Understanding Existential Therapy in Context

Existential therapy is a philosophical and humanistic approach to psychotherapy. Rather than treating specific symptoms in isolation, it seeks to support individuals in exploring the deeper questions of life—freedom, death, responsibility, and meaning. It encourages clients to examine how they relate to themselves, others, and the world around them.

The goals of existential therapy are not about fixing people, but about empowering them to live with greater authenticity and intention. This modality is particularly relevant during times of emotional uncertainty, major life transitions, or a search for personal direction.

Finding Meaning in the Midst of Struggle

A central goal of existential therapy is helping clients make sense of their experience. Whether navigating grief, anxiety, burnout, or feeling “stuck,” clients are invited to look beyond the immediate discomfort to the questions it raises: What matters to me? Where do I find purpose? What do I want to stand for?

This meaning-making process supports clients in reconnecting with values and internal resources, rather than relying solely on external solutions. Therapists working from an existential lens help create space for honest reflection without judgment or pressure to be “fixed.”

Freedom and Responsibility: Choosing One’s Path

One of the most transformative goals of existential therapy is supporting individuals in recognising their freedom—and the responsibility that comes with it. We may not choose all of life’s circumstances, but we always have the power to choose our response.

This therapeutic approach invites clients to become more conscious of their decisions and take ownership of their choices. For many, this leads to a shift from passivity to agency, especially when confronting challenges like career dissatisfaction, relationship difficulties, or a loss of direction.

Cultivating Authenticity and Presence

Existential therapy also places a strong emphasis on authenticity—living in alignment with one’s values and beliefs, rather than conforming to societal expectations or past conditioning. This means learning to recognise the masks we wear, the roles we play, and the ways we avoid discomfort.

Through the therapeutic relationship, clients are invited to show up fully, which can lead to a deeper sense of presence and self-trust. In this way, the goals of existential therapy extend beyond insight and into real, embodied change.

Supporting Life Transitions and Emotional Crises

Existential therapy is particularly suited to those facing significant life changes—whether it’s a death, divorce, retirement, identity shift, or a loss of meaning. It holds space for the unknown, recognising that transitions often bring disorientation, grief, and uncertainty alongside potential for growth.

Rather than rushing to solutions, existential counselling honours the depth of these experiences, helping clients move through them with greater clarity and resilience. Therapists in this modality focus on “being with” rather than “doing to,” which many clients find grounding and liberating.

Who Can Benefit from This Approach?

The existential approach is not only for philosophers or deep thinkers. It is accessible and relevant to anyone feeling emotionally overwhelmed, lost, or seeking greater self-understanding. Clients who appreciate reflective space, emotional honesty, and values-based exploration often find this approach resonant.

Many Registered Clinical Counsellors (RCCs) across British Columbia integrate existential themes into their work, especially those offering grief counselling, trauma-informed care, or relational therapy. If you're looking for a therapeutic space that honours both your inner world and your life’s complexity, existential therapy may be a meaningful fit.

Existential Therapy in British Columbia

In BC, individual counselling sessions rooted in existential therapy are increasingly accessible, both in-person and online. If you're seeking support in making sense of your life experiences or navigating a difficult chapter, working with a therapist grounded in existential philosophy can offer a compassionate, non-pathologising space.

Final Thoughts

At its core, the goal of existential therapy is not to erase suffering—but to transform it into a doorway for reflection, responsibility, and meaning. By facing life’s uncertainties with openness and courage, many clients find not only relief, but a deeper sense of aliveness and direction.