Humanistic-existential psychotherapy
Briefly describe humanistic-existential psychotherapy and the second approach you selected.
Explain at least three differences between these therapies. Include how these differences might impact your practice as a PMHNP.
Focusing on one video you viewed, explain why humanistic-existential psychotherapy was utilized with the patient in the video and why it was the treatment of choice. Describe the expected potential outcome if the second approach had been used with the patient.
Support your response with specific examples from this week’s media and at least three peer-reviewed, evidence-based sources. Explain why each of your supporting sources is considered scholarly. Attach the PDFs of your sources.
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.
- 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.
- 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)