Rather than delving into the past to decipher mental health concerns, existential psychotherapists explore how clients are confronting the existential givens (freedom, responsibility, loneliness and isolation, meaning and meaninglessness, and death) in the here and now. Even when past events are explored, this is done within a context of meaning-making and understanding the consequences of past choices. Through meaning-making, you learn to accept the past and live fully in the present with a sense of freedom, purpose, intention, and agency to make new, more adaptive choices. Understanding that you are not defined by your past empowers you to live actively and to use your core values and attitudes to determine the trajectory of your life.
 
Loneliness and isolation are primary concerns for every human being; most humans are socially-relationally oriented and seek connection with others. Existential psychotherapists help clients decipher the meaning of their experiences of disconnection, confront the anxiety that often comes with facing challenging relationship realities and contemplating a process of change, and embrace responsibility for their choices and decisions.

Existential psychotherapy facilitates a process of self-exploration, self-awareness, and self-motivation that empowers you to take ownership of your life, explore present moment experience with curiosity, and find meaning in the here and now. It is applicable to a variety of mental health concerns including trauma, anxiety, depression, codependency, substance and alcohol abuse, behavioral dependencies, loss, and grief. It is especially helpful for those who struggle with making healthy choices and with taking responsibility, and is a core facet of my therapeutic work with identity reintegration.

​For more information about my experience working with existential psychotherapy, or to schedule an appointment, please feel free to contact me.