Existential Therapy In Person and Online
Transform Your Story with: Existential
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What is Existential Therapy?
Existential therapy was developed by a group of philosophers and psychologists in the early 20th century who argued that more traditional forms of psychotherapy, such as psychoanalysis, were too focused on the past and didn’t address the essential issues of human existence. Based on the principles of psychodynamic therapy as well as humanistic and existential psychology, this treatment modality is a non-directive approach where individuals explore thoughts, feelings, and experiences to discover purpose and meaning. Although treatment is focused on present challenges, our lived experiences can give us insight into our unique perspectives and identities and how they influence our everyday decisions.
This form of psychotherapy focuses on the individual's search for meaning and purpose in life. It is based on the belief that all humans will face fundamental challenges that are simply part of the natural human condition (i.e., death, isolation, meaninglessness), as opposed to viewing these conditions as an emotional problem that we have to get rid of. With that said, the feelings that derive from these conditions can be overwhelming and affect our ability to function and engage with the world and those around us. Existential therapists guide individuals through a process of self-exploration and self-understanding as it relates to four existential concerns we will all face in life. It is through this therapeutic process that individuals find solutions to manage current stress and improve their well-being.
According to existential therapy, it is natural to ponder about life’s purpose and wonder why we exist. These unanswered questions can bring about additional questions and struggles regarding how one should live. Rather than approaching these questions with absolute answers, existential therapy processes encourage individuals to explore our experiences as it pertains to the 4 essential issues (or ultimate concerns) that typically prevent people from living their most fulfilled life.
What Can Existential Therapy Help With?
Existential therapy is focused on helping us overcome these essential issues with greater clarity, directions, goals, and tools.
1. Death
Death is a universal human experience. It is something that we will all face. Finding a healthy balance between being aware of death without becoming overwhelmed allows us to create space for making active choices on how we want to live. Just visualize yourself laying on your deathbed. What thoughts would you have about how you lived your life thus far? Would you have done things differently or do you have any regrets? This visualization may have naturally created some unsettling thoughts and angst. If we allow our fears to get too great, it can prevent us from doing things that are important to us; But, if there’s just enough, it can motivate us to face the fragility of life with courage. The very awareness of death can be an empowering wake-up call that can actually enrich our existence.
2. Meaning and purpose
As humans, we want to know why we’re here and what our lives mean. Experiencing distressing events can oftentimes ramp-up our yearning for answers. In fact, life can sometimes seem meaningless. Existentialism offers us a relieving and stimulating way of thinking— it is the idea that we simply exist as humans and do not have any inherent meaning of life; rather, meaning is something we create. If meaning depends on our efforts, we can choose to live our lives freely doing what truly matters to maximize our existence and reason for being.
3. Isolation
Existential isolation is the realization that humans are fundamentally alone. We are all born alone and we will all die alone. Yet, when we forge connections with ourselves (being confident in who we are and what we want) and others (being understood and deeply connected in relationship) we can create meaning in our lives. Existential therapy helps us explore what we want versus need in relationships so that we can create our unique existence integrating connectedness, love and transcendence.
4. Freedom and responsibility
Humans are essentially free and responsible beings. This means that we are free to make our own choices and to live our lives in the way that we choose. However, with freedom comes responsibility. We are responsible for the choices that we make and for the consequences of those choices. Essentially, we are responsible for our own existence. It is the conscious and active process we engage in that ultimately promotes life-enhancing experiences.
5. Additional Problems Treated
Existential therapy has been used to treat a variety of mental health problems and conditions, including anxiety, depression, stress, vulnerability, and burn-out. It has also been used to help people who are struggling with existential issues, such as death, isolation, and meaninglessness.
How Can Existential Therapy Help High Achieving Individuals?
Existential therapy can help high achievers in a number of ways. It can help them to:
Find meaning and purpose in their work
High achievers are often driven by a need to succeed. However, this need can sometimes lead to feelings of emptiness and meaninglessness. Existential therapy can help high achievers to find meaning and purpose in their work, beyond simply achieving success.
Deal with stress and burnout
High achievers are often under a lot of stress. This stress can lead to burnout, which is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Existential therapy can help high achievers to deal with stress and burnout, so that they can continue to achieve their goals without sacrificing their health and well-being.
Improve their relationships
High achievers may have difficulty setting boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships. Existential therapy can help high achievers to improve their relationships, by teaching them how to communicate effectively, set boundaries, and ask for help when they need it.
