Chapter 6- Existential Therapy

Existential therapy is grounded on the findings of many therapists. Some of the therapists mentioned in the reading are: Simone de Beauvior, Albert Camus, Martin Heidegger, Soren Kierkegarrd, Fredrich Nietzsche, and Paul Sarte. In reading this chapter, this theory seems very similar to person-centered, in which the therapist does not make any assessment. Many of the founding therapists in this theory believe that the counselor should also not use any techniques, while others believe that the use of techniques are needed. Also, unlike person-centered, the goals of this theory is to help the client unlock their full potential through examination/emphasis on their current history.  

While I see great uses of this theory in counseling, I do not like that it does not regard the past. In many of my contacts with students, their past usually plays an important role in their current issues and frustrations. According to the book, this method is deemed great when working with multicultural clients, but based on my multicultural book this method may not be good. According to my multicultural book and class, many multicultural clients are not willing to openly share information and some beliefs may be based on family views. Hence it is important as a client to be aware of these traditions and not take much of a stand-offish approach, as it may make clients feel uncomfortable. Based on reading this chapter, my experience and my multicultural class I do not see myself using this technique much.