Chapter 4: Existential Therapies

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Alright, get ready everyone, because we are diving deep today.

Into Existential Therapy.

Ooh, that sounds intense.

You're not wrong.

It can be pretty deep, but stick with me.

It can also be, well, surprisingly hopeful and relatable.

Okay, I'm intrigued.

So think about this.

Imagine feeling completely lost.

Like you've failed at everything.

Your job, your relationships even,

like life itself.

Yeah, I think most people can relate to that feeling at some point.

Exactly.

And existential therapy.

Well, it isn't about just, you know, fixing those so -called failures.

So it's not about offering those quick fixes or easy answers.

Nope.

It's about something much deeper.

More about finding meaning, even purpose, in the middle of all of that.

That's a great way to put it.

It's not about running from the tough stuff, but learning how to navigate it so you can live a more authentic and meaningful life.

And to really grasp this approach, we need to understand where it came from.

Exactly.

So for this deep dive, you were kind enough to share a chapter with me from a psychotherapy textbook all about existential therapies.

And it actually starts with the historical backdrop.

Did I get that right?

You did.

And it's a pretty fascinating starting point, too.

Imagine the world right after World Wars I and II.

Millions of people were grappling with death, loss, and this overwhelming sense of meaninglessness.

It's like, what's the point of it all?

That makes sense.

After experiencing such widespread destruction and loss, it's natural to question everything.

Absolutely.

And existentialism, first as like a philosophy and then as a form of therapy, emerged from this chaos.

It offered a way to grapple with these huge, like universal questions that suddenly felt very real and very urgent.

Wow.

So from those incredibly difficult circumstances, this new way of thinking about therapy emerged.

The chapter also mentions this guy Ludwig Binswanger.

Yes.

Binswanger was a fascinating figure.

He truly believed that those crises we all face are actually choice points, opportunities to redefine ourselves and our direction.

He even went so far as to accept a patient's suicide as a legitimate choice, highlighting the radical emphasis on individual freedom and responsibility at the heart of existential therapy.

Oh, that's intense.

It's not about trying to prevent every bad outcome, but about respecting people's autonomy to make their own choices, even the tough ones.

Exactly.

And then there's Medard Boss, who he focused on integrating existentialism with psychoanalysis.

But without letting theory overshadow the patient's actual experience, it's about meeting the patient where they are, listening to their unique perspective and understanding their world without imposing preconceived notions or interpretations.

It sounds like the focus is really on the individual's lived experience rather than fitting them into some pre -existing theoretical box.

Absolutely.

And of course, we have Rallamay, who brought these ideas to the U .S.

His own struggles with mortality due to tuberculosis deeply influenced his writings.

You can feel that personal search for meaning woven throughout his work, which makes it all the more powerful and relatable.

It's like his personal struggles gave birth to this new way of understanding and approaching therapy.

OK, so we've got this historical context and these pioneers who paved the way.

But what about existential therapy itself?

How does it actually view personality?

That's a great question.

And this is where things get interesting.

You see, existentialists aren't big on the word personality, at least not as a fixed, unchanging thing.

Instead, they see existence as this dynamic process of becoming.

It's not about who you are, but who you are choosing to be in this very moment.

So it's less about labels and categories, and more about the active, ongoing process of shaping your own existence.

Exactly.

And a key concept here is being in the world.

It's this idea that we're not separate from our environment, we're interwoven with it.

Our choices, experiences, anxieties, they're all shaped by our surroundings.

And in turn, we shape our surroundings.

Think about it.

Even something as simple as being on a beach can be experienced in drastically different ways depending on the person.

Right.

Some people are ecstatic, some are terrified of the vastness, and some are calculating how many condos they can build.

It's all about our perception, right?

Shaped by everything we bring to that experience.

Exactly.

It's not a neutral backdrop, it's an active interplay between you and the world around you.

And to better understand this, the chapter breaks down our world into three levels of existence, umwelt, mittwelt, and eigenwelt.

Okay, those are some big words, let's unpack them.

What does umwelt mean?

Think of umwelt as your relationship with the physical world, nature, your body, your senses.

It's how you react to a rainstorm, a crowded city, or a peaceful forest.

It's deeply personal and influenced by your values, fears, and past experiences.

It's your unique way of being in nature.

So my love of hiking and your fear of spiders are both examples of umwelt.

Exactly.

Then there's mittwelt, which is all about your social world.

Your relationships with others.

This level highlights how we're constantly aware of others judging us.

It often leads to being for others, trying to please and fit in instead of being for ourselves, expressing our true selves.

Oh, I know that feeling.

Like being at a party and agreeing with someone's opinion you don't actually share, just to avoid conflict.

Precisely.

And finally, there's eigenwelt, which is your relationship with yourself, your thoughts, feelings, self -reflection.

This one can be tough because it requires real introspection, confronting both the good and bad about yourself.

So if we're looking at all three levels of being nature, others, and ourselves, what does that tell us about the existential view of a healthy personality?

The key is authenticity.

It's not about being perfect or meeting some external standard, but about being true to yourself, even when it's difficult.

