What do practitioners of existential therapy believe about the nature of human existence?

Practitioners of existential therapy emphasize that human existence involves a dynamic relationship between freedom and responsibility. They believe that individuals are inherently free to make choices about their lives, which is a fundamental aspect of the human condition. This freedom, however, comes with responsibility—the obligation to make choices that align with one's values and beliefs while being aware of the consequences of those choices.

The interplay of freedom and responsibility fosters self-awareness and personal growth, which are central to the therapeutic process in existential therapy. Clients are encouraged to explore their options, confront their limitations, and take ownership of their lives, leading to more authentic and fulfilling experiences.

This perspective acknowledges the potential for chaos and uncertainty in life but encourages individuals to find meaningful ways to navigate their existence. Instead of viewing existence as purely defined by external influences or as strictly meaningless, existential therapy frames the human experience as one in which individuals actively engage with their uniqueness, choices, and the impact of those choices on themselves and others.