Exploring the Depths of Existential Therapy: A Relational Approach

Existential therapy, rooted in the philosophical traditions of the 19th and 20th centuries, offers a profound approach to addressing life's fundamental questions and challenges. As Yalom (1980, p. 5) states, "Existential psychotherapy is a dynamic approach to therapy which focuses on concerns that are rooted in the individual's existence." This therapeutic modality, when integrated with a relational approach, can provide a powerful framework for addressing life transitions, loss, and the search for meaning in life.

My own personal experiences with major career changes, caring for an elderly relative, and navigating bereavement have deeply informed my practice and ability to empathise with clients' struggles. These life events have given me a firsthand understanding of the existential challenges we all face, allowing me to connect more authentically with my clients' experiences.

The existential approach emphasises the importance of human givens - the essential needs and resources inherent in all individuals. Van Deurzen (2012, p. 3) explains, "Existential therapy aims to clarify, reflect upon and understand life, rather than to cure people of their ills." This focus on understanding rather than curing aligns well with a person-centred, relational approach to therapy.

When addressing key life issues such as transitions, loss, and the search for meaning, existential therapy offers unique insights. As Rollo May (1983, p. 20) notes, "The existential approach is not a set of techniques but a way of understanding human beings, a sensitivity to their conflicts and dilemmas." This understanding can be particularly valuable when clients are grappling with significant life changes or existential crises.

The benefits of existential therapy include deepened self-awareness, enhanced coping skills, increased authenticity, and a greater sense of meaning. Clarkson (2003, p. 15) emphasises the importance of the therapeutic relationship in this process, stating, "The relationship is the therapy." This aligns perfectly with a relational approach to therapy, where the therapeutic relationship itself is seen as a key element of healing.

Integrating existential therapy with a relational approach allows for a richer, more holistic therapeutic experience. As Yalom (2002, p. 17) suggests, "It is the relationship that heals, the bond between therapist and patient, the faith that patients have that their therapists are truly committed to helping them." This integration can involve collaborative exploration of existential questions within the safety of the therapeutic relationship, empathic presence, and tailored interventions that address the client's unique needs and existential concerns.

While existential therapy might not always be my primary focus, its principles can significantly enhance the therapy when integrated with a relational, person-centred approach. As Van Deurzen (2012, p. 194) puts it, "Existential therapy is about helping people to live their lives more fully and more authentically." By combining existential insights with a relational approach, therapists can help clients navigate life's complexities with greater clarity, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose.

If this approach resonates with you and you'd like to explore how therapy might support you in your journey, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

References:

Clarkson, P. (2003) The Therapeutic Relationship. 2nd edn. London: Whurr Publishers.

May, R. (1983) The Discovery of Being: Writings in Existential Psychology. New York: W.W. Norton & Company.

Van Deurzen, E. (2012) Existential Counselling & Psychotherapy in Practice. 3rd edn. London: SAGE Publications.

Yalom, I.D. (1980) Existential Psychotherapy. New York: Basic Books.

Yalom, I.D. (2002) The Gift of Therapy: An Open Letter to a New Generation of Therapists and Their Patients. New York: HarperCollins