By We discuss the therapeutic approach based on the existentialist philosophical current, where reflections on topics such as death, responsibility and the meaning of life drive the individual to action.
Regardless of your origin or the circumstances of your upbringing, the very fact of existing throws you into a game of universal challenges: freedom, responsibility, death and meaninglessness. These are all common sufferings that we share and that sometimes need to be addressed in existential psychotherapy.
Under the premise that “happiness is the simple harmony between human beings and the lives they lead,” this approach seeks to guide people to actively confront their problems and cultivate an authentic and meaningful life. Let’s see what else it covers.
What is existential psychotherapy?
When we talk about existential psychotherapy we refer to a method that integrates phenomenology in the understanding of subjective experience and existentialist philosophical foundations, to address issues and concerns inherent to life.
The approach is considered part of the humanistic psychological current . Its methodology does not follow a rigid set of techniques, but is adapted to individual needs. In this case, deep dialogue, reflection on the present moment and exploration of meanings and personal decision-making are encouraged .
Man is condemned to be free; because once thrown into the world, he is responsible for everything he does.
~ Jean Paul Sartre ~
Main references of existentialism
As a philosophical movement, existentialism emphasizes individual freedom, responsibility, and the search for meaning in life. Some of the main thinkers who have shaped these ideas are Albert Camus, Jean-Paul Sartre , Martin Heidegger, Søren Kierkegaard , and Simone de Beauvoir .
Intellectuals of this stature left a profound philosophical legacy and their contributions not only resonate in the academic arena; they also provided a solid foundation in the field of psychological therapy.
From philosophy to psychotherapy
Figures such as Irvin D. Yalom , Viktor Frankl and Rollo May brought these ideas into the practical realm of psychotherapy, showing how they can be applied in a clinical context. Yalom identifies four existential concerns that generate anxiety and internal conflict: death, freedom, isolation and lack of meaning.
Austrian psychiatrist Viktor Frankl , creator of logotherapy , focuses on the search for meaning as an essential motivating force. In his main work he narrates his experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps, with an emphasis on the importance of finding a valuable purpose, even in adverse times.
As for Rollo May , he played an essential role in the introduction and development of this psychotherapy in the United States. He highlighted our duality as individuals by emphasizing that we are “objects,” affected by external factors; and “subjects,” active agents capable of making decisions that impact reality.
In turn, acceptance and commitment therapy ( ACT), belonging to the third wave, shares affinities with existentialism by proposing that the individual commit to his or her personal values and thus find meaning in his or her existence.
Stages of existential psychological therapy
In order to carry out this approach, the first phase consists of creating a bond of trust between the patient and the therapist. This alliance is crucial for the process to be effective. In addition, the reasons for consultation are explored and the objectives and expectations are defined. Although there is no fixed number of sessions, it covers at least the first four meetings.
In the second stage, both parties collaborate and focus on the treatment itself. This involves a deeper analysis of the concerns , values, and patterns of behavior and thoughts of the person seeking help.
Emotional resources and areas for improvement are also identified, always with the aim of promoting well-being. The duration of this stage also varies depending on the complexity of the issues to be addressed, the client’s willingness to work on them, and the effectiveness of the therapeutic interventions.
The final stage represents a transition towards autonomy, but does not imply that the person is exempt from future challenges. This period is reached when the patient and the therapist consider that the established objectives have been achieved and that the individual has acquired sufficient emotional equipment to face life’s challenges independently.
Scenarios where existential psychotherapy is useful
A common question is in which cases this type of therapy is useful. Although these are not the only valid circumstances, let’s analyze in which situations you would get the most benefit from this approach.
1. You are plagued by questions about the meaning of your life
Do you feel immersed in a sea of unanswered questions? Is figuring out the reason for your existence almost impossible? In those moments when the meaning of life becomes blurred, this type of psychotherapy acts as a compass. Instead of wandering lost in the fog of questions, therapy invites you to explore the deepest part of your being.
2. You are going through a phase of significant changes
If you’re in a time of flux and feel like the ground beneath you is constantly shifting, it might be the perfect time to explore this approach.
You may be considering a career change, a move to another city or country, or you may be facing changes in your relationships. You may see a stimulating future full of opportunities, but it may be a very overwhelming phase. In these contexts, uncertainty looms large.
3. You feel dissatisfaction or disconnection with life
Existential therapy is effective for depression . The goal is to relieve distress, regain a sense of vitality, and reconnect with life by focusing on the here and now. In addition to reducing symptoms, it also seeks to promote a transformation in how you perceive and relate to the world.
4. You want to work on existential sufferings like freedom or death
If you are among those people who have a natural tendency to question and explore the nuances of existence on a deeper level, then this psychotherapeutic approach is for you.
Broadly speaking, these questions relate to the finiteness of life , the ability to choose and the associated responsibility, as well as the understanding of love in all its forms. These are aspects explored in the context of existentialism.
5. You experience an identity crisis
During an identity crisis , people find themselves in a deep state of self-reflection that leads them to question values, beliefs, goals, and roles in life. Sound familiar?
Such crises often arise at times of transition or exploration of new dimensions of one’s identity. A clear example of this is adolescence, a period in which one’s individuality is forged and one seeks an understanding of who one is and what place one occupies in the world. Something similar often occurs at the time of retirement .
In which cases is it not recommended?
Without taking anything away from its value, existential psychotherapy may not be the first choice in some cases. Like any approach, it has its limitations and may be more or less suitable depending on the person and the particular situation.
For example, if you are looking for practical and strategic solutions with faster results, you might benefit from more problem-solving-oriented approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy . The same goes for those who prefer a more directive orientation, with concrete tasks and schemes.
Also, when very specific treatment is required for particular disorders, such as OCD or social anxiety , it is best to consider therapies specifically designed for those problems.
Finally, if the person does not feel comfortable or connected to existential philosophical principles, it may be more appropriate to try other therapeutic modalities that better align with their beliefs.
It should be noted that existential therapy does not seek to label or classify people into predefined diagnostic categories.
An intimate dialogue between the individual and his own existence
Existential psychotherapy is distinguished as a therapeutic approach that seeks to understand and address human challenges from a philosophical perspective.
Rather than staying on the surface of symptoms, this method aims to understand the deeper roots through existential questions about our nature and purpose. Do you dare to try it?