Humanistic Therapy

Humanistic therapy is a relational and values-oriented approach to counselling and psychotherapy that emphasizes self-awareness, authenticity, and the capacity for growth. Rather than focusing primarily on symptoms or diagnoses, this approach invites exploration of lived experience, personal meaning, and how we relate to ourselves and others.

At its core, humanistic therapy is grounded in the belief that people have an innate capacity to move toward wholeness and fulfillment when met with understanding, care, and respect.

How Humanistic Therapy Informs My Work

My work is shaped by humanistic principles drawn from existential, Gestalt, and person-centered traditions. These approaches share a focus on presence, responsibility, and the here-and-now experience of being human.

Rather than applying techniques in a formulaic way, I work relationally and collaboratively, staying close to what is emerging in the moment. Therapy becomes a space to explore thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, and relational patterns as they are happening, with curiosity and care.

Humanistic therapy in practice often involves:

Developing greater awareness of inner experience
Exploring values, meaning, and personal responsibility
Noticing how past experiences shape present ways of relating
Strengthening the capacity to live more authentically and intentionally
Focusing on the relationship between our internal and external environments

Existential Foundations

Existential themes naturally arise in this work. Questions of meaning, freedom, responsibility, uncertainty, and connection are often present beneath the surface of everyday concerns.

Rather than offering answers, therapy provides space to sit with these questions thoughtfully, allowing you to clarify what matters most and how you want to live in relationship with yourself and others. Anxiety, uncertainty, and doubt are understood not as problems to eliminate, but as meaningful aspects of being human that can be approached with curiosity and compassion.

A Relational and Experiential Process

Humanistic therapy is deeply relational. The quality of the therapeutic relationship itself is understood as central to growth and change. I aim to offer a space characterized by presence, empathy, honesty, and respect, where exploration can unfold at a pace that feels grounded and supportive.

Drawing from Gestalt and person-centered traditions, sessions may involve:

Attending to present-moment experience
Exploring emotions and bodily sensations
Reflecting on relational dynamics as they arise
Supporting self-acceptance and agency

The work is collaborative and client-led, shaped by what feels most meaningful and alive for you.

Who This Approach May Be Helpful For

Humanistic therapy may be a good fit if you are:

Seeking greater self-understanding or personal growth
Navigating life transitions or periods of uncertainty
Exploring questions of meaning, identity, or purpose
Wanting to relate to yourself and others more authentically
Interested in a reflective, relational, and non-pathologizing approach

This work often resonates with people who value depth, presence, and thoughtful exploration rather than quick solutions or symptom-focused interventions.

How This Fits Within My Practice

Humanistic therapy forms a foundational orientation in my work alongside Internal Family Systems and somatic approaches. These perspectives complement one another, supporting both inner awareness and relational connection.

You can learn more about how these approaches come together in my work here:

→ Counselling & Psychotherapy

If you are curious about how therapy may unfold over time, you may also find it helpful to explore examples drawn from clinical experience:

→ What Therapy Can Look Like

Next Steps

If this approach resonates with you, the next step is to book a complimentary discovery call. This offers an opportunity to ask questions, share what brings you here, and explore whether working together feels like a good fit.

INFO

Simon Erlich Counselling & Psychotherapy
✆ 343-321-1795
✉︎ simon@simonerlich.com