Existential Therapists in Nashville, TN

Photo of Nashville Center for Trauma & Psychotherapy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Nashville Center for Trauma & Psychotherapy
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Do you feel stuck or lost in the midst of grief? Do you feel burdened by life’s transitions, existential concerns, or relational issues? Are you ready to re-claim your narrative and find meaning in your journey but unsure where to start? These struggles can feel overwhelming, stealing the best of our time, energy, and connections. You may notice intense emotions, ranging from despair, anger, guilt, anxiety, and everything in between. You might feel like you’ve lost hope. If you feel this describes you, I seek to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your emotions, sit with the hard questions,
Do you feel stuck or lost in the midst of grief? Do you feel burdened by life’s transitions, existential concerns, or relational issues? Are you ready to re-claim your narrative and find meaning in your journey but unsure where to start? These struggles can feel overwhelming, stealing the best of our time, energy, and connections. You may notice intense emotions, ranging from despair, anger, guilt, anxiety, and everything in between. You might feel like you’ve lost hope. If you feel this describes you, I seek to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your emotions, sit with the hard questions,
(629) 265-1166 View (629) 265-1166
Photo of Dr. Philip Chanin, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Dr. Philip Chanin
Psychologist, EdD, ABPP, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
In my 46 years of practice as a psychologist, in Tennessee, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire, I have had the honor and privilege of working with so many patients on their paths of exploration, personal growth, and healing. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic, existential, and Buddhist theories, with a focus on integrating mindfulness and compassion with self and others. It is my belief that the quality of the psychotherapy relationship between therapist and patient is the principal healing force in treatment. Thus, I do my best to form a good and ethical therapeutic relationship with each of my patients.
In my 46 years of practice as a psychologist, in Tennessee, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and New Hampshire, I have had the honor and privilege of working with so many patients on their paths of exploration, personal growth, and healing. My approach is grounded in psychodynamic, existential, and Buddhist theories, with a focus on integrating mindfulness and compassion with self and others. It is my belief that the quality of the psychotherapy relationship between therapist and patient is the principal healing force in treatment. Thus, I do my best to form a good and ethical therapeutic relationship with each of my patients.
(615) 656-7188 View (615) 656-7188
Photo of Arden Lynde, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Arden Lynde
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I take an eclectic approach to counseling, incorporating multiple therapeutic modalities into my practice, but often using an attachment framework and existential lens to conceptualize treatment.
I see therapy as the process of realizing that we have more choices than we thought we did. I am guided by the belief that every human being is worthy and capable of change, and that connection is the epicenter of human healing. As such, I strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, support and acceptance. It takes bravery to seek help, and I feel honored to walk alongside my clients. I recognize the validity of all gender identities and expressions, sexual orientations, races and religions and aim to create relationships/spaces with my clients in which they feel free and safe to be themselves.
I take an eclectic approach to counseling, incorporating multiple therapeutic modalities into my practice, but often using an attachment framework and existential lens to conceptualize treatment.
I see therapy as the process of realizing that we have more choices than we thought we did. I am guided by the belief that every human being is worthy and capable of change, and that connection is the epicenter of human healing. As such, I strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, support and acceptance. It takes bravery to seek help, and I feel honored to walk alongside my clients. I recognize the validity of all gender identities and expressions, sexual orientations, races and religions and aim to create relationships/spaces with my clients in which they feel free and safe to be themselves.
(615) 903-0207 View (615) 903-0207
Photo of Lauren S Kelley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Lauren S Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My therapeutic approach is drawn from different but complementary perspectives, including psychodynamic, positive and existential therapies.
“If I had an hour to solve a problem, I’d spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and five minutes thinking about the solutions." -- Albert Einstein. I also believe that the quality of the solution you generate is in direct proportion to your ability to identify the problem you hope to solve. My goal in therapy is to provide you with a safe space to tell your story, to sort through it, examine it and make peace with it. In this process, my hope is that you will be able to clarify your strengths, values and goals and identify practical solutions to overcoming barriers to living a full and meaning-centered life.
My therapeutic approach is drawn from different but complementary perspectives, including psychodynamic, positive and existential therapies.
