What is Existential Psychotherapy?

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Existential Psychotherapy utilizes familiar existential givens, such as the fear of death, human responsibility, and meaninglessness to engage individuals. The goal is to lead them to greater awareness of the freedom of being fully engaged in life.

Existential Psychotherapy posits that humans must recognize that, ultimately, life can have a sense of meaninglessness. Initially, this may seem like a bleak thought. But these therapists emphasize the freedom this realization brings. If life lacks meaning, people should do their best to enjoy each moment as it comes.

Another goal of Existential Psychotherapy is to reduce the anxiety that arises from questions of humanity. This type of therapy may be for you if you enjoy pondering the more challenging questions in life or you want to reduce fear about death and learn how to embrace life.

Your therapist will create a safe environment for you to ponder serious questions about the nature of humanity and your own life and death. This questioning and exploration can reduce anxiety and help you live a more authentic life.

Existential Psychotherapists believe each human is on their own journey, but a shared sense of suffering and anxiety leads to empathy for the human condition. They do not see themselves as the expert on life but will welcome you to begin your journey of pondering the ultimate truths of humanity.

Therapists Who Specialize in Using Existential Psychotherapy

When individuals experience severe life stressors and traumas, it is not out of the ordinary for their lives to unravel. As human beings we have the power to overcome our greatest obstacles, so long as effort is put in place. The pursuit of growth brings its challenges, as well as its rewards. Through personal experiences with addictions, as well as its consequences, I've come to understand its...
None of us becomes who we are in isolation. We'll work together in a safe and collaborative environment to set and follow the trajectory toward your own definition of success. I have experience with anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and trauma. A specialty of my practice is working with transgender and gender nonconforming individuals and their families.
I work with adolescents and adults suffering from mood and anxiety disorders, complex trauma, women’s issues, narcissistic abuse, attachment issues, and personality disorders. I also work with couples to improve communication, develop healthy conflict-resolution skills, and create a long-term family vision and mission that restores harmony in everyday life.

Deborah Danner, Ph.D., LCPC, CADC, NCC

Rolling Meadows

Illinois

Deborah Danner has numerous certifications in trauma treatment and focuses sessions on helping you become more empowered in your life. She uses gentleness, honesty, and awareness to help previously ignored parts of you be heard. Patience and self-compassion are the centers of her therapy sessions. Her ultimate goal is to help you regain control of your life and love yourself.

Dr. John Meigs

Brookline

Massachusetts

***I am not currently accepting new patients*** I am a licensed psychologist, with an emphasis on treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. I completed a clinical internship within the VA hospital system and a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School. I approach therapy from a relational stance with a focus on helping you gain insight into your relationship patterns and…

Dr Mary Muhammad LPC, CSAC

Brown Deer

Wisconsin

Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better. - Maya Angelou. Mary offers an alternative and complementary approach to therapy. Mary brings spirituality, eastern ideology, western ideology, and overall practicality together to create a holistic approach to wellness.We all are on a journey and Mary looks to walk with clients on their journey of exploration and ...