It's about embracing all three levels of being in a way that feels integrated and whole.

I love that.

So authenticity is the goal.

But let's be real.

It's not always easy to achieve.

Why do we struggle with being our authentic selves?

Why do we hide parts of ourselves and avoid being truly seen?

Well, the chapter dives into this concept of existential anxiety, which explains why we sometimes shy away from authenticity.

Paul Tillich outlined four sources of this anxiety, and they're pretty profound.

Okay, I'm ready.

Lay them on me.

What are these big, scary sources of existential anxiety?

First, there's our awareness of death.

We know our existence will end, and that can be terrifying.

The chapter has this chilling anecdote about a four -year -old boy who drowned, and it's a visceral reminder of how fragile and finite life really is.

Wow, that's heavy.

It's like that fear of the unknown, the ultimate unknown, just hanging over our heads.

Exactly.

Then there's the anxiety that comes with having to act, with making choices that shape our lives.

We never really know the outcome.

We're constantly making these leaps of faith, hoping for the best, but knowing we could fail.

Yeah, I know that feeling.

Every big decision feels like a potential disaster waiting to happen.

Right.

And then there's the fear of meaninglessness.

What if everything we believe in, everything we strive for, turns out to be pointless in the grand scheme of things?

It's a question that philosophers have grappled with for centuries, and one that each of us must confront in our own way.

It's like that feeling of being adrift in a vast and indifferent universe, with no compass and no destination.

Definitely not a fun feeling.

And lastly, there's our fundamental isolation.

No matter how close we are to others, there's always a part of us that remains separate, unknowable.

It's a lonely realization, highlighting both the uniqueness of our individual experiences and the importance of finding ways to truly connect, even within the boundaries of our isolation.

Okay, so we've got deaf,

the need to act,

meaninglessness, and isolation.

Honestly, it's no wonder we try to avoid these feelings.

They're pretty intense.

Of course.

It's natural to want to protect ourselves from these difficult emotions.

The problem, according to existential therapy, is that we often do this through lying.

Lying, really.

I'm not sure I follow.

Okay, think about it.

In this context, lying isn't about intentionally deceiving others.

It's more about, like, escaping the truth of our existence.

We might tell ourselves if we just work hard enough, we can avoid failure, or if we're good enough, everyone will love us.

You know, we create these comforting illusions to shield ourselves from life's harsh realities.

So it's like we're building these fortresses of denial to protect ourselves from the existential storm outside.

But that's not really a sustainable solution, is it?

Exactly.

These defenses might provide temporary relief, but they keep us trapped in inauthenticity and neurotic anxiety.

So how does this lying actually show up in our lives?

Can you give some specific examples?

Sure.

The chapter talks about how lying can manifest at different levels of being.

Lying in nature, for instance, could look like someone with hypochondria, constantly fearing illness and trying to control their health through excessive doctor visits and self -monitoring.

They're essentially denying their vulnerability and trying to bargain with nature.

That's a great example.

They're trying to follow all the rules, hoping to, like, cheat the system and avoid getting sick.

Right.

Then there's lying for others, putting on a facade to gain approval.

It's like that person who's constantly seeking validation and praise, changing who they are to fit in or avoid rejection.

They're so afraid of being truly known, flaws and all, that they hide behind a carefully crafted persona.

Ouch.

That hits close to home.

I think we've all been there at some point, especially in a society that values image over authenticity.

Absolutely.

And finally, there's lying for ourselves, the most insidious form.

This is about believing our own lies, denying parts of ourselves we deem unacceptable.

Someone might deny their own anger, for instance, to preserve an idealized self -image, but that anger doesn't disappear.

It festers and manifests in unhealthy ways.

Wow.

So we're trying to escape existential anxiety by weaving these webs of lies, and those lies end up shaping how we experience the world and ourselves.

It's a vicious cycle.

Exactly.

And that's where existential therapy comes in.

It helps people confront these anxieties, break free from lying, and start living more honestly and authentically.

That sounds incredibly powerful.

But how does that actually happen?

What are the therapeutic processes involved in existential therapy?

It all starts with courage and honesty.

The goal isn't to fix problems or offer easy solutions, but to increase consciousness.

It's about helping clients become aware of their lies, their defenses, and the ways they've closed themselves off from authentic experience.

It's like shining a light on those dark corners we've been trying so hard to avoid.

So no quick fixes here.

It's about deep, internal work and facing those uncomfortable truths.

Exactly.

It's a journey, and it can be incredibly liberating.

It allows people to reclaim their agency and start making choices aligned with their true selves.

Okay, but how does this play out in therapy?

What techniques are used?

Interestingly enough, the chapter emphasizes that techniques are less important in existential therapy than the authentic therapist -client relationship.

It's about creating a safe and supportive space where clients feel truly seen and heard.

It's not about having all the answers or giving advice, but about being a compassionate guide who walks alongside the client on their journey of self -discovery.

It's like the therapist is more of a co -explorer than an expert, which makes sense given the focus on the client's unique experience.

Exactly.

It's a genuine human encounter, not a clinical intervention.

But there are some key aspects of the process.

The chapter highlights consciousness -raising and choosing as two of the core elements.

