In this article, we will Explain the Goals, Views of Human Nature, Techniques and Role of the Counsellor according to the Existential Approach to Counselling.
Existential Approach to Counselling.
The Existential Approach to Counselling is based on the philosophy of existentialism, which focuses on the individual’s experience of existence and the search for meaning and purpose in life. Here are the key aspects of the existential approach, including its goals, views of human nature, techniques, and the role of the counsellor:
Goals:
The primary goal of existential counselling is to help individuals explore and make sense of their own existence, values, and choices. It aims to facilitate personal growth, self-awareness, and a greater understanding of one’s authentic self. The focus is on helping individuals live more authentically and meaningfully, embracing their freedom and taking responsibility for their choices.
Views of Human Nature:
Existential counselling views humans as unique individuals with the capacity for self-awareness and freedom of choice. It acknowledges the existential concerns that arise from the experience of living, such as questions about meaning, purpose, freedom, and mortality. Existentialists emphasize that individuals have the potential for personal growth and self-actualization, but they also face anxiety and existential dilemmas in navigating life’s challenges.
Techniques:
Existential counselling employs various techniques to explore the client’s experience and facilitate self-discovery. Some commonly used techniques include:
- Phenomenological Exploration: The counsellor helps the client focus on their immediate experience and explore their subjective perceptions, thoughts, and emotions in the present moment.
- Reflection and Clarification: The counsellor engages in active listening and reflective questioning to encourage the client’s exploration of their values, beliefs, and concerns.
- Existential Inquiry: The counsellor helps the client explore existential themes and dilemmas, such as freedom, responsibility, death, meaning, and personal values. This exploration may involve open-ended questions, guided reflections, and dialogue.
- Encouraging Authenticity and Responsibility: The counsellor fosters an environment that encourages the client to take ownership of their choices, values, and actions. They support the client in embracing their freedom and accepting responsibility for their lives.
Role of the Counsellor:
In the existential approach, the counsellor serves as a facilitator, providing a safe and non-judgmental space for the client to explore their existential concerns. The counsellor aims to be authentic, empathetic, and present with the client, establishing a genuine and trusting therapeutic relationship. They help the client gain insight into their values, beliefs, and choices, and assist them in developing strategies to live more authentically and meaningfully.
The role of the counsellor also involves challenging the client’s assumptions, encouraging personal responsibility, and promoting personal growth and self-awareness. The counsellor does not provide ready-made answers or solutions but rather helps the client engage in a process of self-discovery and self-actualization.
Overall, the existential approach to counselling focuses on the individual’s subjective experience, their quest for meaning, and the exploration of existential themes. By embracing personal freedom and responsibility, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves, live authentically, and find meaning and purpose in their lives.
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