, 2012. 67-80.

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

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

[6] Berry-Smith, Stephen Frederick. Death, freedom, isolation and meaninglessness and the existential psychotherapy of Irvin D. Yalom. Diss. Auckland University of Technology, 2012.

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

[8] Sotskova, Alina, and Kimberly Dossett. “Teaching integrative existential psychotherapy: Student and supervisor reflections on using an integrative approach early in clinical training.” The Humanistic Psychologist 45.2 (2017): 122.

[9] Sabzevari, Parisa, et al. “The effectiveness of existential therapy intervention on anxiety caused by Coronavirus and Death.” Clinical Cancer Investigation Journal 11.1-2022 (2022): 1-7.

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

[11] Dwan, Conor, and Carla Willig. “Existential uncertainty in health care: A concept analysis.” Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice 27.3 (2021): 562-570.

[12] 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.