Okay, let's start with consciousness -raising.

What's the client's role in this process?

It's all about being open to experiencing and expressing what's present without judgment.

It's about allowing yourself to feel your emotions fully, even the uncomfortable ones, and to honestly explore your thoughts and motivations.

It's giving yourself permission to be fully human with all the messiness that entails.

That sounds both freeing and a bit terrifying, to be honest.

But how does the therapist help facilitate this?

They create a space of deep listening and understanding, using reflection and clarification to help the client articulate their experiences and see them more clearly.

Sometimes they might use confrontation, but it's always done from a place of genuine care, offering honest reactions to challenge the client's lies and defenses.

It's like gently nudging them towards a deeper awareness of themselves.

Exactly.

And through this process, clients can start to see patterns in their behavior, notice where they've closed themselves off, and gain a deeper understanding of their inner world.

Okay, so consciousness -raising is about becoming more aware.

But what about choosing?

How does that fit in?

Well, the chapter emphasizes that choice is inherent to existence.

We're constantly making choices, from the mundane to the life -altering.

The problem is, we often avoid making conscious, authentic choices because of fear, guilt, or the desire to please others.

So therapy is about helping clients reclaim their power to choose, to become the authors of their own lives.

Exactly.

The therapist helps clarify choices and understand the consequences.

But ultimately, the client is responsible for the decision.

It's about empowerment, but it definitely takes courage to embrace that freedom.

I can imagine.

Making choices can be scary, especially when we're facing those big existential questions.

Absolutely.

But the rewards can be profound.

When we start making choices that are aligned with our values and desires, we can experience a sense of purpose and fulfillment we might never have thought possible.

This is all so fascinating.

I'm ready to dive deeper into what's actually discussed in therapy.

What are the key themes or areas of focus?

Let's start with interpersonal conflicts, the anxieties, defenses, and struggles within ourselves.

This is where we see that core existential tension between being and non -being really play out.

So back to that fear of death and the anxiety that comes with knowing our existence is limited.

Precisely.

The focus is on how clients cope with that anxiety.

What are their defenses?

How do they avoid those uncomfortable truths?

It's like they're trying to outrun their own mortality.

In a way, yes.

And the chapter highlights how existential therapy differs from Freudian theory in its understanding of anxiety.

Freud saw anxiety as a signal of repressed impulses or conflicts between the id, ego, and superego.

Existential therapy, however, sees anxiety as a natural response to our awareness of death,

meaninglessness, isolation,

and the freedom and responsibility to make choices.

So it's not just about internal psychological conflicts, but about our fundamental relationship to existence itself.

Exactly.

And the key to dealing with this existential anxiety isn't to eliminate it, but to find the courage to accept it as an inherent part of being human.

When we stop running from it and embrace it, we can find a sense of peace and freedom.

That sounds like a tall order.

But I guess it's about turning that fear into a catalyst for growth.

Exactly.

It's about channeling that energy into creating our more meaningful and authentic life.

Now I'm curious about how existential therapy views self -esteem.

It makes a clear distinction between self -esteem and social esteem.

True self -esteem comes from within, from our self -evaluation, not from how others perceive us.

It's not about seeking validation or trying to meet some external standard of worthiness, but about developing a strong internal sense of self -worth that's independent of external approval.

That's incredibly empowering.

It's about being okay with who you are, flaws and all.

Exactly.

And it's a process of self -exploration, self -acceptance, and living in alignment with your values.

And what about responsibility?

That seems to be a big theme in existential therapy.

It is.

Responsibility is huge.

It's about recognizing that we are the authors of our own lives.

We make choices, and those choices have consequences.

We can't blame our circumstances or other people for our unhappiness.

So it's about owning our choices, even the ones we regret.

Absolutely.

It's about acknowledging our agency, even in difficult circumstances.

And with that agency comes a sense of empowerment and the possibility for change.

But what about guilt?

If we're always emphasizing responsibility, doesn't that lead to a lot of guilt?

It's a good question.

Existential therapy talks about existential guilt,

which is different from the guilt we feel when we break a rule.

Existential guilt is about making choices that go against our values or our potential for authentic being.

It's like we're betraying ourselves.

So it's that feeling of knowing you could have chosen differently, and feeling the weight of that unrealized possibility.

Exactly.

And the first step to dealing with this kind of guilt is acknowledging it and taking responsibility for our choices.

It's about facing our mistakes, learning from them, and using those experiences to make different choices in the future.

It's about transforming that negative energy into something positive and empowering.

I love that.

It's all about growth.

And speaking of growth, it's important to remember that we don't exist in isolation.

Existential therapy also delves into interpersonal conflicts and how we relate to others.

That's a great point.

I'm ready to dive into that.

How does existential therapy address our relationships with others?

One of the key themes is intimacy, true deep connection.

The chapter talks about Bulber's concept of the I -thou relationship, where two individuals see each other as whole and complete beings.

It's based on mutual recognition and respect.

That sounds amazing, but also pretty rare.

How many of our relationships are truly based on that level of understanding?

It's definitely not the norm.

