ABSTRACT
In working with clients from an existential perspective, we need to keep in mind that we do not seek to eliminate their problems nor specifically try to cure them of any pathology. We aim to help them describe, clarify and unravel their relationship to the world in all its different dimensions, and to make the most of their particular way of being. We enable them to question their assumptions and investigate their values and get a sense of where they are and where they want to be. But most of all we endeavour to be fully present in our therapeutic relationship in order to draw our clients out of their hiding places and enable them to start relating to their own life and themselves in a more real and lucid manner. Work can be short, medium or long term, but in no case should we hold on to a client beyond the time period for which the client wants to be committed. We should not expect to see any dramatic developments or sudden changes, for these are not within the scheme of this approach which contents itself to be a reflection on life and living. Of course paradoxically, such a lack of hurry and such full attention to what really matters often has the effect of facilitating amazing transformation. We should not count on this happening and it does not always happen. Some people persist with their worldview not matter how much we try to help them to question it or see it from different angles.
