What Is Existential Therapy? A Science-Based Guide

When people hear the word existential, they often think of philosophy, late-night conversations, or even angst-filled novels. But existential therapy is a structured, evidence-informed approach that uses these big questions to support mental health and personal growth.

Unlike therapies that focus only on reducing symptoms, existential therapy explores how we understand ourselves, our freedom, our relationships, and the meaning we create in our lives.

Through Existential Therapy, what might be revealed for you?

The Foundations of Existential Therapy

Existential therapy grew out of European philosophy in the 20th century, influenced by thinkers such as Søren Kierkegaard, Friedrich Nietzsche, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Viktor Frankl.

It’s built around what existential psychologists sometimes call the “givens of existence” (Yalom, 1980):

1. Freedom and responsibility – the reality that we choose how to respond to life, and those choices shape who we become.

2. Isolation – the understanding that, even in close relationships, each of us experiences life in a uniquely personal way.

3. Meaninglessness – the need to create purpose and values in a world without pre-set answers.

4. Mortality – our awareness of death, which can bring both anxiety and motivation to live authentically.

   
   

Rather than avoiding these realities, existential therapy invites clients to confront them directly — and in doing so, often reduces anxiety and increases resilience.

Frameworks and Key Approaches

Several frameworks guide existential therapy in practice:

• Frankl’s Logotherapy: Developed after Viktor Frankl’s experiences in concentration camps, logotherapy is centered on finding meaning as a way to survive suffering. Research shows that meaning-oriented approaches can improve resilience and well-being (Vos, Craig, & Cooper, 2015).

• Yalom’s Existential Psychotherapy Model: Psychiatrist Irvin Yalom developed a widely used framework emphasizing the four “givens” and how they show up in clinical work.

• Meaning-Centered Therapy: Especially effective in palliative care, this approach helps people preserve dignity, purpose, and identity when facing illness or end of life.

• Integration with Other Modalities: Many therapists blend existential therapy with CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy), ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy), or mindfulness — creating a flexible, personalized approach.

  
  

What Science Says

Existential therapy has been studied across diverse contexts:

• A 2015 meta-analysis found that meaning-centered and existential therapies significantly improved psychological well-being, reduced distress, and enhanced hope, particularly in people facing cancer, grief, or life transitions (Vos, Craig, & Cooper, Psychotherapy).

• Research in palliative care shows that existential approaches help patients manage fear of death and maintain a sense of purpose (Breitbart et al., 2010).

• Integrating existential concepts into trauma therapy has been shown to reduce post-traumatic stress and support long-term recovery (Southwick, Litz, Charney, & Friedman, 2011).

  
  

While existential therapy is less “manualized” than CBT, evidence suggests it’s a valuable approach for people grappling with questions of meaning, identity, and resilience.

What a Session Looks Like

A session might involve:

• Exploring where you feel most authentic versus where you feel pressured by outside expectations.

• Identifying your core values and how they guide choices.

• Reflecting on how you cope with uncertainty, loss, or mortality.

• Considering where you feel freedom in your life and where you feel stuck.

  
  

Rather than offering quick fixes, existential therapy is a collaborative process of reflection and exploration.

Who Benefits from Existential Therapy?

This approach can be particularly helpful for:

• People in life transitions (career change, divorce, parenthood, retirement).

• Individuals facing grief, illness, or mortality.

• Clients struggling with anxiety, depression, or emptiness, especially when tied to questions of purpose.

• Those seeking to live a more authentic and values-driven life.

  
  

Why It Matters

In a world where productivity and performance are often emphasized, existential therapy reminds us that mental health is also about meaning, freedom, and connection. By working with a therapist trained in this approach, clients can learn to face life’s uncertainty with more courage, clarity, and compassion.

Exploring Existential Therapy with Fika Mental Health

At Fika Mental Health, our therapists understand that healing isn’t just about reducing symptoms — it’s about helping you connect with your values, your sense of self, and the life you want to live.

Whether you’re feeling stuck, questioning your path, or navigating a major life transition, our team can help you explore these challenges through an existential lens. We integrate evidence-based approaches with warmth, empathy, and deep respect for your unique journey.

✨ Ready to explore existential therapy? Book a consultation with Fika Mental Health and take the next step toward living with more meaning and authenticity.