Existential Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Bailey Sims, LMHCA, RYT, MACMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bailey Sims
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, RYT, MACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46208
My practice is an eclectic and integrative mix of psychodynamic, humanistic, existential and cognitive behavioral theories.
I am a psychodynamically trained therapist specializing in body (somatic), nature (eco-therapy), and mindfulness-based approaches to psychotherapy. I work with folks who want a fresh perspective, holistic support, and empowerment for their mental health journey. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, adjustments and transitions, anger, self-esteem, body image concerns and disordered eating, religious trauma, spiritual concerns, and neurodivergent living, I am along for the ride. I strive to embody both cultural humility and multiculturalism, creating a safe space that supports BIPOC, LGBTQIA+.
My practice is an eclectic and integrative mix of psychodynamic, humanistic, existential and cognitive behavioral theories.
I am a psychodynamically trained therapist specializing in body (somatic), nature (eco-therapy), and mindfulness-based approaches to psychotherapy. I work with folks who want a fresh perspective, holistic support, and empowerment for their mental health journey. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, adjustments and transitions, anger, self-esteem, body image concerns and disordered eating, religious trauma, spiritual concerns, and neurodivergent living, I am along for the ride. I strive to embody both cultural humility and multiculturalism, creating a safe space that supports BIPOC, LGBTQIA+.
(317) 981-3904 x5041 View (317) 981-3904 x5041
Photo of Jil Hus, PhD, LMHC, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Jil Hus
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LCPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I primarily utilize a Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), approach but include a mix of both Existential and Mindfulness based techniques.
I embody a passion for helping others achieve their ideal self in all facets of the lifespan. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, as well as families and couples. My areas of expertise include; mood disorders, crisis and trauma, phase of life concerns, parenting/co-parenting, gender, identity, and sexual orientation concerns, as well as career-related challenges.
I primarily utilize a Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), approach but include a mix of both Existential and Mindfulness based techniques.
I embody a passion for helping others achieve their ideal self in all facets of the lifespan. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, as well as families and couples. My areas of expertise include; mood disorders, crisis and trauma, phase of life concerns, parenting/co-parenting, gender, identity, and sexual orientation concerns, as well as career-related challenges.
(219) 758-7759 View (219) 758-7759
Photo of Stephanie Mowery, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Mowery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
My therapeutic style draws upon several approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and existential therapy.
My passion is helping people confront and move beyond stressful life events and self-sabotaging behaviors to achieve peace of mind and personal wellness. I specialize in working with people with disordered eating and those who want to improve their relationship with food and their body. I also work with individuals navigating anxiety, codependency, depression, relationship issues, addictions, low self-worth, and life transitions.
My therapeutic style draws upon several approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and existential therapy.
My passion is helping people confront and move beyond stressful life events and self-sabotaging behaviors to achieve peace of mind and personal wellness. I specialize in working with people with disordered eating and those who want to improve their relationship with food and their body. I also work with individuals navigating anxiety, codependency, depression, relationship issues, addictions, low self-worth, and life transitions.
(317) 218-9535 View (317) 218-9535
Photo of Dylan Stanton, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Dylan Stanton
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
I work with clients who are dealing with anger, depression, anxiety, grief, existential quandaries and identity issues (gender, sexual, etc).
I work with clients who are ready for change and are eager to honestly examine their lives-- clients who are ready to explore issues which have generated disappointments, resentments, loneliness, pain, anger, or heartache. Life is hard, and at times we all need someone who will see us, hear us, and help us explore who we are and why we do the things we do. My approach is primarily psychodynamic and it is highly influenced by object relations and attachment theory. I believe our work is a collaborative effort. I provide a compassionate, engaging and respectful environment for clients.
I work with clients who are dealing with anger, depression, anxiety, grief, existential quandaries and identity issues (gender, sexual, etc).
