Humanistic-existential psychotherapy

Humanistic-existential psychotherapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the individual's subjective experience of the world. It is based on the belief that humans are inherently good and have the capacity for growth and self-actualization. The therapist in this approach creates a warm and accepting therapeutic relationship in which the client can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. The goal of therapy is to help the client become more aware of their own values and to live a more authentic and meaningful life. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The therapist in this approach helps the client identify and challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs. They also teach the client coping skills to help them manage their emotions and behaviors. CBT is a well-researched and effective therapy for a variety of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. Differences Between Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy and CBT Here are some of the key differences between humanistic-existential psychotherapy and CBT:

• Focus: Humanistic-existential psychotherapy focuses on the individual's subjective experience of the world, while CBT focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
• Goals: The goal of humanistic-existential psychotherapy is to help the client become more aware of their own values and to live a more authentic and meaningful life. The goal of CBT is to help the client identify and challenge their negative thoughts and beliefs, and to teach them coping skills to manage their emotions and behaviors.
• Techniques: Humanistic-existential psychotherapy uses techniques such as reflection, empathic listening, and open-ended questioning. CBT uses techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral activation, and exposure therapy.

How These Differences Might Impact My Practice as a PMHNP As a PMHNP, I would consider the following factors when deciding which approach to use with a particular client:

• The client's individual needs and preferences: Some clients may prefer the more humanistic approach of humanistic-existential psychotherapy, while others may prefer the more structured approach of CBT.
• The severity of the client's symptoms: CBT is often a more effective treatment for clients with severe symptoms, while humanistic-existential psychotherapy may be a better fit for clients with milder symptoms.
• The client's cultural background: The client's cultural background may also influence the type of therapy that is most effective. For example, some cultures may value the more traditional approach of humanistic-existential psychotherapy, while others may prefer the more Western approach of CBT.

Video Example In the video "Existential Therapy with a College Student," the therapist uses humanistic-existential psychotherapy to help the client explore their anxiety about death. The therapist creates a warm and accepting therapeutic relationship, and they help the client to identify and challenge their negative thoughts about death. The therapist also helps the client to find meaning in their life, and to live a more authentic life. Expected Potential Outcome if CBT Had Been Used If CBT had been used with the client in the video, the therapist would have helped the client to identify and challenge their negative thoughts about death. They would have also taught the client coping skills to manage their anxiety. It is possible that CBT would have been an effective treatment for this client, but it is also possible that the client would have preferred the more humanistic approach of humanistic-existential psychotherapy. Sources

• Humanistic-Existential Therapy (American Psychological Association, 2022)
• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (American Psychological Association, 2022)
• Comparing Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (Psych Central, 2018)

   

Sample Solution

Humanistic-existential psychotherapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the individual's subjective experience of the world