IJSP Number 2, 2020

46 concrete example in which some psychotherapeutic guidelines would not have the success that existential psychotherapy might have. 2. STUDIES ON THE EXISTENTIAL APPROACH TO PSYCHOTHERAPY A fundamental philosophical position of existential psychotherapy is the inter-connection of human existence. Existential philosophers suggest that our existence is found in the world and, fundamentally, in our relationships with others [5]. The existential approach to psychotherapy can be considered a controversial orientation, because it has a rather integrative than independent orientation. In other words, in many situations, existential psychotherapy, although considered to be a particular orientation, always wants to integrate other forms of therapy into its process. However, there are still studies showing the clear functionality and effectiveness of this form of therapy. A study made in Iran by Tavghvaeinia et. al. [6] regarding two groups of 12 women, one experimental and one control group, at an infertility clinic between June and September 2015, had significant outcomes. The experimental group had 8 individual meetings of existential psychotherapy, while the control group had no such sessions. The people involved were all women admitted to the Gynaecology and infertility clinic in Dehdasht. The results of the study showed a significant improvement in the general state of mental health of infertile people, who had 8 individual psychotherapy sessions, compared to those who did not have a therapy session. Therefore, in cases of this magnitude the use of the existential method is advisable. In their studies, Bohart and Tallman [7] noted that clients are primarily considered as passive recipients of psychotherapy. Interestingly, however, is also how resilient and resourceful they are when they overcome their difficulties. In this study, the attitudes of therapists demonstrate the facilitation of the client’s active commitment, which is then considered as one of the key positive development factors [7]. Thus, the principle of non-knowledge becomes essential, as it can lead the therapist to be present constantly and fully committed to meetings with his client. [8] In addition, truly exploring one’s own experience, communicating effectively with others in an open attitude, can lead to a genuine and satisfying life [9]. A qualitative study [10] shows the relationship between Terror Management Theory (TMT) and the implications of existential-integrative psychotherapy. More specifically, how the terrifying situations bring the individual to the point of death anxiety, due to their awareness of the human condition and implicitly their