I work with clients who are ready for change and are eager to honestly examine their lives-- clients who are ready to explore issues which have generated disappointments, resentments, loneliness, pain, anger, or heartache. Life is hard, and at times we all need someone who will see us, hear us, and help us explore who we are and why we do the things we do. My approach is primarily psychodynamic and it is highly influenced by object relations and attachment theory. I believe our work is a collaborative effort. I provide a compassionate, engaging and respectful environment for clients.
(317) 204-4579 View (317) 204-4579
Photo of Stephanie Burkus, MSW, LCSW, CSTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Burkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSTS
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250  (Online Only)
I am competent in therapies such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, supportive therapy and existential therapy.
You need a safe space to truly express yourself and work through tough emotions. Things like trauma and anxiety disrupt the nervous system, and it takes a special skill set to find your center in times of stress. I am a therapist that helps people tackle feelings of shame that often stem from dysfunctional family dynamics. If you're struggling with setting boundaries, finding balance, or navigating your mental health in general, I am here to help you work through it.
I am competent in therapies such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, supportive therapy and existential therapy.
You need a safe space to truly express yourself and work through tough emotions. Things like trauma and anxiety disrupt the nervous system, and it takes a special skill set to find your center in times of stress. I am a therapist that helps people tackle feelings of shame that often stem from dysfunctional family dynamics. If you're struggling with setting boundaries, finding balance, or navigating your mental health in general, I am here to help you work through it.
(574) 334-7648 View (574) 334-7648
Photo of Iris Mosah, LMHC, Counselor
Iris Mosah
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46204  (Online Only)
I offer an eclectic range of modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, existential therapy, Christian perspective, positive pschology, and more.
Hi there! Are you looking for a therapist who will simultaneously be your cheerleader and challenger? Who will empower you to step into the best version of yourself and take charge of your mental health and life? Look no further. My name is Iris and I am a Masters-level clinician who is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology.
I offer an eclectic range of modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, existential therapy, Christian perspective, positive pschology, and more.
Hi there! Are you looking for a therapist who will simultaneously be your cheerleader and challenger? Who will empower you to step into the best version of yourself and take charge of your mental health and life? Look no further. My name is Iris and I am a Masters-level clinician who is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in Counseling Psychology.
(317) 458-2644 View (317) 458-2644
Photo of Adam Antone, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Adam Antone
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46227
I'm a clinician seeking to sit alongside you and process whatever is most pressing in your life utilizing the insights of Cognitive Behavioral, Behavioral, and Existential Therapies.
There are moments when life can feel overwhelming - tension in a close relationship, anxiety about "being good enough," or the challenge of maintaining motivation to get done what needs to get done. These experiences might leave you feeling frustrated, fearful, or confused. The problem is that life can be so busy that it's difficult to find time to process all these factors let alone address them. Here we find the beauty of counseling, it offers much needed things: time and space. Time where you can put down your walls and express what's really on your mind in a space where you know you will be heard.
I'm a clinician seeking to sit alongside you and process whatever is most pressing in your life utilizing the insights of Cognitive Behavioral, Behavioral, and Existential Therapies.
There are moments when life can feel overwhelming - tension in a close relationship, anxiety about "being good enough," or the challenge of maintaining motivation to get done what needs to get done. These experiences might leave you feeling frustrated, fearful, or confused. The problem is that life can be so busy that it's difficult to find time to process all these factors let alone address them. Here we find the beauty of counseling, it offers much needed things: time and space. Time where you can put down your walls and express what's really on your mind in a space where you know you will be heard.
(317) 780-1610 x106 View (317) 780-1610 x106
Photo of Jacey Hammel Phd, PhD, Psychologist
Jacey Hammel Phd
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46278  (Online Only)
With 15 years experience in private practice and academia, I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, mindfulness, existential, and interpersonal, and polyvagal-informed therapies.
Life changes and trauma can lead to disconnection from ourselves and others. This disconnection can manifest as anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Through therapy, we can untangle the changes and trauma so we can truly hear ourselves. Our work might include emotional processing and regulation, self-compassion, self-acceptance, and mind-body awareness. At each step, I will check in with you and guide the pacing to fit your needs and goals. (See my website for more information.) Authorized to practice in all PsyPact states via telepsychology.
