A Year of the Pandemic: Existential themes for psychotherapists

Abstract

My ideas for this paper arose during work with colleagues at the Metanoia Institute to assist in updating the research study ‘The challenges and experiences of psychotherapists working remotely during the coronavirus pandemic’ (McBeath, du Plock & Bager-Charleson, 2020). As a result of our collaboration, I identified a number of existential themes, which I felt inspired to develop. These themes indicate that as the spring tide of pandemic restrictions starts to ebb, it may leave existential challenges on its shore. This paper explores a range of emerging existential themes for consideration, and points the way to further research, specifically to consider how existential therapists have engaged with clinical practice during lockdown and identify recommendations for future practice.