How to find meaning and purpose in your life with existential therapy
Do you ever wonder what is the point of your existence? Do you feel lost, confused, or hopeless about your future? Do you struggle to find joy and satisfaction in your daily activities?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone. Many people experience existential crises at some point in their lives, especially during times of stress, change, or uncertainty. Existential crises are periods of intense doubt and questioning about the meaning and purpose of one’s life.
Existential therapy is a form of psychotherapy that can help you cope with existential crises and find your own answers to the big questions of life. Existential therapy is based on the philosophy of existentialism, which emphasizes human freedom, responsibility, and choice. Existential therapy does not provide ready-made solutions or impose any values or beliefs on you. Rather, it helps you explore your own values and beliefs, confront your fears and anxieties, and create your own meaning and purpose in life.
How does existential therapy work?
Existential therapy is a collaborative and dialogical process between you and your therapist. Your therapist will not judge you, tell you what to do, or give you advice. Instead, your therapist will listen to you, empathize with you, and challenge you to examine your assumptions and perspectives. Your therapist will also help you identify and address the four main existential themes that underlie most human concerns:
Death: The awareness of your own mortality and the uncertainty of your future.
Freedom: The ability to make choices and act on them, as well as the responsibility and consequences that come with them.
Isolation: The sense of being alone and separate from others, as well as the desire for connection and belonging.
Meaninglessness: The lack of a clear and coherent direction or purpose in life, as well as the search for significance and value.
By exploring these themes, you will be able to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your situation, and your possibilities. You will also be able to develop your own authentic way of living, based on your own values and goals. You will be able to face your fears and anxieties with courage and resilience, and embrace your freedom and responsibility with confidence and creativity. You will be able to find meaning and purpose in your life, not by following external standards or expectations, but by creating your own unique and personal meaning and purpose.
What are the benefits of existential therapy?
Existential therapy can help you with a variety of issues, such as:
Depression
Anxiety
Stress
Low self-esteem
Relationship problems
Career dissatisfaction
Life transitions
Grief and loss
Trauma
Spiritual or existential crises
Some of the benefits of existential therapy are:
Increased self-awareness and self-acceptance
Enhanced sense of freedom and autonomy
Improved decision-making and problem-solving skills
Greater clarity and direction in life
Increased motivation and engagement in life
Enhanced creativity and expression
Improved relationships and communication
Reduced distress and suffering
Increased happiness and well-being
How to get started with existential therapy?
If you are interested in existential therapy, you can start by finding a qualified and experienced existential therapist. You can search for existential therapists in your area using online directories such as [Psychology Today] or [GoodTherapy]. You can also ask for referrals from your primary care provider, friends, family, or other trusted sources.
Before you choose a therapist, you may want to contact them and ask them some questions, such as:
What is your educational background and training in existential therapy?
How do you practice existential therapy and what is your approach?
How much do you charge and what are your payment options?
How long are your sessions and how often do you meet with clients?
What are your availability and cancellation policies?
How do you handle confidentiality and privacy issues?
You may also want to schedule an initial consultation with the therapist to see if you feel comfortable and compatible with them. During the consultation, you can share your reasons for seeking therapy, your goals and expectations, and any concerns or questions you may have. You can also get a sense of the therapist’s personality, style, and rapport.
If you decide to work with the therapist, you can expect to meet with them regularly, usually once a week or every other week, for 50 to 60 minutes per session. The duration and frequency of therapy will depend on your needs, preferences, and progress. You can also expect to have homework assignments, such as reading, writing, or practicing certain skills or exercises, to enhance your learning and growth.
Existential therapy is not a quick fix or a magic bullet. It is a challenging and rewarding journey that requires your active participation, honesty, and openness. It is also a journey that can transform your life and help you find meaning and purpose in your existence.
If you are ready to embark on this journey, contact us today and schedule an appointment with one of our existential therapists. We are here to support you and help you live authentically and meaningfully.
