One of the modalities that informs the work of The Mane Intent is existential therapy. This is a type of psychotherapy that is grounded in existential philosophy, focusing on the human experience, personal responsibility, and the search for meaning. It is concerned with helping individuals understand and confront the fundamental questions of life, such as:
- What is the meaning of life?
- Who am I?
- Why do I exist?
- What is my purpose?
Key themes of existential therapy include:
- Freedom and Responsibility: Emphasizing the freedom of individuals to make choices and the responsibility that comes with those choices. Existential therapy encourages people to take ownership of their decisions and actions.
- Meaning and Purpose: This therapy helps individuals explore and create meaning in their lives, especially in the face of life’s inherent uncertainty, suffering, and death.
- Authenticity: Encouraging individuals to live authentically by aligning their actions with their true self, rather than conforming to societal expectations or external pressures.
- Death and Mortality: Exploring the awareness of one’s mortality and how it can affect choices, relationships, and one’s approach to life.
- Isolation and Connection: Addressing feelings of existential isolation, and helping individuals find authentic connections with others while accepting that ultimate isolation is a part of the human condition.
Existential therapists do not focus on symptoms or diagnose specific mental health conditions in the traditional way. Instead, they work to help individuals face their anxieties, fears, and existential dilemmas, encouraging a deep reflection on how one lives, makes choices, and finds purpose.
Overall, existential therapy is about embracing the complexities and uncertainties of life, while finding ways to live a meaningful and fulfilling existence. It tends to be less directive than some other forms of therapy, and emphasizes the personal growth and exploration of the client.
At The Mane Intent, we provide virtual and in-person psychotherapy and equine-assisted psychotherapy. We adopt a humanistic approach to therapy and our practice is informed by cognitive behaviour therapy and existential therapy among other healing modalities. We are located 15 minutes east of Peterborough, Ontario. We are currently welcoming new clients. No wait list. Click here to book your first session.
