NRNP 6645 Week 7 Assignment: Comparing Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy with other Approaches Example Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Comparative Analysis

NRNP 6645 Week 7 Assignment: Comparing Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy with other Approaches Example

Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Comparative Analysis

Psychotherapy encompasses a diverse array of approaches designed to assist individuals in navigating their psychological difficulties. Two prominent therapeutic frameworks, humanistic-existential psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), are widely utilized in clinical practice, yet they diverge profoundly in their underlying principles and techniques. This paper offers a succinct overview of two therapeutic approaches, highlights their fundamental differences, and examines the application of humanistic-existential psychotherapy in a specific case scenario. Additionally, it evaluates the potential implications if CBT had been utilized with the client, drawing upon relevant scholarly literature.

Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy

Humanistic-existential psychotherapy is an integrated approach that emphasizes personal development, self-reflection, and the pursuit of meaning. It is grounded in the interrelated philosophical frameworks of humanism and existentialism. Humanism highlights the individual’s potential for self-realization, growth, and the intrinsic value of each person, while existentialism concentrates on the human experience, encompassing the themes of freedom, isolation, mortality, and the search for purpose (Heidenreich et al., 2021). These approaches motivate individuals to investigate their lived experiences, feelings, and cognitions while grappling with the realities of existence.

The humanistic-existential therapist serves as a facilitator, assisting clients in comprehending their personal challenges and choices while cultivating an environment of empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. The focus is on the present moment, enabling clients to explore their emotions and behaviors without judgment. This approach is beneficial for individuals seeking to examine their identity, purpose, and self-determination.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a structured, goal-oriented approach that concentrates on identifying and modifying dysfunctional thought patterns and maladaptive behaviors. Grounded in the cognitive theories of Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis, CBT proposes that cognitive distortions—irrational or negative thoughts—contribute to emotional distress and problematic behaviors (Crisp & Gabbard, 2022). Challenging maladaptive thoughts and substituting them with more balanced perspectives can facilitate emotional relief and enhance individual functionality.

CBT is generally time-limited and entails a collaborative process between the therapist and the client. The therapist assists the client in identifying and modifying unhelpful thought patterns through techniques such as cognitive restructuring, behavioral experiments, and exposure therapy (Crisp & Gabbard, 2022). Extensive research has demonstrated the efficacy of this intervention, particularly in the treatment of affective disorders, anxiety conditions, and specific phobias.

Differences Between Humanistic-Existential Psychotherapy and CBT

Difference #1: Focus on Meaning vs. Problem-Solving

A key distinction between humanistic-existential psychotherapy and CBT lies in their respective therapeutic focuses. Humanistic-existential therapy prioritizes assisting the individual in exploring existential questions and discovering personal meaning (Heidenreich et al., 2021). The therapist, in this approach, encourages the client to reflect deeply on their life experiences, personal autonomy, and accountability. In contrast, CBT is more problem-oriented and goal-directed as it aims to identify and address specific maladaptive thoughts and behaviors and develop practical interventions to modify them (Crisp & Gabbard, 2022). The focus of CBT is on resolving immediate issues rather than exploring deeper existential concerns.

As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, this distinction can inform the selection of therapeutic approaches tailored to the client’s needs. For a client exploring personal growth or contending with existential concerns such as grief or life transitions, humanistic-existential therapy may be more suitable. Conversely, for a client struggling with a specific mental health condition like depression or anxiety, CBT may offer more expedient and targeted symptom relief.

Difference #2: Role of the Therapist

Humanistic-existential psychotherapy adopts a non-directive approa