With 15 years experience in private practice and academia, I draw from cognitive behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, mindfulness, existential, and interpersonal, and polyvagal-informed therapies.
Life changes and trauma can lead to disconnection from ourselves and others. This disconnection can manifest as anxiety, depression, and loneliness. Through therapy, we can untangle the changes and trauma so we can truly hear ourselves. Our work might include emotional processing and regulation, self-compassion, self-acceptance, and mind-body awareness. At each step, I will check in with you and guide the pacing to fit your needs and goals. (See my website for more information.) Authorized to practice in all PsyPact states via telepsychology.
(812) 613-4227 View (812) 613-4227
Photo of Aaron E Merkel, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Aaron E Merkel
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46256
I primarily operate from an existential approach, but I frequently incorporate cognitive-behavioral interventions as well.
There may come a time when you find yourself at your wit’s end, unable to find a solution for the troubles life has thrown your way. After all, we should be able to solve our own problems, right? For many of us, the decision to call a therapist is the last thing on our list as it can feel like admitting weakness, but it takes courage to make that call.
I primarily operate from an existential approach, but I frequently incorporate cognitive-behavioral interventions as well.
There may come a time when you find yourself at your wit’s end, unable to find a solution for the troubles life has thrown your way. After all, we should be able to solve our own problems, right? For many of us, the decision to call a therapist is the last thing on our list as it can feel like admitting weakness, but it takes courage to make that call.
(317) 489-1677 View (317) 489-1677
Photo of Wendy N. Arnold, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy N. Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46205
Feeling the weight of the past holding you back? Looking for new and more helpful ways to heal and move forward? Wanting to lean into the healthiest version of yourself? Though it is not talked about enough, these types of challenges are not uncommon in this human experience and we all struggle, at points in our lives, with how we react and respond to different situations because of our experiences we've had that affect our thoughts, feelings and emotions. I believe that you are capable of breaking away from what no longer serves you and finding your way towards a more intentional and fulfilling life.
Feeling the weight of the past holding you back? Looking for new and more helpful ways to heal and move forward? Wanting to lean into the healthiest version of yourself? Though it is not talked about enough, these types of challenges are not uncommon in this human experience and we all struggle, at points in our lives, with how we react and respond to different situations because of our experiences we've had that affect our thoughts, feelings and emotions. I believe that you are capable of breaking away from what no longer serves you and finding your way towards a more intentional and fulfilling life.
(317) 526-5012 View (317) 526-5012
Photo of Cassidy Padal, MS, LMHCA, NCC, Psychological Associate
Cassidy Padal
Psychological Associate, MS, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46235
I want you to emerge from our sessions with a renewed sense of self, equipped with the skills to navigate life's complexities with confidence and resilience. Life sucks, is unfair, and therapy won't magically change that, but I'm here to hear your journey on this crazy rollercoaster and maybe ride it a while with you. I want the traumatized, the pained, the broken, and those that don't think they fall into the aforementioned categories. Life is a game, but there are some ways to win.
I want you to emerge from our sessions with a renewed sense of self, equipped with the skills to navigate life's complexities with confidence and resilience. Life sucks, is unfair, and therapy won't magically change that, but I'm here to hear your journey on this crazy rollercoaster and maybe ride it a while with you. I want the traumatized, the pained, the broken, and those that don't think they fall into the aforementioned categories. Life is a game, but there are some ways to win.
(463) 219-1324 View (463) 219-1324
Photo of Kathy G Slaughter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy G Slaughter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Feeling disconnected from yourself or those closest to you? Not sure why? Are you ready to get more out of life, sex, and relationships? I’m here to help you do just that. Let’s unpack what’s not working for you, while also identifying and building on your strengths. Together, we’ll guide you towards new ways of thinking, feeling, and acting that align with your true self. I specialize in helping thoughtful, self-aware individuals like you discover your path to pleasure, agency, and love, leading to sincere and fulfilling connections.
