Humanistic Therapy

Humanistic therapy is a broad approach to therapy that encompasses many different therapy types into one treatment plan. It is based on an ancient philosophy created to bring meaning into our lives. 

Humanism as a Philosophy

Humanism is considered ancient philosophy, but it actually gained notability in the Renaissance era. Italian philosopher, Francesco Petrarca, laid the foundation for humanism in the early renaissance and is considered the “father of humanism.” 

Humanism is a secular philosophy, saying that we should be good humans for the sake of humanity. It rides on the idea that the decisions we make as individuals and as groups should be done singularly for the welfare of others. 

There are five key features of humanism that are important to understand:

1. Humans evolved naturally like other living creatures.Our natural tendencies give us the capacity for good.
2. The world is a natural place without supernatural or divine influence.
3. Humans are granted one life and it is our duty to make the most of that life by doing the most good we can while alive. We must make this life meaningful.
4. Empathy-driven ethics are paramount. What you do in life impacts others.
5. Humans alone are responsible for making the world a better place

At humanism’s core is the belief that we, as humans, are innately good. Rather than focusing on a client’s symptoms, humanistic therapy focuses on their unique human experience. 

Applying Humanism to Talk Therapy 

Humanism is about bringing meaning to your life and yours alone. Although what you do impacts others, your own actions are what matter. Humanistic therapy removes the outside influences of a person and examines their character traits and their potential for growth. 

At humanism’s core is the belief that we, as humans, are innately good.

Humanism encourages someone to use their natural instincts to do good for themselves. It is all about personal fulfillment by using these evolved traits to find meaning in life. How you feel about yourself is central to who you are as a person.

A Holistic Approach

In humanistic therapy, you will examine yourself from all angles—the past, the present, and the future. You will focus on your sense of self, your strengths, your growth and growth potential. 

It is an approach that looks at the individual as who they are as a whole person, rather than one aspect of their life. Rather than focusing on and isolating singular aspects of yourself such as your relationships, mental health issues, or struggles with addiction, it considers all of you as a whole. 

Similarity Among Humanistic Therapies

There are various types of humanistic therapies, but there are a few aspects that are universal among all of them. There are three core conditions that a humanistic therapist must adhere to: 

• Empathy—the therapist works to understand and accept all thoughts, emotions, actions, and experiences of the client.
• Unconditional positive regard—the therapist is never judgmental or critical of the client and creates an open space for anything the client wants to share.
• Congruence—the therapist is genuine, real, and equal with the client rather than being superior or authoritative.

These are used as the base for the therapist in any humanist therapy approach. Therapy requires you to build a relationship with your therapist. Humanism encourages you to develop one that is full of empathy, authenticity, and trust.

Different Types of Humanistic Therapy 

Humanistic therapy is a broad umbrella for several different types of talk therapy. Every type of humanistic therapy emphasizes examining a person as a whole, rather than singular events in their lives, struggles, or emotions. 

Client-Centered Therapy 

This type of therapy involves unconditional acceptance of the client from the therapist. It involves active listening and motivational interviewing to emphasize a person’s strengths. Client-centered therapy is driven by the client themselves.

Humanism encourages you to develop [a relationship with your counselor] that is full of empathy, authenticity, and trust.

The client is strong and capable and able to decide what they want to explore, how, and when. The therapist helps them “detangle” their thoughts and helps them move things along if the client gets stuck.

Existential Therapy 

Existential therapy is rooted in existentialism. It emphasizes personal freedom. You have the freedom to create meaning in your life and freedom to do the things you do. No one else is responsible except you.

Like client-centered therapy, the client is in charge of the direction of the therapy in existential therapy.

Gestalt Therapy 

This type of therapy emphasizes the present. It focuses on how you are feeling right now about a certain situation, thought, or emotion.

Even if a conflict happened in the past, a therapist can help you understand how it is affecting you in this moment. Gestalt therapy utilizes a lot of narrative therapy techniques such as role-playing and acting therapy. Some consider narrative therapy itself to be another form of humanistic therapy. 

Who Can Benefit From Humanistic Therapy 

Because humanistic therapy is so broad, many people can be helped by this approach to therapy. It can aid in treating mental health disorders such as:

• Depression
• Anxiety 
• Addiction
• Interpersonal conflict and relationship issues 
• Trauma 
• Self-esteem 
• General life difficulties 

This therapy can help clients who are not focused on treating one specific condition as well. It provides a safe, supportive space full of empathy and understanding for a person to open up and play an active role in growing and bettering themselves as a person however they choose. 

Focusing on a person's strengths and positive qualities helps people feel empowered and capable in their abilities to enjoy the here and now while being confident they can weather the storms when they come. 

It encourages people to be true to themselves and their uniqueness. Clients begin to  understand their personal view of the world and of themselves in order to live in synchronicity with this and find meaning. 

It Might Not Be For Everyone

You and your therapist can work together to figure out which therapy approach is best for you. Humanistic therapy is a great option for all kinds of people and difficulties, but it may not be the right one for you. 

People with more intense issues, like severe anxiety, may need a program with a little more direction—at least at first.

Humanistic therapy is not goal oriented, nor is it used to treat specific disorders or symptoms. Rather, it is best for people that are prepared to take on an active role in their introspection. People will benefit from humanistic therapy when they can drive their own therapy and personal growth with the help of a therapist by their side. 

Ready to Collaborate with Your Counselor?

Sequoia Behavioral Health utilizes humanism and humanistic therapy for clients that are ready to find meaning and take responsibility for their actions. It is one of many types of therapy that clients will partake in at Sequoia.

We know that each person is unique and as such requires tailored, individualized mental health treatment. That’s why we use an integrative and holistic approach for All of our clients. Reach out today to create healthy change and create your own meaning.