Using Logotherapy as a Counselling Model in Helping the Existentially Emotionally Depressed Christian

Abstract

Logotherapy is a term derived from logos, a Greek word that translates to ‘meaning.’ It is a therapy defined as treatment of a disorder, illness, or maladjustment. It was developed by Viktor Frankl and was founded on the belief that human nature is motivated by the search for a life purpose, the pursuit of that meaning for one’s life. As a therapy of meaning it is very akin to religion. Frankl, the founder of logotherapy, was actually raised in a Jewish family and used his faith to cope with many hardships during life. His therapeutic technique led people to discover their meaning, the higher purpose in their lives. It focuses on the meaning of human existence as well as on man’s search for such a meaning. Logotherapy is very suitable for pastoral care and counselling, for its method is similar to the belief in God or a higher power; it facilitates changes through deep spiritual, emotional and physical awareness. It is a therapeutic method that allows for the deepening of faith and beliefs that ultimately results in a strong commitment to God at the same time promotes sound ethical moral community society. This paper does not intend to make logotherapy a panacea for all psychic problems but a suggestible counselling model for use by pastors and Christian educators: for helping the existentially frustrated and emotionally depressed, since all problems are logotherapeutically created. There is no doubt that most members are bedeviled with emotional depression which has effect on their commitments to God through the church. The calling of the Master, Jesus Christ, is for the pastor to equip the saints; so they may be about the ministry in the world.