Feeling disconnected from yourself or those closest to you? Not sure why? Are you ready to get more out of life, sex, and relationships? I’m here to help you do just that. Let’s unpack what’s not working for you, while also identifying and building on your strengths. Together, we’ll guide you towards new ways of thinking, feeling, and acting that align with your true self. I specialize in helping thoughtful, self-aware individuals like you discover your path to pleasure, agency, and love, leading to sincere and fulfilling connections.
(463) 232-6583 View (463) 232-6583
Photo of Craig Hennecke, MS, NCC, LMHCA, Counselor
Craig Hennecke
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46290
I treasure a core belief that human beings are inherently compassionate, wise, and whole. Then life happens and we begin to lose access to our inner resourcefulness. Connection, authenticity, and empathy form the foundation of my work. I feel that change and healing occur both experientially and relationally. By utilizing compassion, curiosity, honesty, and humor, I connect and collaborate with clients to build a supportive and non-judgmental container for self-exploration and growth.
I treasure a core belief that human beings are inherently compassionate, wise, and whole. Then life happens and we begin to lose access to our inner resourcefulness. Connection, authenticity, and empathy form the foundation of my work. I feel that change and healing occur both experientially and relationally. By utilizing compassion, curiosity, honesty, and humor, I connect and collaborate with clients to build a supportive and non-judgmental container for self-exploration and growth.
(317) 934-6755 View (317) 934-6755
Photo of Eric A Schwan, LMHCA-T, Counselor
Eric A Schwan
Counselor, LMHCA-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Our thoughts, fears, anxieties, and unfulfilled expectations can be obstacles to living the life we want to have and experience authentically. The therapeutic process supports and assists us in identifying, and better understanding all parts of our authentic selves. I listen and hold space for your individual situation. To hear how you’re feeling and understand the challenges that are impacting you daily. My intention is that we work together to provide a safe and supportive atmosphere where you can explore issues that may be difficult to talk about at sufficient length elsewhere while reaching healthy outcomes.
Our thoughts, fears, anxieties, and unfulfilled expectations can be obstacles to living the life we want to have and experience authentically. The therapeutic process supports and assists us in identifying, and better understanding all parts of our authentic selves. I listen and hold space for your individual situation. To hear how you’re feeling and understand the challenges that are impacting you daily. My intention is that we work together to provide a safe and supportive atmosphere where you can explore issues that may be difficult to talk about at sufficient length elsewhere while reaching healthy outcomes.
(317) 912-0062 View (317) 912-0062
Photo of undefined - Motive Wellness, LLC, LMHC, LCAC, NCC, Counselor
Motive Wellness, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, LCAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46236  (Online Only)
Let's ignite your motive to unlock your potential! Catchy slogan huh? Okay but seriously, do you ever say “this is just me” or “this is just how I act”? Fun fact, there is a “motive” behind every action and behavior that you do. Our motives are a reflection of what we’ve been through, what we are going through, or sometimes what we fear for our future. All reasons to seek therapy to better understand yourself. Your first assignment is to sit in silence and ask yourself two questions: Why do I think I act/behave the way that I do? Am I ready to unlock the potential reasons why? Hint- reflect on your childhood.
Let's ignite your motive to unlock your potential! Catchy slogan huh? Okay but seriously, do you ever say “this is just me” or “this is just how I act”? Fun fact, there is a “motive” behind every action and behavior that you do. Our motives are a reflection of what we’ve been through, what we are going through, or sometimes what we fear for our future. All reasons to seek therapy to better understand yourself. Your first assignment is to sit in silence and ask yourself two questions: Why do I think I act/behave the way that I do? Am I ready to unlock the potential reasons why? Hint- reflect on your childhood.
(317) 489-6316 View (317) 489-6316
Photo of Adam Alvey, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Adam Alvey
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Relationships are a tough, but necessary part of our existence; be it with your partner, family, friends, or even co-workers. By focusing on the ‘here and now’ you can strengthen those present relationships. It’s not that the past and future are irrelevant. The past is what has put you in the present and the present is what shapes your future. I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to focus on what has put you into the 'here and now' and how you can better the tomorrow.
