How do existential therapists facilitate a sense of purpose?

Existential therapists facilitate a sense of purpose by guiding individuals to discover or create personal meaning in their lives. This approach is rooted in the belief that each person has the capacity to define their own existence and find significance through their choices, experiences, and reflections. Rather than imposing values or relying on societal norms, existential therapy encourages self-exploration and personal responsibility, allowing clients to forge their own paths toward fulfillment and authenticity.

Clients are encouraged to confront life’s inherent challenges, including uncertainty and existential dread, and through this process, they can identify what truly matters to them. By facilitating discussions around individual beliefs, values, and desires, therapists help clients to explore their identity and life purpose deeply. This individualized process is essential to existential therapy, as it honors the uniqueness of each person's journey and empowers them to take ownership of their lives.