What is Existential Psychotherapy? The Pros and Cons
We’ve all heard of an existential crisis – those moments in life when you question who you are and what you’re doing. Some days, it can be hard to recognize how life has meaning.
Fortunately, finding meaning in life is at the core of Existential Therapy.
But what, exactly, does Existential Therapy entail? And could it be a good fit for you?
Here at KMA, we are passionate about helping you find your purpose. For over 14 years, we’ve been matching clients with the ideal therapist for them and supporting them with customized therapy plans.
We’re here to help you learn about various forms of therapy – and how to know which one might be best for you.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of what Existential Therapy involves, the pros and cons, and what alternatives exist.
What is Existential Therapy?
Existential Therapy explores your values and sense of self and challenges you to investigate how to live a more meaningful life.
It can help you to navigate anxiety related to death and dying and support you in experiencing more joy and fulfillment.
What Happens During Existential Therapy?
Existential Therapy is a relationship-driven form of therapy that emphasizes how you connect with your therapist. It fosters self-awareness, responsibility, and awareness of how the choices you make impact your life.
Existential Therapy can help you with issues including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Death Anxiety
- Feeling “stuck” or “hopeless”
- Navigating difficult life transitions
Pros of Existential Therapy
Existential Therapy can support you with a wide range of issues and lets you be in control of your therapy process. While your therapist will be there to support you every step of the way, your successes are the result of the work that you put in.
Some of the benefits of Existential Therapy include:
- Establishing strategies to identify and overcome your fears
- Feeling a greater sense of personal responsibility and self-determination
- Developing a greater sense of self, and understanding your role in your recovery
Cons of Existential Therapy
While there are many benefits to Existential Therapy, you may not feel like it’s the best option for you. While the freedom of Existential Therapy can allow for great progress in personal responsibility and sense of self, it also provides less structure than other forms of therapy.
It may take longer for you to identify and understand your issues than in other forms of therapy. It’s also less action-based and goal-oriented than other forms of therapy.
Existential Therapy may not be the right choice for you if:
- You prefer a firm, clear, and structured therapy plan
- You do better with measurable results and tangible outcomes
- You’re experiencing specific issues that you would like to resolve quickly
Alternatives to Existential Therapy
After exploring the pros and cons of Existential Therapy, you may be interested in learning about what other options are available.
Some alternatives to Existential Therapy include:
These therapy options provide a more structured experience and allow you to set and achieve measurable goals.
Next Steps For Existential Therapy
After reading this article, you now have a better understanding of what Existential Therapy entails, some indicators it may work well for you, and some choices that might be better suited for you.
Here at KMA, we are passionate about ensuring you experience the best therapy plan for your unique challenges. This includes matching you with the best therapist for your goals and creating a customized treatment plan based on your needs.
Our introductory appointment will help you establish whether Existential Therapy or another form of therapy might be the best option for you.
Register online to book an introductory appointment, or contact us directly for more information!
Seeking out therapy to manage anxiety? Take our free Anxiety 101 Quiz to get the customized resources you need.
If you’re not yet ready to connect with our team, read these resources for more information:
- To get ready for your first therapy session, read: 3 Helpful Tips to Prepare for Your First Therapy Session
- If you’re interested in Online Therapy, read: Is Online Psychotherapy Effective?
- If you’re looking for a therapist in Toronto: How to Find a Therapist in Toronto
Download our free Therapy 101 Guide for a comprehensive guide through the therapy process.
About the Author
Emily Weatherhead has a Masters in Community Psychology from Wilfrid Laurier University, where her research focused on improving post-secondary student mental health. She is passionate about finding new ways to make mental health research more accessible and break down the barriers that prevent people from receiving mental health care.
