Comparing Humanistic And Existential Psychotherapy

Comparing Humanistic Existential Psychotherapy With Other Approachesin

Comparing humanistic-existential psychotherapy with another psychotherapeutic approach involves understanding the core principles, methods, and theoretical foundations of each. Humanistic-existential psychotherapy emphasizes individual experience, personal responsibility, and the pursuit of meaning, focusing on the client's subjective perspective and innate capacity for growth (Yalom, 1980). It is rooted in existential philosophy and humanistic psychology, prioritizing authentic self-expression, awareness, and personal growth in a non-judgmental environment. The approach often explores existential concerns such as death, freedom, isolation, and meaning, assisting clients in confronting these issues to live more authentic lives.

For comparison, the cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is selected as the second approach. CBT is based on the cognitive model of mental health, emphasizing the projection of thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes influencing feelings and behaviors. It is structured, goal-oriented, and focuses on identifying and modifying dysfunctional thinking patterns to alleviate psychological distress (Beck, 2011).

The three primary differences between humanistic-existential psychotherapy and CBT include their foundational philosophies, therapeutic techniques, and aims. First, humanistic-existential therapy emphasizes subjective experience and personal meaning, encouraging clients to explore their authentic selves and existential dilemmas without prescribing specific actions (Bugental, 1965). In contrast, CBT centers on assessing and changing maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors to produce tangible symptom relief (Beck, 2011). Second, the therapeutic relationship in humanistic-existential therapy is non-directive and emphasizes empathetic understanding, authenticity, and unconditional positive regard, fostering self-awareness and acceptance (Rogers, 1961). Conversely, CBT is more directive, with therapists guiding clients through structured tasks like cognitive restructuring and behavioral experiments. Third, the goals of humanistic-existential therapy are primarily existential and developmental, such as finding meaning, authenticity, and acceptance (Yalom, 1980). CBT aims at symptom reduction and behavioral change, often with measurable objectives such as decreasing anxiety or depression scores.

As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), understanding these differences significantly impacts practice. For instance, integrating humanistic principles fosters a therapeutic environment that promotes trust, empathy, and individual agency, which can deepen engagement and facilitate long-term growth. Meanwhile, employing CBT techniques is effective in rapid symptom management and relapse prevention, especially for clients with depression or anxiety disorders. Recognizing when to utilize each modality allows for personalized care, aligning interventions with client preferences and presenting issues, ultimately leading to more effective mental health outcomes.

In the video reviewed, the patient exhibited feelings of despair, identity confusion, and an existential crisis surrounding mortality and purpose. Humanistic-existential psychotherapy was utilized because the approach prioritizes authentic engagement with existential concerns, helping the patient explore personal meaning amidst existential anxiety (Yalom, 1980). The therapist fostered a safe, empathetic environment, encouraging the patient to confront fears about death and search for purpose, which aligns with the approach’s focus on self-awareness and acceptance. This method was the treatment of choice because it allowed the client to process profound existential distress without judgment and to develop a richer understanding of their subjective experience.

If an alternative approach, such as CBT, had been applied instead, the focus would shift from exploring existential meaning to modifying negative thought patterns related to mortality and despair. For example, the therapist might target catastrophic thinking about death or feelings of hopelessness, aiming for symptom reduction rather than existential integration. While this could alleviate some distress temporarily, it may not address the underlying search for meaning and authenticity central to the client’s struggles. Literature indicates that existential approaches often promote enduring change by confronting core fears and fostering resilience, whereas CBT provides rapid symptom relief but may leave deeper existential issues unaddressed (Yalom, 1980; Bugental, 1965). Therefore, the choice of therapy influences the depth and sustainability of the therapeutic outcome.

In summary, humanistic-existential psychotherapy and CBT differ significantly in their philosophy, techniques, and goals. The former emphasizes understanding and accepting the human condition to foster authentic living, while the latter seeks to modify dysfunctional thoughts to improve functioning. For PMHNPs, applying this knowledge enhances therapeutic flexibility and effectiveness. The choice of therapy is tailored to client needs—focusing on meaningful change in one instance or rapid symptom management in another—thus optimizing mental health care delivery.

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References

Beck, J. S. (2011). Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond. Guilford Press.

Bugental, J. F. T. (1965). The Search for Authenticity: An Existential-Transactional Approach. Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 5(2), 51–69.

Rogers, C. R. (1961). On Becoming a Person: A Therapist's View of Psychotherapy. Houghton Mifflin.

Yalom, I. D. (1980). Existential Psychotherapy. Basic Books.

Yalom, I. D. (1989). The Gift of Therapy: An Open Letter to a New Generation of Therapists. Harper.

Frankl, V. E. (2006). Man's Search for Meaning. Beacon Press.

Corey, G. (2013). Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy. Cengage Learning.

Hoefer, R., & Goodman, S. (2017). The integration of existential and humanistic approaches in contemporary psychotherapy. International Journal of Humanistic Psychology, 23(1), 4–18.

McLeod, J. (2013). An Introduction to Counselling. Open University Press.

Prochaska, J. O., & Norcross, J. C. (2010). Changeology: The Psychology of Self-Change. McGraw-Hill Education.