Which of the following is NOT an essential aim of existential-humanistic therapy?

Which of the following is NOT an essential aim of existential-humanistic therapy?

• A. To help clients become more present to themselves and others
• B. To assist clients in identifying ways they block themselves
• C. To challenge clients to assume responsibility for designing their lives
• D. To dispute clients' irrational beliefs

Answer: (D)

The answer regarding which aim is not essential to existential-humanistic therapy is based on the fundamental focus of this therapeutic approach. Existential-humanistic therapy emphasizes personal growth, self-awareness, and the inherent value of human experiences. Its core aims include helping clients become more present to themselves and others, assisting them in identifying their self-imposed barriers, and challenging them to take responsibility for their lives. Disputing clients' irrational beliefs is more characteristic of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which directly addresses thought patterns and beliefs that are deemed irrational or maladaptive. In contrast, existential-humanistic therapy does not primarily focus on disputing beliefs but rather encourages individuals to explore their existence, shape their own meaning, and confront the realities of their own lives. Therefore, while addressing irrational beliefs can be a helpful component in some therapeutic contexts, it is not an essential aim of existential-humanistic therapy.

The answer regarding which aim is not essential to existential-humanistic therapy is based on the fundamental focus of this therapeutic approach. Existential-humanistic therapy emphasizes personal growth, self-awareness, and the inherent value of human experiences. Its core aims include helping clients become more present to themselves and others, assisting them in identifying their self-imposed barriers, and challenging them to take responsibility for their lives.

Disputing clients' irrational beliefs is more characteristic of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which directly addresses thought patterns and beliefs that are deemed irrational or maladaptive. In contrast, existential-humanistic therapy does not primarily focus on disputing beliefs but rather encourages individuals to explore their existence, shape their own meaning, and confront the realities of their own lives. Therefore, while addressing irrational beliefs can be a helpful component in some therapeutic contexts, it is not an essential aim of existential-humanistic therapy.