Frequently Asked Questions
What is Existential-Humanistic Therapy?
Existential-Humanistic therapy is a style of talk therapy that uses a philosophical approach to help individuals understand why they act, feel, and think the way they do, and to explore what it means to be human. It is a style of therapy that developed from existential & humanistic philosophical traditions and for this reason does not rely solely on a medical or psychological model for understanding mental illness and mental health.
Existential-humanistic therapy helps people to not only cope with their issues but to encourages them to grow, face their problems, and learn how to overcome them.
The goal of existential-humanistic therapy is not just symptom relief, but to help people take responsibility for creating a life that allows them to be more authentic and experience more freedom.
Do I have to be diagnosed with a mental illness in order to seek therapy?
No, you do not have to be mentally ill in order to seek therapy, but if you plan to use health insurance benefits to pay for your therapy, a mental health diagnosis must be given.
The most important requirement is a willingness to show up and try to engage in thoughtful self-reflection about your life. If you’re seeking easy answers and immediate relief, you might not find them working with an existential therapist. But if you’re looking for someone to support and guide you as you face your anxieties, it might be worth it to give this type of therapy a try.
What issues do you treat with therapy?
Existential-humanistic therapy is good for a variety of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance abuse, relationship conflicts, and can also be tailored to help with other mental health issues.
Will I be cured if I go to therapy?
No, to put it simply. The goal of existential-humanistic therapy isn’t to cure individuals. Many of the issues that contribute to mental illness are inevitable parts of living. Through reflection, existential therapy It’s about helping people to become more skillful in the art of living. Of course you will experience relief as you learn how to do this—there will be improvements to self-image, relationships, and other behaviors. But you will still face challenges that are an inevitable part of living. That won’t change, but your ability to handle them will.
How long does therapy last?
It depends on several factors such as the severity of your problems, your level of commitment to therapy, financial resources, and determinations from insurance companies (if you elect to use insurance benefits). A person may decide to engage in therapy as little as one time or engage in the process for several years, depending on their needs.
When do I know that I’m done with therapy?
The decision to complete therapy is ultimately up to the individual, but its best if it is arrived at in collaboration between the therapist and the client after reviewing the progress a client has made towards their initial goals that were set at the beginning of the therapeutic relationship.
Do you work with children and adults?
I only provide therapy to adults aged 18 or older as they are legally able to make their own decisions on whether or not to participate in therapy. If asked to work with a minor, I will not do so, but may consider providing family therapy as an alternative if there is serious interest in this style of therapy.
Do you prescribe medications?
No, I am not qualified to prescribe mediations. Any medication needs will have to be addressed with another provider whose license does allow them to prescribe medication such as a medical doctor or some psychologists. I collaborate with other providers to ensure the client is receiving the best possible care.