About Therapy

PHILOSOPHY BASED THERAPIES

Existentialism

Existentialism is a way of thinking about life, rather than a specific set of therapeutic techniques. It focuses primarily on awareness and free will. With our uniquely human ability of self-awareness, we can reflect upon our thoughts, feelings, and actions. As a result, life has given us the awesome responsibility of freedom, being able to choose the ways we wish to live. We can create our lives according to our own values, or we can abdicate this freedom and live according to values chosen for us by our parents, society, etc - we are free to make that choice as well. The existential therapist focuses on helping the person become aware of how she is handling her freedom. As the client learns to accept responsibility for her choices, she can create a life of meaning and purpose, based upon her own sense of her deepest truth. Also, by being aware of our own mortality, we are able to appreciate much more fully the magic of the present moment.

In our case example, the therapist focuses on creating an authentic relationship with Sharon. The therapist believes that the best thing he can offer it is his own authenticity, integrity and courage; and that through their relationship, Sharon will learn how to relate to another person from her own center. It is the awakening of this sense of self that will allow Sharon to break the shackles of her past conditioning.

In regards to the shyness, the therapist, in a kind yet firm manner, may confront Sharon, showing her that the shyness is an attempt to escape the freedom of directing her own life. Sharon is responsible both for her actions, and for her failure to take action. Instead of trying to cure Sharon's anxiety about being shy, the therapist teaches her that a certain level of anxiety is part of living with the freedom to create one's own life. The therapist would also help Sharon to identify what inside herself is blocking her freedom, and to become aware of the possibilities in the present and future.

Feminist Therapy

Feminist therapy focuses on empowering women. This is done by helping them see the impact of gender role conditioning; become more assertive, and strengthening their self esteem. A unique aspect of this therapy is the focus on transforming both the individual and society. This is reflected in techniques that include power analysis and intervention, journal writing, and social action. Core to the feminist therapy perspective is the belief that all relationships should strive for equality; therefore, the therapist is not seen as an "expert," but rather as someone with an outside perspective who can provide new information and guidance. It is the client who is seen as having the power to create the desired change within themselves and in their lives; and it is the reclaiming of this personal power that is the core goal of this therapy.

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