Qu-Rated
Are you living or killing time
?
History of Existential Therapy
What gives your life meaning and purpose?
Existential therapy is a philosophical approach to psychotherapy that has its roots in the early 20th century. Based on the idea that human beings are inherently free and responsible for creating meaning in their lives, and that facing and overcoming the challenges of existence is an essential part of the human experience. The early pioneers of existential therapy were philosophers and psychologists such as Martin Heidegger, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Friedrich Nietzsche, who explored the human condition and our relationship to the world. In the 1940s and 1950s, the psychoanalyst Victor Frankl developed the concept of "logotherapy," which focused on the search for meaning as the central drive in human life​.
Timeline of the history of existential therapy and logotherapy
Existential therapy and logotherapy are two closely related approaches to psychotherapy that emerged in the mid-20th century. Here is a brief timeline of the history of these two approaches
1940s
1950s
1959
1960s
1980s
1990s
Now
Existentialism emerges as a philosophical movement in Europe, emphasizing the subjective experience of human existence and the search for meaning in life.
Existential therapy emerges as a distinct approach to psychotherapy, drawing on the ideas of existential philosophy. Key figures in the development of this approach include Rollo May and Viktor Frankl.
Viktor Frankl publishes "Man's Search for Meaning," which describes his experiences as a Holocaust survivor and lays out the principles of his approach to therapy, which he called logotherapy.
Existential therapy becomes more widely recognized as a legitimate form of psychotherapy, with a growing number of therapists adopting its principles and techniques.
Existential therapy begins to incorporate more elements of humanistic psychology, including an emphasis on empathy, unconditional positive regard, and personal growth.
Existential therapy begins to incorporate more elements of humanistic psychology, including an emphasis on empathy, unconditional positive regard, and personal growth.
Existential therapy and logotherapy are both well-established approaches to psychotherapy, with many practitioners around the world using their principles and techniques to help individuals find meaning and purpose in their lives.
What Are The Key Concepts Of Existential Therapy?
The underlying principle of existential therapy is that being human means to experience a certain level of anxiety, and that accepting this fact is an important step toward living up to your potential. Existential therapists believe that this intrinsic anxiety stems from a few basic ‘givens’ about what it means to be human
Four facts we all have to confront in life
Existential therapy allows us to come to terms with these givens and the anxiety that stems from them.
'Be yourself; everyone else is already taken' -Oscar Wilde
F.A.Qu
What is existential therapy?
Existential therapy is a philosophical approach to therapy that focuses on helping individuals find meaning and purpose in life. It encourages individuals to explore the deeper questions of life and to embrace their freedom to create their own meaning.
How is existential therapy different from other forms of therapy?
Existential therapy differs from other forms of therapy in that it doesn't just focus on treating symptoms, but rather on helping individuals understand their place in the world and find meaning and purpose in life.
Who is existential therapy for?
Existential therapy is for anyone who is feeling lost, disconnected, or without purpose in life. It can be especially helpful for those dealing with depression, anxiety, midlife crisis, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, or spiritual or religious concerns.
What should I expect in an existential therapy session?
In an existential therapy session, you will explore the deeper questions of life with your therapist. This may include discussions about freedom, responsibility, authenticity, and the meaning of life. You will be encouraged to reflect on your own experiences and to find your own answers to these questions.
How long does existential therapy take?
The length of therapy will vary depending on the individual and their specific needs. Some people may only need a few sessions, while others may need ongoing therapy for an extended period of time. Your therapist will be able to provide a better estimate after your first few sessions.
Is existential therapy covered by insurance?
Existential therapy may be covered by insurance, but this can vary depending on your individual plan. It's best to check with your insurance provider to see what is covered.
Can existential therapy be done online?
Yes, existential therapy can be done online through virtual therapy sessions. This can be a convenient option for individuals who are unable to attend in-person therapy sessions.
Is existential therapy effective?
Existential therapy has been shown to be an effective approach for many individuals, helping them find greater meaning and purpose in life. However, it may not be the right fit for everyone, so it's important to discuss your specific needs with a therapist to determine if it's the right approach for you.
What can existential therapy and logotherapy help with?
Existential therapy and coaching can help individuals overcome feelings of emptiness and meaninglessness by assisting them in discovering their own values, beliefs, and purpose in life. Through introspection and self-reflection, individuals can gain a greater understanding of what truly motivates and inspires them. This can lead to increased fulfillment and a sense of meaning in life.
Finding purpose can bring a range of benefits, including increased satisfaction and happiness, a greater sense of direction and clarity, and improved mental health. By embracing the existential approach to life, individuals can find meaning in the present moment, rather than always looking towards the future.
There are many historical figures who can serve as existential role models. Some of the most prominent include philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, psychologist and Holocaust survivor Viktor Frankl, and writer and philosopher Albert Camus. These individuals emphasized the importance of individual freedom, choice, and responsibility, and encouraged others to live life to the fullest and find meaning in their own unique experiences.
​
​
Existential therapy and logotherapy can help individuals with a wide range of issues, including:
Depression: By helping individuals to understand the meaning and purpose of their lives, existential therapy and logotherapy can be an effective way to treat depression. It can help individuals to develop a more positive outlook on life and to find fulfillment in their experiences.
Anxiety: Existential therapy and logotherapy can help individuals to understand the sources of their anxiety and to develop strategies for managing their symptoms. By focusing on the present moment and encouraging personal responsibility, these therapies can help individuals to overcome feelings of helplessness and to regain a sense of control over their lives.
Relationships: Existential therapy and logotherapy can help individuals to improve their relationships by encouraging them to understand and accept their own experiences and the experiences of others. It can also help individuals to develop more meaningful and fulfilling relationships with others.
Identity and meaning: Existential therapy and logotherapy are particularly helpful for individuals who are searching for a deeper sense of meaning and purpose in their lives. By exploring their beliefs, values, and experiences, individuals can gain a greater understanding of who they are and what they stand for.
Grief and loss: Existential therapy and logotherapy can be helpful for individuals who are grieving the loss of a loved one or experiencing other forms of loss. By helping individuals to understand the larger context of their experiences and to find meaning in their lives, these therapies can help individuals to heal and move forward.
​
Existential crisis: Many people experience feelings of confusion, emptiness, or a sense of purposelessness at some point in their lives. Existential therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to explore these feelings and to find meaning and direction.
Overall, existential therapy and logotherapy are effective forms of therapy for individuals who are seeking greater self-awareness, a deeper sense of meaning and purpose, and improved relationships with others. By exploring the fundamental questions of existence, these therapies can help individuals to gain a greater understanding of themselves and their place in the world.