Where Existential Therapy Fits
Existential therapy is often most helpful after some degree of stability has been established. This type of therapy is for those seek something deeper.
Many clients come to therapy needing support, skills, reassurance or help regulating intense emotions. That work matters. It builds safety. It creates ground.
Existential therapy begins after that when a different question emerges:
“I’m functioning, but something still feels missing.”
“I understand myself, but I don’t feel fully alive.”
“I want to live more truthfully, not just cope better.”
This approach is not primarily about symptom management or performance improvement. It is about meaning, choice, responsibility and authenticity as lived experiences.
For this reason, existential therapy is often best understood as second-phase therapy.
What “Second-Phase” Means Here
It means you are likely able to:
tolerate reflection without the need of constant reassurance
remain present with discomfort without immediately needing it fixed
explore desire, ambivalence or uncertainty without moral judgment
be seen without needing to perform or please
Existential therapy asks less “How do I manage this?”
and more “How do I want to live?”
That shift requires a certain kind of readiness.
When Existential Therapy May Not Be the Best Starting Point
Existential therapy tends to be most helpful for those who are ready to explore experience at a reflective pace rather than seeking immediate reassurance, structured strategies or directive guidance. Many people benefit from approaches that offer more active support, skills or symptom-focused relief, especially in earlier phases of healing.
If you find yourself wanting that kind of care right now, it simply points to a different therapeutic fit. I’m always glad to help connect you with resources that are better aligned with what you’re needing at this moment.
A Different Kind of Therapeutic Relationship
In existential therapy, the therapeutic relationship itself is part of the work.
You will be met with presence rather than praise.
Curiosity rather than evaluation.
Honesty rather than rescue.
This can feel unfamiliar at first, especially if you have learned to stay safe by “being good,” “easy” or accommodating.
Over time, many clients experience this as deeply relieving.
Is Existential Therapy Right for You?
Existential therapy may be a good fit if you are:
drawn to depth rather than technique
curious about the meaning beneath symptoms
willing to move slowly and thoughtfully
open to being seen without needing to be praised
If you are unsure, we can explore this together in an initial consultation.
There is no pressure to be ready.