How might an existentially oriented therapist interpret Ursula's anxiety after 9/11?

The interpretation of Ursula's anxiety after 9/11 as normal in light of her traumatic experience aligns closely with the principles of existential therapy. This therapeutic approach posits that anxiety is a natural response to profound events, especially those that challenge an individual’s sense of safety and understanding of the world. Experiencing a traumatic event like 9/11 can profoundly shake an individual's perception of existence, leading to feelings of anxiety as they grapple with the meaning of such upheaval in their lives.

Existential therapists recognize that anxiety is often a reflection of facing existential concerns, such as the unpredictability of life and the inevitability of death. In Ursula's case, her anxiety can be seen not as a pathological condition but as a legitimate emotional response to an extraordinary circumstance that many others also experienced. This perspective emphasizes empathy and understanding rather than labeling her feelings as signs of mental illness or as something that needs to be corrected through medication. Instead of viewing her anxiety as something abnormal, an existentially oriented therapist would aim to help Ursula explore her feelings, reflect on her experiences, and find meaning in the aftermath of the trauma, thereby allowing her to navigate her anxiety in a constructive manner.