The chapter contrasts the I -thou relationship with I -it and -it relationships, which are much more superficial and transactional.

In these types of relationships, we're not truly seeing the other person.

We're relating to them as objects or roles.

It's like we're reducing people to functions or categories instead of recognizing their full humanity.

No wonder those relationships can feel so limiting.

Exactly.

And when we talk about relationships, we have to talk about communication.

Existentialism recognizes that communication is inherently challenging.

We're all isolated in our own subjective experiences.

And language can be a clumsy tool for bridging that gap.

Oh, tell me about it.

It often feels like I'm trying to translate my inner world into words and hoping the other person gets the right translation.

It doesn't always work.

Right.

And that can lead to a sense of guilt, knowing that we can never fully understand or be understood by another person.

But this guilt can also motivate us to be more mindful and compassionate in our communication to really listen deeply and speak honestly.

It's about recognizing the limitations of language while still striving to use it to foster connection rather than further isolation.

Exactly.

And when it comes to challenges in relationships, existential therapy also addresses hostility and control.

Oh, I'm interested to hear about that.

Well, hostility is seen as a threat to being.

It's destructive and can destroy relationships and even lives.

But it's also recognized as a natural response to feeling threatened or violated.

It's important to understand the roots of hostility and find healthier ways to express those feelings.

So it's not about pretending anger doesn't exist, but learning to express it in a way that's constructive rather than destructive.

Exactly.

As for control, existential therapy sees it as a form of violence, especially when it's used to manipulate or dominate others.

The focus is on respecting the freedom and autonomy of others, even when their choices are different from our own.

It's about letting go of that need to control others and recognizing that true connection comes from mutual respect.

Exactly.

Wow.

We've covered a lot of ground already.

From the historical context of existential therapy to those key concepts of being in the world and authenticity, the four sources of existential anxiety and how lying can be a defense against those anxieties.

We've even explored those early stages of the therapeutic process, focusing on consciousness raising and choosing, and touched on interpersonal and interpersonal conflicts.

You got it.

It's been quite a journey so far.

It really has.

And you know what?

I'm actually feeling a bit lighter than I expected.

I thought we were going to be diving into a pit of despair, but this is surprisingly hopeful.

Existential therapy can feel heavy at times, but it's ultimately about finding meaning and purpose, even when things are tough.

It is.

It's about embracing our freedom and taking responsibility for creating a life that feels authentic and fulfilling.

Okay.

So where do we go from here?

What else does this chapter cover?

Well, we're going to continue exploring the individual in a social context, that tension between the need to adapt and the desire to transcend societal expectations.

We'll also delve into how existential therapy helps people move beyond conflict to a place of fulfillment and meaning.

And of course, we'll discuss the therapeutic relationship itself, how that connection between the therapist and client plays a central role in existential therapy.

That sounds fascinating.

I'm ready to keep diving deeper.

So for all of you listening, stick with us as we continue our exploration of existential therapy in part two of this deep dive.

Welcome back to our deep dive on existential therapy.

When we left off, we were about to explore how existential therapy views the individual, you know, within society.

It's like this fascinating tension between the need to adapt to society and the desire to live authentically to create our own meaning.

It's like we're constantly being pulled in two different directions.

Right.

On the one hand, we want to fit in to be accepted to follow the rules.

Right.

But on the other, we also want to be true to ourselves to express our individuality, to break free from those expectations.

It's a tough balance.

Exactly.

And the chapter really dives into this conflict, calling it the tension between adjustment and transcendence.

It asks this question.

How do we balance the need to adapt to society's rules and expectations with the desire to live authentically and create our own meaning?

It's a question I think we all grapple with, especially in a society that could be so focused on conformity and external validation.

Are we living for ourselves or for others?

It's true.

We're bombarded with messages about how we should be what we should buy and how we should live our lives.

And those messages can be incredibly persuasive, making us question our values and making us feel like we need to fit into a certain mold to be accepted and successful.

Like we have to check off all these boxes to be considered worthy.

Exactly.

But the chapter argues that true fulfillment doesn't come from conforming to those external pressures.

It comes from transcending them.

So it's about breaking free from those expectations and defining success on our own terms.

Exactly.

It's about recognizing that those societal expectations are often based on superficial values or outdated beliefs.

It's about having the courage to question those norms and create our own path, even if it means going against the grain.

It's about being a rebel with a cause, basically, but a cause that is true to yourself.

Right.

The chapter also points out that a life solely based on adjustment might work if society itself was built on honesty and authenticity.

But let's be real, that's not always the case, is it?

Not always, no.

The chapter highlights the hypocrisy that often exists in society.

How people might preach one set of values while actually living by another.

It's like saying one thing and doing another.

Exactly.

And they give some pretty stark examples,

like business managers who admit to breaking the law to get ahead, college students who cheat on exams,

and politicians who routinely mislead the public.

It's a bit disheartening.

It definitely pays a somewhat cynical picture, but it raises some important questions about the values that our society prioritizes.

But the point isn't to wallow in negativity or despair, right?

It's about recognizing that we have a choice.

Exactly.

