According to existentialism, human nature is best described as being in constant change. Humans are always evolving and recreating themselves through their projects. Through asking questions in an effort to make sense of their existence, humans develop in six dimensions: the capacity for self-awareness; freedom and responsibility; creating one's identity and establishing meaningful relationship with others; the search for meaning, purpose, values, and goals; anxiety as a condition of living; and awareness of death and non-being. Therapeutic goals in existential therapy focus on assisting the client to realize their potential through accepting the freedom and responsibility to act that comes with being human, which will lead to their being able to live a more authentic life. This is accomplished by challenging a client's rigid habits to increase his or her sense of autonomy.
Tags: Person centered therapy techniques, Existential therapy techniques, Existential techniques
[...] Person-centered therapy operates on the assumption that all people have an actualizing tendency, which is an inherent striving toward autonomy and fulfillment, and provides an internal source of healing, although it does not affect our need for socialization. The therapeutic goals of person-centered therapy emphasize a person's independence and integration. The focus of therapy is on the person, and not their presenting problem, as therapy is aimed at assisting the growth process of the overall person and not just solving problems. [...]
[...] Also, existential therapy leaves few options for clients whose problems are organically based, and may truly be out of their control. In my own counseling style, I would like to incorporate the emphasis on client responsibility and ability to influence the outcomes of his or her life. The therapeutic relationship and true empathy are also important concepts I will incorporate. I would like to be more technique-oriented though, except perhaps with clients who have a higher-than-average level of motivation for change. [...]
[...] I think the reason why person-centered therapy is so effective with crisis intervention is because people who are otherwise mentally healthy and come across and unusually difficult situation in their lives are able to learn to apply what they already know to their new situation. There are many people in the world in need of mental health, however, who do not have many life skills and are not easily able to look inside themselves and think logically about how to deal with their life's problems. [...]
[...] The therapist/client relationship is considered more important than any technique in existential therapy and is the source of change for the client. Through the therapist's honesty and courage, the client and therapist are able to journey into self-discovery together. The therapeutic relationship is to be intimate and caring instead of professional and distant. This is established as the therapist shares genuine concern and empathy for the client, while being aware that his or her presence is more important than the content of his or her words. [...]
[...] Techniques in person-centered therapy have evolved over time, starting with reflective listening to understand the client's world, while today techniques are much more flexible in order to accommodate to individual clients as reflected in the therapist's personality. Although an assessment is standard in most therapy practices, the client's self-assessment is considered more important for person-centered therapy. Tests at the outset of therapy are avoided to prevent the client from getting the impression that the therapist will be providing solutions to their problems. [...]
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