Humanistic and existential therapies offer a powerful alternative to clinical or diagnostic-based models of therapy. These approaches prioritize the deeply personal aspects of healing and growth, focusing on meaning, authenticity, choice, self-awareness, and emotional depth. Rather than viewing symptoms as problems to fix, these therapies support individuals in understanding their experiences, cultivating a more expansive sense of self, and navigating life’s inherent challenges with greater presence and purpose.
At the Center for Mindful Psychotherapy, we honor the human capacity for transformation and self-realization. Many of our therapists are grounded in these humanistic and existential traditions, creating relational, respectful spaces that invite clients into a deeper conversation with themselves.
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Each of the therapies below takes a unique route to explore questions of identity, suffering, freedom, and meaning. Some are more experiential or body-based, others draw on psychodynamic or creative techniques, but all share a commitment to honoring the whole person.
Humanistic Therapy
Humanistic therapy centers around empathy, self-actualization, and the belief in every person’s innate drive toward growth. It creates a safe and supportive space where individuals can explore their feelings, experiences, and goals without judgment. This modality supports clients in cultivating self-acceptance and meaning, offering a warm and validating environment for working through life’s challenges.
Gestalt Therapy
Gestalt therapy focuses on awareness and integration in the present moment. Through experiential practices like role-play or creative techniques, clients explore unresolved emotions, inner conflicts, and patterns of behavior. Gestalt helps people develop a clearer understanding of how they relate to themselves and others, with a focus on authentic expression and emotional clarity.
Formative Therapy
Formative therapy is a holistic approach that blends elements of psychodynamic, humanistic, and existential therapies. It helps individuals reflect on how they’ve been shaped—emotionally, psychologically, and relationally—while supporting the creation of more authentic narratives and ways of being. This approach integrates deep self-exploration with creativity and somatic awareness to foster transformation and empowerment.
Existential Therapy
Existential therapy engages clients in a philosophical exploration of freedom, choice, mortality, and the human condition. It helps individuals confront existential anxiety and uncertainty while supporting them in crafting meaningful lives. Rather than offering solutions, existential therapy opens space to reflect deeply on what it means to live fully, with courage and intention.
AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy)
AEDP is a transformational, emotion-focused therapy rooted in attachment theory and neuroscience. It provides a safe space to process and integrate challenging emotional experiences, particularly those related to trauma, loss, or relational wounds. With an emphasis on emotional transformation and relational healing, AEDP supports clients in accessing their resilience and capacity for connection.
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Each of these approaches speaks to the depth, complexity, and beauty of the human experience. Whether you’re drawn to philosophical inquiry, creative exploration, or emotion-focused transformation, our humanistic and existential therapists are here to walk alongside you.
There are also other therapy types that might interest you. Explore those options by choosing the “How We Help” option in the menu above and perusing the dropdown menus.
You can also browse our therapist directory to find someone who fits your needs, or contact us to get help finding the right support.
Browse our Therapist Directory