We can choose to buy into those systems of dishonesty and inauthenticity, or we can choose to create something different.

Exactly.

It's that existential call to action, that reminder that we're responsible for shaping our own lives and the world around us.

I love that.

So how do we actually do that?

How do we transcend those societal pressures and become truly free individuals?

The chapter emphasizes consciousness and choice as the key tools.

It's about waking up to those limiting beliefs and expectations that we've internalized and then making conscious choices that align with our authentic selves.

It's about becoming aware of the ways we've been conditioned and then actively choosing to break free from those patterns.

Exactly.

It's about awareness and action.

But they also acknowledge that there are limits to our freedom, right?

We can't just wish away certain realities.

Of course not.

We can't control everything.

Right.

We can't just wish away the realities of our existence.

Our genetics, our upbringing,

the historical and cultural context we're born into, all of these factors shape who we are and the choices available to us.

It's like recognizing that we're dealt a certain hand of cards, but we still have the freedom to play those cards in a way that feels authentic to us.

That's a great analogy.

It's about finding that sweet spot between recognizing our limitations and embracing our freedom to create meaning within those constraints.

I like that.

So we've talked about the individual in society.

Now let's shift gears and talk about impulse control.

This is where existential therapy might seem a bit counterintuitive, right?

If we're all about embracing freedom and choice, wouldn't that lead to a kind of anything goes mentality?

It's a common misconception, but the existentialist perspective on impulse control is actually quite nuanced.

They argue that true freedom isn't about indulging every whim or desire.

It's more about making conscious and responsible choices.

So it's not about just giving into those urges, but about really understanding them, like what's driving them,

exploring their roots, and then choosing how we want to respond to them.

Exactly.

And the chapter points out that many people who struggle with impulse control are actually trying to avoid deeper emotional pain or existential anxieties.

That makes sense.

It's like using those impulsive behaviors to numb out or distract themselves from those uncomfortable feelings.

Right.

Like someone who overeats or drinks to excess, not because they can't control themselves, but because they're trying to escape boredom, anxiety, or depression.

It's like those behaviors are serving a purpose, even if it's an unhealthy one.

Exactly.

It's about recognizing that those behaviors are often serving a purpose, even if it's an unhealthy one.

And by exploring those underlying motivations, we can start to make different choices that are more aligned with our long -term well -being.

So it's about getting to the root of the problem, not just treating the symptoms.

Absolutely.

Okay.

So we've talked about the conflicts that can arise between the individual and society.

Now let's talk about fulfillment.

What does it actually mean to live a fulfilling life from an existentialist perspective?

Well, the chapter emphasizes that meaning in life isn't something we discover, it's something we create.

We are, as they put it, inveterate meaning makers.

I love that.

It's a powerful reminder that we're not just passive recipients of meaning, but active participants in creating it.

Exactly.

And that creative process involves choice, responsibility, and action.

It's about asking ourselves those big questions like, what do I stand for?

What gives my life meaning?

And then making choices that reflect those values.

So it's about aligning our actions with our beliefs and creating a life that feels purposeful.

Exactly.

They give the example of different historical figures who stood for different values like love, freedom, truth, creativity, faith, power, and equality.

It's a good reminder that there are many different paths to meaning and that each of us must find our own unique way.

Like there's no one size fits all answer to the meaning of life.

Right.

And they emphasize that the meaning of life isn't some grand abstract concept.

It's found in the everyday choices we make, the actions we take, and the way we choose to show up in the world.

It's about finding meaning in the ordinary, in the day to day.

Exactly.

And that brings us to the question of the ideal individual.

What does it mean to be a fully actualized person from an existentialist perspective?

Well, from what we've discussed so far, it sounds like authenticity is the ultimate goal.

Like living in accordance with our true nature, embracing all aspects of ourselves, even the messy or uncomfortable ones.

You got it.

It's about integrating those three levels of being, nature, others, and ourselves, and creating a life that feels whole and congruent.

It's about being honest with ourselves, taking responsibility for our choices, and having the courage to live in alignment with our values, even when it's tough.

Exactly.

And they emphasize that there's no one size fits all definition of authenticity.

It's a journey that's unique to each individual.

And how does therapy, that therapeutic relationship, actually support this journey toward authenticity?

We talked earlier about how the therapist's own authenticity is essential.

What else characterizes the therapeutic relationship in existential therapy?

It all comes back to that I -Thou relationship between therapist and client.

It's about creating a space of mutual respect, empathy, and genuine connection.

It's about seeing the client as a whole person, not just a collection of symptoms or problems.

Exactly.

And the chapter points out that the therapeutic relationship itself can be a source of healing and growth.

It can provide clients with a model of authentic relating and a safe space to explore their own struggles with authenticity.

So the relationship isn't just a means to an end.

It's an intro part of the therapeutic process.

Yes.

It's both a process of change and a source of content for therapy.

The therapist's authenticity can challenge the client's defenses and encourage them to be more open and honest in their own lives.

It's like they're modeling that authenticity, showing the client what it looks like to be truly present and engaged.

Exactly.

And the therapist isn't there to be an expert with all the answers.

