Emmy van Deurzen, a Dutch-born existential therapist who moved to the UK in 1977, has become a global phenomenon in psychotherapy. Her philosophical approach, which focuses on working with life rather than just the psyche, has inspired a new book titled Beginning to Live: The Art of Existential Freedom. In a recent interview, she discussed her journey, her methods, and her views on the mental health crisis.
From Anti-Psychiatry to Existential Therapy
Van Deurzen initially worked with the Arbours Association in London, a therapeutic community based on the ideas of RD Laing. However, she found that anti-psychiatry had 'lost courage' by leaving people to their own devices. This led her to establish the first existential therapy centre at Arbours, pioneering a philosophical approach that helps people make sense of their experiences and find healing.
The Core of Existential Therapy
Existential therapy is a philosophical approach that helps people live better lives by addressing existential questions. Van Deurzen draws on a rich heritage from ancient philosophers to modern thinkers like Viktor Frankl and Rumi. She believes that human beings are natural philosophers who need help cultivating meaning, courage, and freedom despite suffering.
Personal Journey and Professional Impact
Van Deurzen's early life in post-war Holland was marked by trauma and depression, leading to two suicide attempts. These experiences shaped her vocation. After studying philosophy and psychoanalysis in France, she developed her 'philosophical method' of Socratic dialogue with patients. She now heads Dilemma Consultancy and two training centres, influencing hundreds of existential therapists in the UK.
Challenging Modern Therapy Culture
Van Deurzen is critical of modern therapy speak, such as diagnosing others as narcissistic or toxic. She advocates for reclaiming freedom and robustness, encouraging philosophical discussions that help people understand how to live. She also believes that depression is a form of oppression, and therapy should help people no longer feel like victims.
The Interview and a Session
In a 100-minute session, the interviewer found the experience profound and life-altering. Van Deurzen's warm, inquiring manner challenged her to view life events differently, leading to reduced fear and increased optimism. The interviewer describes it as 'one of the most profound encounters of my life'.
Bringing Wisdom Back
Van Deurzen argues that society has lost track of the human spirit by focusing too much on materialistic and scientific pursuits. She believes we need to bring wisdom back into the world through existential thought, helping people live meaningful lives and create a civilization with a future. Her new book aims to make these ideas accessible to a general readership.
Beginning to Live: The Art of Existential Freedom by Emmy van Deurzen is published by Allen Lane. For support, contact Samaritans on 116 123 (UK) or other international helplines.