“If I had an hour to solve a problem, I’d spend 55 minutes thinking about the problem and five minutes thinking about the solutions." -- Albert Einstein. I also believe that the quality of the solution you generate is in direct proportion to your ability to identify the problem you hope to solve. My goal in therapy is to provide you with a safe space to tell your story, to sort through it, examine it and make peace with it. In this process, my hope is that you will be able to clarify your strengths, values and goals and identify practical solutions to overcoming barriers to living a full and meaning-centered life.
(615) 697-4556 View (615) 697-4556
Photo of Marissa Smarto, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Marissa Smarto
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37214
I take a relational, trauma-informed approach to therapy and integrate existential, attachment, and mindfulness-based modalities.
Instead of being taught how to cope skillfully with painful experiences and feelings, many of us are taught to numb, hide, or ignore them. This often intensifies the suffering, and also is often the only thing we know. I provide a safe space where clients can express, process, and learn about their thoughts, feelings, and emotions without judgment. I help clients to develop more workable coping skills and habits so that they can move toward their goals and live in alignment with identified values. If "being positive" hasn't worked for you, you may be in the right place.
I take a relational, trauma-informed approach to therapy and integrate existential, attachment, and mindfulness-based modalities.
Instead of being taught how to cope skillfully with painful experiences and feelings, many of us are taught to numb, hide, or ignore them. This often intensifies the suffering, and also is often the only thing we know. I provide a safe space where clients can express, process, and learn about their thoughts, feelings, and emotions without judgment. I help clients to develop more workable coping skills and habits so that they can move toward their goals and live in alignment with identified values. If "being positive" hasn't worked for you, you may be in the right place.
(615) 471-7011 View (615) 471-7011
Photo of Madison Fisher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Madison Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209
Are you exhausted by racing thoughts? Are you longing for space to process your emotions and thoughts without fear of judgment? Are nervous and on edge, but you don't know why? I work with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety, depression, family concerns, maternal mental health challenges, parenting challenges, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, existential concerns, and life transitions.
Are you exhausted by racing thoughts? Are you longing for space to process your emotions and thoughts without fear of judgment? Are nervous and on edge, but you don't know why? I work with individuals and groups experiencing anxiety, depression, family concerns, maternal mental health challenges, parenting challenges, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, existential concerns, and life transitions.
(615) 552-0519 View (615) 552-0519
Photo of David Montgomery Harb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
David Montgomery Harb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My areas of special focus include contemporary relationships, high-conflict couples, entertainment industry stressors, creative blocks and artistic inspiration, sex therapy, mood and personality disorders, as well as spiritual and existential crisis.
Hi, I’m David. As the founder and clinical director of Nashville Therapy Group, I can match you with a gifted therapist who is the best fit for your unique needs, or if you think we’re the right fit, we can work together as you make your way towards lasting positive change. As your therapist, we’ll explore your thoughts and feelings, and I’ll offer a fresh perspective using the latest evidence-based interventions. We will identify your potential for growth and challenge the beliefs and behaviors that keep you and your loved ones from experiencing happiness, harmony, and health.
My areas of special focus include contemporary relationships, high-conflict couples, entertainment industry stressors, creative blocks and artistic inspiration, sex therapy, mood and personality disorders, as well as spiritual and existential crisis.
Hi, I’m David. As the founder and clinical director of Nashville Therapy Group, I can match you with a gifted therapist who is the best fit for your unique needs, or if you think we’re the right fit, we can work together as you make your way towards lasting positive change. As your therapist, we’ll explore your thoughts and feelings, and I’ll offer a fresh perspective using the latest evidence-based interventions. We will identify your potential for growth and challenge the beliefs and behaviors that keep you and your loved ones from experiencing happiness, harmony, and health.
(615) 697-4781 View (615) 697-4781
Photo of Deborah E Doineau, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Deborah E Doineau
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
My early training as a psychologist involved the use of a developmental, humanistic/existential, client centered approach, but over time I have incorporated many other techniques, most notably Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Gestalt therapy.
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of approaches in working with my clients in an attempt to find the most efficacious approach to meet the particular client's needs. As a psychologist, I also perform psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes. For example, I evaluate cognitive ability, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and many other issues. Finding oneself can be a daunting task in our complex society. I aspire to help my clients achieve self understanding, a sense of efficacy, and develop tools to assist them in navigating life's challenges on their own.