They're more like a compassionate guide, walking alongside the client on their journey of self -discovery.

It's about empowering the client to find their own answers and make their own choices.

The therapist provides support, guidance, and feedback, but ultimately it's the client who's in the driver's seat.

That's a great way to put it.

Okay, so we've talked about the therapeutic relationship in general terms.

Now let's get into the practicalities of existential therapy.

What does a typical session look like?

How long does therapy last?

What are the qualifications of an existential therapist?

Well, the chapter's a bit vague on the specifics, which I guess is kind of in line with the existential emphasis on individuality and flexibility.

There's no rigid set of techniques or procedures.

So it's more about adapting the approach to the unique needs of each client.

Exactly.

But they do mention that sessions typically last about 50 minutes and are scheduled weekly, similar to psychodynamic therapy.

And during times of crisis, the therapist might be more flexible, offering additional support or even extending the length of sessions.

So it's about being responsive to the client's needs, not just sticking to a rigid schedule.

And what about the qualifications of an existential therapist?

Is there a specific degree or certification required?

The chapter suggests that existential therapists come from a variety of backgrounds, including medicine, psychology, education, and even theology.

But the key is that they have a deep understanding of the human condition and have done their own personal work to explore their own existential anxieties and values.

It's about walking the walk, not just talking the talk.

The therapist's own journey of self -discovery is essential for creating an authentic and transformative therapeutic relationship.

I couldn't agree more.

What about medication?

Does existential therapy typically involve the use of medication?

That's an interesting question.

The chapter suggests that traditional existentialists are generally less inclined to use medication as an adjunct to therapy.

You see, they believe that it's important for clients to fully experience their emotions, even the painful ones, rather than numbing them out with medication.

It's about seeing those emotions as valuable sources of information and growth, not as problems to be fixed or avoided.

Exactly.

But of course, the decision to use medication is always a personal one, and the therapist should respect the client's choices in that regard.

It's about empowering the client to make informed decisions about their own treatment.

Okay, so we've covered the basic practicalities.

Now I'm curious about the different schools of thought within existential therapy.

It seems like a pretty broad and diverse field.

It is.

The chapter highlights a couple of major alternatives to traditional existential analysis.

Okay, let's dive into those.

Where should we start?

Well, one major alternative is existential humanistic therapy, which, as you might guess, draws heavily from humanistic psychology.

Okay, so we're talking about those third force psychologists like Maslow and Rogers, who emphasized human potential,

self -actualization, and the importance of the therapeutic relationship.

Exactly.

Existential humanistic therapy blends those core humanistic principles with the existential focus on freedom, responsibility, and authenticity.

It's like integrating the best of both worlds.

Right.

So how does it differ from traditional existential analysis and practice?

Well, the chapter mentions a study that compared the clinical practices of existential humanistic and existential analytic therapists.

Interesting.

What did they find?

They found that the existential analysts were more likely to use traditional psychoanalytic techniques like analyzing the transference and offering interpretations.

So they're a bit closer to that psychodynamic approach, even though they're coming from an existential perspective.

Yes, while the existential humanistic therapists were more likely to incorporate physical contact, like touching or embracing, and to express more warmth and positive regard, similar to Rogerian therapy.

It sounds like a more experiential and emotionally focused approach,

while still maintaining that existential core.

Exactly.

And the chapter highlights a couple of key figures in the existential humanistic tradition, like James Burgenthal and Kirk Schneider.

I'm curious about Kirk Schneider.

They mentioned that he's developed a system called existential integrative therapy.

What can you tell me about that?

Well, as the name suggests, it's all about integrating existential principles with other therapeutic modalities.

It's a flexible and adaptable approach that draws from a variety of sources, depending on the needs of the client.

So it's about bringing existentialism into conversation with other approaches and creating a more holistic and personalized form of therapy.

Exactly.

And Schneider emphasizes that it's not just about picking and choosing techniques.

It's about creating a cohesive framework that's rooted in both existential and humanistic values.

That sounds really interesting.

Okay, so what's the next major alternative to traditional existential analysis?

The chapter delves into logo therapy, which was developed by Viktor Frankl.

Frankl's story is incredibly powerful.

He was a Holocaust survivor who endured years of unimaginable suffering in Nazi concentration camps.

It's hard to even fathom what he must have gone through.

And yet, he found meaning in the midst of that horrific experience.

It's truly inspiring.

It is.

And his experiences in the camps led him to develop logo therapy, which focuses on finding meaning in life, even amidst suffering.

So it's about that search for purpose and meaning.

That why.

That gives us the strength to endure even the most difficult challenges.

Exactly.

Frankl believed that the will to meaning is our most fundamental drive, and that when we lose sight of meaning, we become vulnerable to despair and emptiness.

The chapter mentions Frankl's famous quote, he who has a why to live can bear with almost anyhow.

It's such a powerful statement about the resilience that comes from finding purpose.

It is.

And logo therapy is all about helping people discover their own unique why, their own sources of meaning and purpose.

Okay, so how does logo therapy approach therapy?

What are the techniques or methods used?

Well, they emphasize the importance of confronting existential anxieties and taking responsibility for our choices.

