Notes on Existential Psychotherapy, Part II: What does it mean to live Authentically?
Inauthenticity can show up in various ways. For instance, someone might pursue a career to meet parental expectations or societal standards, even if it doesn’t align with their passions. Others may suppress their personal beliefs or stay in unfulfilling relationships out of fear of judgment or loneliness. Many people adopt behaviours or lifestyles that feel disconnected from their true selves, neglect personal aspirations due to fear of failure, or prioritise material achievements as substitutes for genuine fulfillment.
Notes on Existential Psychotherapy, Part I: A Short History of Existential Therapy
Existential psychotherapy emerged from existential philosophy, aiming to apply its concepts to practical therapeutic work. In essence, it is a form of applied philosophy. Existential psychotherapists use philosophical ideas to help clients address the big questions of life and find answers that are meaningful and relevant to them.
Understanding and Coping with Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) in ADHD
Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) is a common but often overlooked aspect of ADHD. It refers to the intense emotional response some people experience when they perceive rejection, criticism, or failure, even if none is intended. These reactions can be overwhelming, causing feelings of intense shame or failure, often out of proportion to the actual situation.
What is Single Session Therapy?
Single Session Therapy (SST) is a focused, goal-oriented therapeutic approach designed to address a specific issue in just one session. SST is not about cramming everything into a single meeting, nor is it a quick fix. Instead, it’s a structured and intentional session where the therapist and client work collaboratively to achieve a meaningful outcome in a short amount of time.
Reclaiming Reality: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse Through Existential Therapy
Narcissistic abuse significantly erodes a victim's sense of self and reality. Those affected typically come to therapy feeling confused, believing that they are at fault, and thinking there is something wrong with them that needs fixing. This self-doubt can be even more entrenched if the abuse began in childhood. As victims’ sense of self-worth and reality become heavily dependent on the narcissist, they often start therapy with very little confidence in their own sense of reality and self.