Existential Therapy
Finding Meaning and Authenticity
Existential Therapy
Existential therapy focuses on the fundamental questions of life purpose and self-identity. Drawing considerable inspiration from philosophy and classic literature in addition to psychology, existential therapy is rooted in a rich tradition of thought. At the center of this approach is a question: how can we live a life that is meaningful, fulfilling, and authentic to our true selves?
Defining Your Own Identity
Existential therapists believe that the individual, and the individual alone, has the power to define their own identity and the meaning of their own life. We work alongside our clients toward the realization of these personal goals.
Because existential therapy puts a special emphasis on personal freedom and self-expression, therapists who incorporate this approach into their sessions do not confine clients to simple labels or diagnoses. Instead, they encourage you to see yourself as a multifaceted, unique, and ever-changing individual.
This shift in mindset helps you to trust yourself and seek an identity that truly comes from within.
Breaking Free from Limiting Beliefs
As children, we unknowingly take on the beliefs of those around us as our own, continuing to see ourselves and our world from this viewpoint long into adulthood. These foundational, external beliefs can be separated into two categories:
Self-Affirming Beliefs
These beliefs lead to a healthy sense of self-esteem and self-ownership, and give us the courage we need to embrace our true selves. If our environment encouraged us to trust in our own intuition and to follow our own life path, we are closer to actualizing ourselves as happy, authentic individuals.
Self-Limiting Beliefs
Unfortunately common, these beliefs often lead to self-doubt and confusion, leading us further and further away from our authentic selves. When an external belief is self-limiting, it can cause us to distrust our own intuition and to fear asserting ourselves in an authentic and healthy way.
By examining these internalized beliefs with an existential therapist, you can begin to shed what no longer serves you and reclaim your own voice.
Is Existential Therapy Right for You?
Existential therapy is particularly helpful for individuals who:
Feel "lost" in life or lack a clear sense of identity.
Are navigating major life transitions or questioning their purpose.
Feel stuck in cycles of self-doubt caused by external expectations.
Seek to live more authentically and make choices aligned with their true values.