Why is the concept of 'here and now' significant in existential therapy?

The significance of the 'here and now' concept in existential therapy lies in its emphasis on present experiences for self-awareness. This approach encourages individuals to fully engage with their current thoughts, feelings, and situations, fostering a deeper understanding of themselves and their existence. By focusing on the present moment, clients are invited to confront their immediate feelings and experiences, which can lead to insights about their life choices, values, and identity.

This foundational aspect of existential therapy supports the idea that individuals have the capacity to shape their lives through conscious awareness and decision-making in the present. By cultivating mindfulness and presence, clients can begin to recognize patterns that may have been influenced by past experiences or future anxieties, thereby empowering them to take responsibility for their present choices.

In contrast, focusing on memories of the past may lead to rumination without facilitating the self-awareness needed for personal growth, while planning for the future can result in anxiety if it detracts from current experience. Diverting attention from current issues does not align with the therapeutic goal of promoting awareness and understanding, which can hinder personal development. Thus, the concept of ‘here and now’ is central in fostering authentic engagement with one’s life as it unfolds.