Instead of viewing difficult emotions as obstacles to avoid, suppress, or ‘fix,’ existential psychotherapy invites you to see them as doorways to what truly matters—and to living your fullest life.

Feelings of fulfillment, contentment, or pride may signal that you’re aligned with your values and moving toward your potential.

In contrast, emotions like depression, apathy, or lethargy often indicate that something in your life is out of harmony with your needs or values. These feelings can guide you to areas that need attention, adjustment, or transformation.

Your emotions also offer valuable clues about your current place in your life story: Are you grieving a loss? Feeling unfulfilled in your relationships? Disconnected from yourself or others? Or perhaps struggling in an environment that feels isolating or oppressive?

In this way, your emotions illuminate what you care about most. Ignoring or suppressing them risks losing touch with your inner wisdom and the insights essential for living a full, authentic, and meaningful life.