The
existential approach is first and foremost philosophical. It
is concerned with the understanding of people's position in the world and with
the clarification of what it means to be alive. The existential therapeutic
approach emphasizes "free will," the ability to make choices that are
not dictated by heredity or past conditioning, through which an individual can
become the person that he or she wants to be. ("Existential therapy, existential," 2005)
Key Figures
James
Bugental - contributed some significant writing and theory development to
existential thought, more important is the video tapes on which Bugental is
featured
Viktor
Frankl - alone makes his an incredible contribution to
existential theory. Frankl was trained as an analyst prior to World War II in
Germany. As Hitler rose in power and WWII neared, Frankl was placed in a
concentration camp for the duration of the war. It is from these experiences
that Frankl wrote his most significant contribution, Man's Search for Meaning.
Irvin Yalom
- wrote Existential
Psychotherapy. It is said that this book
provides the best organizational structure to existential thought that exists
which makes the book significant.
Kirk
Schneider - was a student and colleague
of Rollo May. Wrote many important
journal articles and books including collaboration with May on The Psychology of Existence: An integrative, clinical perspective. ("Existential therapy, existential," 2005)
Rollo May 
Viktor Frankl
Irvin Yalom
KEY CONCEPTS:
Key
Concepts
There
are six key concepts behind the Existential theory:
Proposition 1: The
Capacity for Self-Awareness
It
is their choice to expand awareness; Clients choose to live freely and fully.
They can also choose, however, to restrict themselves.
Proposition 2: Freedom
and Responsibility
People
are free beings and must accept that responsibility of their actions.
People
are responsible for choosing their own destinies because they chose freely from
alternatives.
Proposition 3: Striving
for Identity and Relationship to Others
Clients
have a concern to preserve their uniqueness and identity. They learn of
themselves through their interaction with others
Proposition 4: The
Search for Meaning
The
significance of a person’s existence is never set, rather it changes though
their projects and goals. The meaning in life can be found by engaging in
activities that might include commitment to creating, loving, working and
building.
Proposition 5: Anxiety
as a Condition of Living
Anxiety
is a part of the human condition and a potential growth source. Neurotic
anxiety tends to immobilize people. Normal anxiety is felt when an
event is being faced. Normal anxiety comes from when people feel freedom and
the consequences of accepting or rejecting the choices.
Proposition 6: Awareness
of Death and Nonbeing
Death
is eminent. Death is a part of living and awareness of death gives life
significance. Death is not negative, but it is a motivating factor for the
living. If people commit themselves to a full life, then they can be at peace
nearing its end. (Park)
What are the goals of Existential Therapy?
- Living in the present.
- Increasing self-awareness and authentic living.
- Finding personal meaning.
- Coping with anxiety.
- Taking responsibility for decisions. (Garrett, 2007)
EXISTENTIAL PSYCHOTHERAPY
A form of dynamic psychotherapy.
Holds a different view of inner conflict.
Conflict is between the individual and the "givens" of existence termed ultimate concerns.
1. Death.
Holds a different view of inner conflict.
Conflict is between the individual and the "givens" of existence termed ultimate concerns.
1. Death.
2. Freedom.
3. Isolation.
4. Meaninglessness. (Garrett, 2007)
MAJOR CRITISCMS
References
Existential therapy, existential humanistic therapy . (2005). Retrieved from http://www.depression-
guide.com/existential-therapy.htm
Garrett, J. (2007, October 18). Existential therapy. Retrieved from
Park, S. J. (n.d.). Existential theory . Retrieved from http://people.unt.edu/~sjp0013/existential.htm
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