They use techniques like paradoxical intention, where clients are encouraged to do the very thing they fear and do reflection, where clients are encouraged to focus on positive aspects of their lives rather than dwelling on their problems.

So it's about using those existential anxieties as catalysts for growth and change rather than trying to avoid or suppress them.

Exactly.

And Frankl believed that humor and self -detachment could also be powerful tools for coping with those anxieties.

It's about finding that balance between taking life seriously and not taking ourselves too seriously.

Precisely.

Okay, so we've explored existential humanistic therapy and logo therapy.

What other alternatives are out there?

The chapter also discusses reality therapy, which might seem like a bit of an outlier in a chapter on existential therapy.

I was thinking the same thing.

Reality therapy seems more focused on practical solutions and taking responsibility for our behavior.

How does it fit into the existentialist framework?

It's actually more aligned with existentialism than you might think.

William Glasser, who developed reality therapy, was influenced by existential philosophy.

And reality therapy shares some key themes with existentialism, like the emphasis on choice, responsibility, and the importance of creating a meaningful life.

So it's about recognizing that we have agency, even in the face of challenging circumstances, and that we can choose to create a better reality for ourselves.

Reality therapy focuses on helping clients identify their needs, make choices that are aligned with those needs, and take responsibility for the consequences of those choices.

They talk about those four basic psychological needs, belonging, power, enjoyment, and freedom.

And they argue that when those needs aren't met, we experience a sense of frustration and dissatisfaction, which can lead to unhealthy behaviors.

It's about understanding what drives our behavior and then making conscious choices that lead to greater fulfillment and well -being.

So we're not just victims of our circumstances.

We have the power to choose differently.

Okay, so we've covered three major alternatives to traditional existential analysis.

Existential humanistic therapy, logo therapy, and reality therapy.

They all seem to share that core existential focus on freedom,

responsibility,

and the search for meaning, while also bringing their own unique perspectives and techniques to the table.

It's quite fascinating.

Exactly.

It's a testament to the richness and diversity of the existential approach.

And it's also a reminder that there's no one right way to do existential therapy.

It's about finding the approach that resonates with you and that meets the needs of your clients.

So it's about being flexible and adaptable and finding what works best for each individual.

This deep dive has been incredible so far.

I'm feeling a lot more informed and honestly a bit inspired to examine my own life choices and values through this existential lens.

That's fantastic.

And you know, we've only scratched the surface of this complex and fascinating field.

There's so much more to explore.

I'm ready to keep digging deeper.

So for all of you listening, join us for part three of this deep dive as we examine the effectiveness and criticisms of existential therapy and delve into a real life case study.

You won't want to miss it.

All right, welcome back to the deep dive we are wrapping up our exploration of existential therapy.

And I have to say this has been one of the most, I don't know, thought -provoking deep dives we've done.

I agree.

It's definitely a rich and complex approach to therapy and to life itself really.

It really is.

So far we've covered a lot.

The historical roots of existential therapy, those core concepts, you know, being in the world and authenticity, the four sources of existential anxiety and how lying can become a defense against those anxieties.

We also explored the therapeutic process, focusing on consciousness raising and choosing and even delved into those different schools of thought within existential therapy.

We've covered a lot of ground.

We have.

And now it's time to get into some of the tougher questions surrounding existential therapy, like its effectiveness, the criticisms of faces and how it actually plays out in real life.

That's a great point.

And the chapter actually starts this section by acknowledging that there's been very little research on the effectiveness of existential therapy.

Oh, really?

Yeah, which I guess makes sense.

It's not really a therapy focused on symptom reduction or those measurable outcomes that we often see in other approaches.

So it's not about just checking off boxes and seeing if symptoms have decreased.

Right.

It challenges that whole idea of how we typically evaluate therapies,

especially within that dominant medical model that wants to quantify and measure everything.

Okay.

So it's pushing back against reducing human experiences to data points.

Yeah, which I can appreciate, you know, but I imagine that opens it up to criticism from other perspectives, like cognitive behavioral therapy, psychoanalysis, and even humanistic psychology.

Sure.

All those approaches have their own ways of measuring success.

Exactly.

And existential therapy kind of throws out that whole playbook.

I see.

So what are some of the specific criticisms leveled at existential therapy?

Well, one of the main criticisms is that focus on individual responsibility.

Some argue that it ignores those, you know, systemic factors that contribute to people suffering, things like poverty, discrimination, and oppression.

That's a valid point.

I mean, we don't exist in a vacuum.

Our choices are always shaped and constrained by those social, economic, and political forces around us.

Exactly.

And an overemphasis on individual responsibility can lead to blaming people for circumstances that are largely outside of their control, like saying someone is core because they're not working hard enough, when in reality they might be facing systemic barriers that make it incredibly difficult to get ahead.

Yeah, I see what you mean.

It's about recognizing that personal responsibility exists within a larger context.

Right.

Another criticism is that existential therapy, it lacks those concrete techniques or structured methods that are common in other therapies, which can make it feel a bit vague and unstructured, especially for clients who are looking for clear guidance and actionable steps.

