What is one goal of existential therapy regarding client behavior?

The goal of existential therapy in relation to client behavior emphasizes the importance of clients taking decisive action and embracing their freedom to make choices. This approach encourages individuals to confront their own existence, acknowledge their responsibilities, and engage fully in the process of living. By challenging clients to take decisive action, therapists aim to empower them to create meaning in their lives, rather than merely conforming to external expectations or standards. This process includes recognizing the implications of their choices, facing the anxiety that may arise from these decisions, and ultimately fostering a sense of authenticity and self-determination.

In existential therapy, the focus is not on eliminating anxiety but rather on understanding and navigating it as part of the human experience. Furthermore, while cognitive restructuring is a valuable technique in some therapeutic approaches, it may not capture the depth of existential concerns that prioritize individual meaning-making and personal growth. Thus, the objective remains centered on action and choice, reinforcing the essence of existentialism as it pertains to client behavior.