Increase their self-awareness
High achievers may not be very aware of their own thoughts, feelings, and needs. Existential therapy can help high achievers to increase their self-awareness, so that they can make better decisions and live more fulfilling lives.
Live more authentically
High achievers may sometimes feel like they are living a life that is not their own. They may feel like they are constantly striving to please others, instead of following their own dreams. Existential therapy can help high achievers to live more authentically, by teaching them how to listen to their own inner voice and to make choices that are true to themselves.
If you are a high achiever who is struggling with stress, burnout, or other mental health problems and prefer a less directive approach to therapy, existential therapy may be a helpful option for you. Consult with mental health professionals to learn more about existential therapy and to see if it is right for you.
Tips for Achieving Success From Existential Therapy
Here are some additional tips for high achievers who are considering existential therapy:
Find a therapist who is experienced in existential therapy
Existential therapy is recognized by the American Psychological Association as a valid treatment approach, and it requires licensed practitioners to have intensive training in this specific focus to provide it. It is important to find a therapist who is experienced in using it. (link to my page How do I find an Existential Therapist)
Be willing to be open-minded
Existential therapy is for individuals who want a less directive approach to explore his/her thoughts, feelings, and experiences in search of meaning and purpose. Therapists do not provide advice or solutions. They do not see people as a diagnosis, a deficit, cognitive schema, etc. Existential therapists strive to empower individuals to create his/her own meaning and to live a meaningful life.
Be patient
Existential therapy takes time to work, as it focuses on reevaluating old values and establishing a new value system through the process of self-exploration and self-understanding. Additionally, focus is placed on your emotional experiences and decision making, while shifting the responsibility for your own existence to you.
If you are willing to put in the work, existential therapy can be a helpful therapy for high achievers who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, loneliness, purposelessness, or other mental health challenges.
How do I find an Existential Therapist?
Start your search for a therapist who can provide Existential Therapy (ET) by looking for a licensed professional: psychologist, mental health counselor, social worker or other credentialed mental health professions that have training and experience implementing this form of treatment. While there are no certification requirements for therapists providing ET, clinicians must have formal training in ET in order to practice it. Be sure to ask about the therapist’s training and experience during your first meeting. It’s also important to note that while these credentials are important, it is also essential to choose a therapist that is the right match for you.
Find a therapist who is experienced in Existential Therapy
An existential therapist is required to have formal clinical supervision and training with this specific treatment modality. To provide this form of psychotherapy, the licensed psychologist or other mental health professional should have experience working with clients who are struggling with existential issues. It is important to find a therapist who you feel comfortable with and who you can trust to talk about your specific concerns. Existential therapists may be found in private practice, institutions, or health clinics.
Contact a mental health professional organization
There are many mental health professional organizations that can help you find an Existential therapist. These organizations can provide you with a list of therapists who are members of their organization and who are qualified to provide ET.
Schedule a consultation
Once you have found a therapist that you are interested in, schedule a consultation. This will give you a chance to meet with the therapist and to see if they are a good fit for you.
Get Existential Therapy in Florida
Thank you for reading this resource on Existential Therapy. With over two decades of experience as a licensed psychologist, I've developed a deep understanding of the human mind, encompassing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects. This extensive background equips me to effectively address a wide range of challenges people face. By combining research-based approaches with personalized care, I help clients achieve meaningful and lasting change. My priority for you is to create a kind of space where you feel at ease, understood and connected so that you can be yourself and work on the matters most important to you. I will help you cultivate self-compassion, curiosity, courage along with effective strategies to create the type of life you want.
My clients are remarkable individuals. It is a privilege to earn their trust and share in their most personal experiences. I see my clients as heroes in their life story, and I am inspired by their courage, strength and resilience.
I am Donna Hillier, a licensed clinical psychologist serving high-achieving clients in Florida. I provide discreet services uniquely customized for high-profile personalities, public figures and elite individuals who desire genuine connection and help from a professional who truly understands
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Who Donna Treats
I am Donna Hillier, a licensed clinical psychologist serving high-achieving clients in Florida. I provide discreet services uniquely customized for high-profiled personalities, public figures and elite individuals who desire genuine connection and help from a professional who truly understands.
Where Donna Serves Clients
Donna provides services to clients globally online, as well as in person in the Fort Lauderdale and South Florida areas. Here are some of the great cities Donna serves in Florida:
Treatment techniques Donna Uses
Donna provides therapy for high achievers using a variety of evidence-based treatment techniques including the following: