The Key Concepts Of Existential Therapy

Emmy van Deurzen and Martin Adams’s book Skills in existential counseling and psychotherapy (2011) provides an articulate exposition of the concepts that encompass the existentialism. The theory itself possesses a philosophical foundation with a practical emphasis on how to live a meaningful life (Deurzen & Adams, 2011). The process of creating this awareness does not focus on identifying symptoms but highlighting the evaluation a client’s reactions to life’s challenges. Thus, explaining the notion that human beings are fluid representations of consciousness which are indivisible from this world and whose responsibility is to reflect on one’s whole self (Deurzen & Adams, 2011). The following book review covers key components on existentialism
The existential approach emphasizes on questioning one’s existence, to gain control of his/her life. Accepting death or even the possibility of having a meaningless life causes what existentialists refer to existential anxiety. There are two reactions to existential anxiety, to embrace or to evade. Welcoming this method of questioning can result in a deeper understanding of themselves and how they see themselves in this world, while evading means to reject life (Deurzen & Adams, 2011).
Authenticity. Depending on how one reacts to the existential anxiety determines the authenticity of the individual. Existentialists refer to individuals as inauthentic when they reject responsibility to take control of their life. The prime emphasis is to strive for authenticity, though it is unlikely one will always achieve it. Inauthenticity is the norm, but when one lacks the urge to understand the uncertainties of life, he/she may develop existential guilt—the feeling that one did not take advantage to create meaning. (Deurzen & Adams, 2011). Therefore, even though questioning existences involves some anxiety, the outcome of finding meaning outweighs the possibility of living in
Personal dimension of existence. The personal dimension of existence emphasizes the relationship a person has with themselves and understanding one’s character and experiences. The paradox of this existential layer is coming to terms with one’s weakness but still finding that personal strength to continue. The unsolvable dilemma is that people may take responsibility for their decisions but still seek a set of rules to base their life by (Deurzen & Adams, 2011).
Spiritual dimension of existence. The most inner dimension of existence includes the relationship one has with the unknown and how he/she develops this ideal figure to live by. One is required to reflect on his/her values and determine if they coincide with his/her religious worldview. Thus, the unsolved dilemma is accepting one’s fate by adhering to a spiritual principle. The paradox is that when one is aware that a complete value system is unattainable, he/she must develop his/her own values to reflect a meaningful life (Deurzen & Adams,