Case Conceptualization with Existential Psychotherapy: A Discussion on Its Application and Effectiveness

Running Head: PSYCHOLOGY 1
Existential Theory
Author's Name
Institutional Affiliation
Abstract

PSYCHOLOGY 2
The paper offers a case conceptualization using existential theory and discusses the case
of Dr. Gregory House from the television show “HOUSE.” The paper offers an explanation of
Existential Theory and its efficacy when dealing with depression, addiction, and anxiety. There
are potential ethical issues and multicultural issues that may arise with the theory. After making a
synopsis about the present problems in the client’s case, three effective interventions are
designed based on the existential theory. The intervention techniques are described to explain
how they will help address the identified problems of depression and substance abuse in the
client. Finally, spiritual application in counseling is discussed and if it is compatible with the
Existential Theory. The objective of the paper is to understand the Existential Theory and discuss
its application and effectiveness in psychotherapy and counseling. Existential theory-based
interventions work as an effective therapeutic technique that promotes the clients’ personal
growth and development as well as improves his relationship with his counselor and others
around him.
Introduction

PSYCHOLOGY 3
Case Conceptualization with existential psychotherapy
Psychotherapy and philosophical counseling have been evolving in different professions
in parallel and helping counselors and psychologists, There are different methods of
psychotherapy, and existential psychotherapy is one of them. Existential psychotherapy is based
on the framework of Existential Theory that seeks the existential meaning behind the issue
(Popescu,2015). The concept of existential therapy refers to the conscious feelings and thoughts
expressed by an individual honestly and discover true meaning and authenticity (SAMHSA,
2017).
Who is/are the developer(s) of the theory?
Abraham Maslow promoted the notion of “self-actualization,” and promoted the
Existential therapy as a humanistic theory (SAMHSA, 2017). Carl Rogers framed person-
centered therapy while Fritz Perls focused on Gestalt therapy. Association for Humanistic
Psychology (AHP) was founded by Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, Rollo May, Charlotte Buhler
and other initiators of the personal development movement as a forum for sharing information
(SAMHSA, 2017).
What did they believe about human nature and the counseling process?
Humanistic psychologists argue that humans are a lot more than the assembly of
behaviors and humanistic psychology is described as holistic. The holistic, humanistic approach
interrelates to the biological, social, psychological and spiritual dimensions (SAMHSA, 2017).
Existentialism is seen as an existential attitude and a way of life.
Explain any research that has been done showing the efficacy of this theory.
National Health Service (NHS) clinicians and patients involved in humanistic and
phenomenological approaches report higher effectiveness of Existential Therapy (Stephenson &