What is the role of values in existential therapy?

The role of values in existential therapy is fundamentally tied to helping individuals define their personal purpose. In this therapeutic approach, values serve as pivotal elements that guide clients toward a deeper understanding of themselves and the meaning of their lives. By exploring and identifying their core values, clients can clarify what is truly important to them, leading to more authentic decision-making and a personalized sense of direction.

In existential therapy, emphasis is placed on individual agency and responsibility. Therefore, assisting clients in recognizing their values is crucial for them to construct a life that resonates with their genuine selves. As clients engage in this exploration, they often uncover insights about their aspirations, passions, and the motivations that drive them, which empowers them to create a sense of purpose in their lives that is aligned with their values.

While other options suggest roles that values might play, they miss the core existential focus on personal meaning and the subjective experience of the individual.