What Is Existential Therapy and How Can It Help You Find Meaning?
- Jamee Leichtle
- May 31
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 18
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Questions about purpose, freedom, isolation, and
mortality might feel heavy or confusing, and that’s completely natural. Existential therapy offers a way to explore these deep questions and help you find meaning in your unique life experience.
At RFC Counseling in Colorado, we believe that understanding yourself and your place in the world can lead to profound healing and personal growth. An existential approach can be a powerful approach for anyone searching for clarity and connection in their mental health journey.
What Is Existential Therapy?
Existential therapy is a form of psychotherapy rooted in the philosophy of existentialism, focusing on human existence, freedom, and the search for meaning. Rather than treating symptoms alone, existential therapy invites you to explore life’s big questions and your personal values, helping you confront challenges with authenticity and courage.
Developed by influential psychologists like Viktor Frankl, Rollo May, and Irvin Yalom, existential therapy encourages self-reflection about topics such as...
The meaning and purpose of life
Personal freedom and responsibility
Isolation and connection with others
Facing the reality of death
This approach emphasizes your capacity to create meaning even in difficult or uncertain times.
Why Choose Existential Therapy?
If you’re feeling stuck, lost, or disconnected, this approach can help you reconnect with what truly matters to you. It’s especially useful when dealing with...
Feelings of emptiness or lack of purpose
Anxiety about life changes or mortality
Struggles with isolation or loneliness
The desire to live authentically according to your values
Existential therapy doesn’t give you quick answers but supports you in discovering your own path with deeper awareness and intention.
What Happens in Existential Therapy?
During sessions, your therapist creates a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings about life’s challenges. Rather than focusing on fixing problems right away, the process centers on understanding your experience and empowering your choices. Your therapist may encourage you to reflect on questions like...
What gives your life meaning?
How do you want to live despite uncertainty?
What personal freedoms do you want to claim?
How do you cope with feelings of isolation or fear?
Together, you’ll work toward greater self-awareness, acceptance, and living with purpose.
Whether you’re navigating a major life transition, wrestling with existential questions, or seeking more meaning and fulfillment, existential therapy offers tools to live more authentically and fully.
Frankl, V. E. (1963). Man’s Search for Meaning. Beacon Press.
Yalom, I. D. (1980). Existential Psychotherapy. Basic Books.
May, R. (1983). The Discovery of Being: Writings in Existential Psychology. W.W. Norton & Company.
Therapy That Listens, Sees, and Supports Your Healing Journey
At RFC Counseling, we offer a safe, judgment-free space for healing and growth. We provide individual, couples, and family therapy to clients across Colorado. Our specialties include trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, self-esteem building, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and couples work. Using a trauma-informed, person-centered, and culturally responsive approach, we offer integrative, strengths-based therapy tailored to your unique needs. Take a first step toward healing and positive change. Book a free phone consultation today!
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