My early training as a psychologist involved the use of a developmental, humanistic/existential, client centered approach, but over time I have incorporated many other techniques, most notably Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Gestalt therapy.
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of approaches in working with my clients in an attempt to find the most efficacious approach to meet the particular client's needs. As a psychologist, I also perform psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes. For example, I evaluate cognitive ability, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and many other issues. Finding oneself can be a daunting task in our complex society. I aspire to help my clients achieve self understanding, a sense of efficacy, and develop tools to assist them in navigating life's challenges on their own.
(615) 745-1058 View (615) 745-1058
Photo of Angela Hart, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Angela Hart
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I'm also keen to work with existential issues around life, death, spiritual journeys and suicidal ideation.
I've been in private practice for over 15 years and enjoy diversity in my office. My approach is really dependent on my clients unique needs. I would describe myself as caring and direct and have been told by my clients that my challenges to them are as beneficial as my empathy towards them. My hope is to sit with people in a focused, loving and generative way, helping my clients move towards a deeper sense of vitality, self-awareness and authenticity.
I'm also keen to work with existential issues around life, death, spiritual journeys and suicidal ideation.
I've been in private practice for over 15 years and enjoy diversity in my office. My approach is really dependent on my clients unique needs. I would describe myself as caring and direct and have been told by my clients that my challenges to them are as beneficial as my empathy towards them. My hope is to sit with people in a focused, loving and generative way, helping my clients move towards a deeper sense of vitality, self-awareness and authenticity.
(615) 669-0945 View (615) 669-0945
Photo of Christina Rumbaugh, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Christina Rumbaugh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
I approach therapy from an existential and narrative perspective, believing that the stories you tell about yourself and the meaning you ascribe to your experiences are essential to healing.
Who we were (or who we had to be) in the past doesn’t always match who we are now. We grow; we change; we develop our own ideas about the world and ourselves. And sometimes that causes us to feel stuck. We may wonder, is this what change is supposed to feel like? Where are we supposed to go from here? How do we make sense of values, behaviors, or even people when they don’t match up with how we want to live now? That confusion can be lonely. You’re not alone. We all ask ourselves these questions at some point. Whether you’re experiencing this “stuckness” for the first time or the tenth, I want to help you find your way back to you.
I approach therapy from an existential and narrative perspective, believing that the stories you tell about yourself and the meaning you ascribe to your experiences are essential to healing.
Who we were (or who we had to be) in the past doesn’t always match who we are now. We grow; we change; we develop our own ideas about the world and ourselves. And sometimes that causes us to feel stuck. We may wonder, is this what change is supposed to feel like? Where are we supposed to go from here? How do we make sense of values, behaviors, or even people when they don’t match up with how we want to live now? That confusion can be lonely. You’re not alone. We all ask ourselves these questions at some point. Whether you’re experiencing this “stuckness” for the first time or the tenth, I want to help you find your way back to you.
(615) 933-9828 View (615) 933-9828
Photo of Tennyson Dodd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Tennyson Dodd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
I also incorporate dimensions of cognitive, interpersonal, and existential therapies.
If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relational difficulties, I may be able to help you work through this distress. At some point in life, many people find themselves striving to understand and integrate difficult events or areas of their lives. Having a clinician to talk with can help you heal, adapt, and grow.
I also incorporate dimensions of cognitive, interpersonal, and existential therapies.
If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relational difficulties, I may be able to help you work through this distress. At some point in life, many people find themselves striving to understand and integrate difficult events or areas of their lives. Having a clinician to talk with can help you heal, adapt, and grow.
(615) 285-5549 View (615) 285-5549
Photo of Keeley Fritsch, LPC Intern in Nashville, TN
Keeley Fritsch
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I lean towards using a client-centered and existential approach to counseling, while also incorporating cognitive behavioral techniques.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or alone in life’s challenges? Together, we can navigate life’s challenges in a safe, non-judgmental space. I am passionate about a collaborative therapy process, that is built on an empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship. I strive to help my clients discover their strengths while also working to develop new coping skills.
