What does existential therapy aim to enhance for clients?

Existential therapy fundamentally focuses on increasing clients' awareness of their emotional and psychological states as a means of understanding themselves more deeply. This therapeutic approach emphasizes the importance of facing and exploring issues related to existence, such as meaning, freedom, isolation, and death. By enhancing awareness of their emotional and psychological condition, clients can confront their anxieties and struggles, leading to personal growth and a more authentic life.

This exploration helps clients identify their emotions and the underlying factors contributing to them, empowering them to find meaning in their experiences. Unlike approaches that might prioritize behavioral modifications or delve primarily into subconscious motivations, existential therapy encourages a holistic view of a person’s experience, promoting self-discovery and authentic living.