Relationships are a tough, but necessary part of our existence; be it with your partner, family, friends, or even co-workers. By focusing on the ‘here and now’ you can strengthen those present relationships. It’s not that the past and future are irrelevant. The past is what has put you in the present and the present is what shapes your future. I offer a safe and supportive environment for you to focus on what has put you into the 'here and now' and how you can better the tomorrow.
(317) 349-5928 View (317) 349-5928
Photo of Kelly Burk, LMHCA, MDiv
Kelly Burk
LMHCA, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46208
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been experiencing emotions intensely or noticing the absence of emotion? Are there aspects of your life and relationships you’d like to improve? Perhaps you want to understand yourself better, recover from traumatic experiences, or learn coping skills to navigate these challenging times. Maybe you aren’t sure what is holding you back and you want to talk to someone who can help.
Have you been experiencing emotions intensely or noticing the absence of emotion? Are there aspects of your life and relationships you’d like to improve? Perhaps you want to understand yourself better, recover from traumatic experiences, or learn coping skills to navigate these challenging times. Maybe you aren’t sure what is holding you back and you want to talk to someone who can help.
(317) 967-9081 x5028 View (317) 967-9081 x5028
Photo of Elizabeth (Beth) J Askren, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Elizabeth (Beth) J Askren
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I help people who are suffering, lost in emotional distress & pain. Clients work with me to heal from emotional, sexual, & physical trauma, as well as the impact of growing up in a dysfunctional family of origin. I guide & support clients on a journey of insight, as they face emotional pain that refuses to be ignored. I see clients come out the other side with greater self-worth, grounded by confidence & security in themselves, discovering new perspectives & paths, while creating a fulfilling life in which they can thrive. Good therapy starts with genuine compassion and acceptance. These are the core values of my practice & my life.
I help people who are suffering, lost in emotional distress & pain. Clients work with me to heal from emotional, sexual, & physical trauma, as well as the impact of growing up in a dysfunctional family of origin. I guide & support clients on a journey of insight, as they face emotional pain that refuses to be ignored. I see clients come out the other side with greater self-worth, grounded by confidence & security in themselves, discovering new perspectives & paths, while creating a fulfilling life in which they can thrive. Good therapy starts with genuine compassion and acceptance. These are the core values of my practice & my life.
(317) 649-8804 View (317) 649-8804
David C Frauman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I work with all types of patients, including those who have never been in therapy. Therapy can seem intimidating, but I will work to see that you feel comfortable and safe. It's important to feel trust in your therapist, so I welcome your feedback as to how I can better help you.
I work with all types of patients, including those who have never been in therapy. Therapy can seem intimidating, but I will work to see that you feel comfortable and safe. It's important to feel trust in your therapist, so I welcome your feedback as to how I can better help you.
(317) 412-9139 View (317) 412-9139
Photo of Kelsee Keitel, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Kelsee Keitel
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46225
Driven by curiosity, genuine connection, and creativity... I don't believe it's a therapist's job to "fix" folks. My passion is to EQUIP folks to live their best lives and continue their growth outside of the therapy setting. I specialize in serving high-achievers with internal insecurity and anxiety. Maybe you've devoured self-help books and therapytok, but haven't found the deeper healing you seek yet. I love championing individuals who are invested and ready to take their growth to a deeper level. I take pride in consistently being told that I offer a better therapy experience.
Driven by curiosity, genuine connection, and creativity... I don't believe it's a therapist's job to "fix" folks. My passion is to EQUIP folks to live their best lives and continue their growth outside of the therapy setting. I specialize in serving high-achievers with internal insecurity and anxiety. Maybe you've devoured self-help books and therapytok, but haven't found the deeper healing you seek yet. I love championing individuals who are invested and ready to take their growth to a deeper level. I take pride in consistently being told that I offer a better therapy experience.
(317) 279-6488 View (317) 279-6488

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

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.