So it's less about following a set protocol and more about creating a unique approach for each individual,

which I guess could be both a strength and a weakness, depending on the client's needs and preferences.

Exactly.

Some people might find that lack of structure to be liberating and empowering, while others might find it frustrating and confusing.

It really just depends on the individual.

Makes sense.

And another criticism the chapter highlights is that existential therapies focus on those abstract concepts, death, meaninglessness, freedom, can be overwhelming or even harmful for certain populations.

That's a good point.

Like, if someone is already really struggling.

Right.

For someone struggling with severe mental illness or facing an acute crisis, diving into those existential depths might not be the most appropriate or helpful approach.

It could even be re -traumatizing or disorienting.

Yeah, it makes you wonder if it's like, too much too soon, you know.

Right.

It's like, there's a time and a place for exploring those big questions, and it's the therapist's responsibility to carefully assess each client's needs and tailor their approach accordingly.

I agree.

Okay, so we've talked about the criticisms.

Now, I'm really curious to see how existential therapy actually plays out in real life.

The chapter presents a case study of a woman named Mrs.

C.

Who is she, and what is she struggling with?

So, Mrs.

C is a woman who's struggling with a severe washing compulsion.

She's constantly scrubbing, cleaning, and disinfecting everything in sight.

Oh, wow.

I can only imagine how exhausting and all -consuming that must be.

What led to this compulsion?

Well, it all started after a particularly stressful period in her life.

She had five young children, another one on the way, and everyone in the family got sick.

A nasty case of the Asian flu.

And then, to make matters worse, her daughter got pinworms.

Oh, my gosh.

That sounds like a nightmare.

So, it seems like a pretty understandable reaction to that level of stress and anxiety.

Right, but the chapter uses Mrs.

C's case to illustrate how those everyday anxieties can get tangled up with deeper existential fears.

Okay, interesting.

So, how did existential therapy approach her case?

Well, they start by exploring how Mrs.

C might be using her washing compulsion as a way to cope with those existential anxieties, like the fear of contamination, the fear of losing control, and the guilt of not being able to protect her children from harm.

It's like her washing rituals become a way to create order and control in a world that suddenly feels chaotic and threatening.

Exactly.

And the chapter points out how this compulsion might also be a way of dealing with those deeper existential questions about purity,

responsibility, and meaning.

It's like she's trying to wash away not just the physical dirt, but also the existential dirt, the guilt and anxiety that come with being human.

That's a powerful image.

It is.

So, how does the therapist actually work with Mrs.

C?

The therapist would explore those underlying anxieties and motivations with her to help her understand the deeper meaning behind her compulsion.

It's not just about stopping the washing behavior.

It's about addressing the root of the problem, those existential fears that are driving her actions.

So, it's about helping her find a different way to relate to those fears.

Yeah.

To find healthier coping mechanisms and to create a life that feels more, I don't know, meaningful and fulfilling.

Exactly.

Seems like a lot of this comes back to that idea of choice.

Yeah.

That we always have choices even when we feel trapped.

Right.

The therapist might help Mrs.

C see those choices more clearly, helping her realize that she has agency even within the confines of her compulsion.

That's so empowering.

It's about helping her reclaim her freedom and start making choices that are more aligned with her values.

Exactly.

Okay.

So, we've explored the criticisms of existential therapy and we delved into a real -life case study.

What about the future of existential therapy?

Where do we go from here?

That's the million -dollar question, isn't it?

The chapter acknowledges that existential therapy isn't for everyone, and that it's faced its share of criticisms as we've discussed.

Of course.

But it also seems like it has a lot to offer, especially in a world where people are increasingly struggling with those feelings of emptiness,

meaninglessness, and isolation.

That's a key point.

Existential therapy provides a framework for addressing those deeper questions that often get overlooked in more traditional approaches.

It's about recognizing the human condition in all its complexity and finding ways to create meaning and purpose, even in the face of suffering.

It's about that search for authenticity, that journey of self -discovery that I think resonates with so many people today.

Absolutely.

And the chapter suggests that we're likely to see a growing influence of existentialism in the field of therapy, even if it's not always explicitly labeled as such.

There's a lot of potential for integrating existential principles and techniques into other approaches, leading to a more holistic and human -centered approach to therapy.

It's about meeting people where they are and helping them find their own unique path to healing and growth.

I like that.

I love how the chapter ends by talking about that unheard cry for meaning in our society.

It's like beneath all the distractions and busyness, there's this deep longing for connection, purpose, and authenticity.

And existential therapy offers a way to tap into that longing and start creating a life that feels truly meaningful.

It's a powerful message, and one that I think resonates deeply with a lot of people today.

It certainly resonates with me.

This entire deep dive has been incredible.

I've learned so much.

And honestly, it's really challenged me to think about my own life and choices through a new lens.

That's fantastic to hear.

And for everyone listening, we hope this deep dive has sparked your own curiosity about existential therapy and the power of embracing authenticity in your own life.

What do you stand for?

What gives your life meaning?

These are the questions that existential therapy invites us to explore, and we encourage you to continue that exploration on your own.

Thanks for joining us on the deep dives.