I lean towards using a client-centered and existential approach to counseling, while also incorporating cognitive behavioral techniques.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or alone in life’s challenges? Together, we can navigate life’s challenges in a safe, non-judgmental space. I am passionate about a collaborative therapy process, that is built on an empathetic and trusting therapeutic relationship. I strive to help my clients discover their strengths while also working to develop new coping skills.
(615) 685-1942 View (615) 685-1942
Photo of Hazel House, PLLC / Lindsay E. Vaughn, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Hazel House, PLLC / Lindsay E. Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
We also help with preventative self-care, life transitions, and existential dilemmas, like discovering your purpose.
Many clients come to us after feeling stuck in talk therapy. Talking about your problems is helpful, but sometimes you need more! If you are ready to take your healing to the next level, please reach out! We integrate somatic and experiential therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, IFS, psychodrama, nature therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, Neurofeedback, holistic health coaching, and more, to go deeper, so you can truly heal from past experiences. There are no quick fixes - there is only the journey to truly know, love, and care for yourself, and our team of expert therapists is ready to take the journey with you.
We also help with preventative self-care, life transitions, and existential dilemmas, like discovering your purpose.
Many clients come to us after feeling stuck in talk therapy. Talking about your problems is helpful, but sometimes you need more! If you are ready to take your healing to the next level, please reach out! We integrate somatic and experiential therapies, such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, IFS, psychodrama, nature therapy, ketamine-assisted therapy, Neurofeedback, holistic health coaching, and more, to go deeper, so you can truly heal from past experiences. There are no quick fixes - there is only the journey to truly know, love, and care for yourself, and our team of expert therapists is ready to take the journey with you.
(615) 751-8303 View (615) 751-8303
Photo of Dan LaVelle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nashville, TN
Dan LaVelle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220  (Online Only)
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
I specialize in Chronic Pain, Anxiety, Trauma, Grief, Depression, and Existential Issues.
My goal is to utilize the individual strengths of all clients for the sake of enabling them to accomplish their goals, overcome hardships, and live up to their fullest potential. This possibility is readily available to all willing to adopt new perspectives and practices to their day to day lives. I am passionate about meeting clients where they are for the sake of discovering the perspectives and interests that make people excited about the lives they live. I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor/Mental Health Service Provider.
(615) 667-0330 View (615) 667-0330
Photo of Gabriel Starner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Gabriel Starner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
(615) 471-6433 View (615) 471-6433
Photo of Joash Koh, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nashville, TN
Joash Koh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, TLMFT, MMFT, MAPC, EFT-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211  (Online Only)
My approach is grounded in emotion-focused, attachment-based modalities and integrates somatic experiencing, blending existential and spiritual philosophies.
I curate my sessions to help you navigate these difficulties, allowing you to live with a greater sense of safety, connection, and satisfaction. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationships and intimacy. With years of clinical experience, I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, feeling stuck, or relationship issues, including infidelity, complex trauma, and abuse. I have many years of clinical experience working with diverse individuals and couples. My clients love my authenticity and healing space to rejuvenate and grow in effective therapy that aligns with their goals and values.
My approach is grounded in emotion-focused, attachment-based modalities and integrates somatic experiencing, blending existential and spiritual philosophies.
I curate my sessions to help you navigate these difficulties, allowing you to live with a greater sense of safety, connection, and satisfaction. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationships and intimacy. With years of clinical experience, I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, feeling stuck, or relationship issues, including infidelity, complex trauma, and abuse. I have many years of clinical experience working with diverse individuals and couples. My clients love my authenticity and healing space to rejuvenate and grow in effective therapy that aligns with their goals and values.
(615) 845-6236 View (615) 845-6236
Photo of Stephanie Bashirian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Stephanie Bashirian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
I welcome the opportunity to work with clients on whatever they might bring to therapy, though my areas of focus include couple therapy, life transitions, recovery from emotionally immature systems, attachment, adult survivors of childhood trauma (emotional, religious, sexual), spiritual/existential distress, issues of shame/self-worth, anxiety & depression.
My goal as your therapist is to create a relationship that you can use for your own growth. While I only practice evidence-based treatments informed by the latest research, I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Therapy is an art as much as a science, one that is meant to honor your unique story and specific goals. Together we will explore your inner world and identify the beliefs and patterns that are keeping you from experiencing your life in the healthiest, most fulfilling, and most meaningful ways.
I welcome the opportunity to work with clients on whatever they might bring to therapy, though my areas of focus include couple therapy, life transitions, recovery from emotionally immature systems, attachment, adult survivors of childhood trauma (emotional, religious, sexual), spiritual/existential distress, issues of shame/self-worth, anxiety & depression.
My goal as your therapist is to create a relationship that you can use for your own growth. While I only practice evidence-based treatments informed by the latest research, I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Therapy is an art as much as a science, one that is meant to honor your unique story and specific goals. Together we will explore your inner world and identify the beliefs and patterns that are keeping you from experiencing your life in the healthiest, most fulfilling, and most meaningful ways.
(615) 455-2490 View (615) 455-2490
Photo of Jennifer Mason, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Jennifer Mason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic stance is rooted in existential-humanistic philosophy, attachment, and developmental theory.
Navigating life’s inherent difficulties can be challenging. Sometimes therapy can help. From confronting issues such as loss/grief, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal problems, to facing significant life decisions or struggling with marital/relationship concerns, many factors can prevent any of us from engaging in our lives more fully. Whether you are new to therapy or you're returning to work through a new or lingering issue, creating a safe place to explore, understand, and respond to your concerns is crucial. Utilizing warmth and transparency, I hope to cultivate a trusting partnership with you.
My therapeutic stance is rooted in existential-humanistic philosophy, attachment, and developmental theory.
Navigating life’s inherent difficulties can be challenging. Sometimes therapy can help. From confronting issues such as loss/grief, anxiety, depression, and interpersonal problems, to facing significant life decisions or struggling with marital/relationship concerns, many factors can prevent any of us from engaging in our lives more fully. Whether you are new to therapy or you're returning to work through a new or lingering issue, creating a safe place to explore, understand, and respond to your concerns is crucial. Utilizing warmth and transparency, I hope to cultivate a trusting partnership with you.
(615) 247-6923 View (615) 247-6923
Photo of Zach Bryant, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Zach Bryant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
In a nutshell, my work is influenced by psychodynamic and existential theories and draws upon modern analytic, cognitive behavioral and Ericksonian strategies.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Choosing the right therapist is undoubtably an important decision. In fact, research has demonstrated that which therapist you work with matters far more than the techniques or approach he or she employs. I work with adults of all ages and am especially drawn to helping people who are open-minded, motivated and eager to learn. I have a passion for helping people improve their relationships (both with themselves and others), and I also love working with people in therapy groups.
In a nutshell, my work is influenced by psychodynamic and existential theories and draws upon modern analytic, cognitive behavioral and Ericksonian strategies.
Thank you for your interest in my practice. Choosing the right therapist is undoubtably an important decision. In fact, research has demonstrated that which therapist you work with matters far more than the techniques or approach he or she employs. I work with adults of all ages and am especially drawn to helping people who are open-minded, motivated and eager to learn. I have a passion for helping people improve their relationships (both with themselves and others), and I also love working with people in therapy groups.
(615) 249-7471 View (615) 249-7471
Photo of Sarah E. Bollinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Sarah E. Bollinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209  (Online Only)
My hope is that our work together can reignite those things that bring you the most joy and life. Often this process involves working through the impact of loss, pain, or trauma in a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. I work extensively with women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and much of my experience centers around religious trauma and spiritual wounding. My work is informed by humanistic and existential perspectives of psychotherapy, and I often incorporate the use of mindfulness techniques. I am also trained in a number of evidence-based clinical treatments including IFS, ACT, and EMDR.
My hope is that our work together can reignite those things that bring you the most joy and life. Often this process involves working through the impact of loss, pain, or trauma in a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. I work extensively with women and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and much of my experience centers around religious trauma and spiritual wounding. My work is informed by humanistic and existential perspectives of psychotherapy, and I often incorporate the use of mindfulness techniques. I am also trained in a number of evidence-based clinical treatments including IFS, ACT, and EMDR.
(615) 815-1568 View (615) 815-1568
Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.