existential analysis
a type of psychoanalysis, or a phase in existential psychotherapy, that places an emphasis on conscious perception and experience over unconscious motivation and drive in the search for meaning. The therapist typically takes an active, often confrontational, role by posing difficult questions and noting maladaptive decision making. The approach to “being” is future- or growth-oriented, and the goal is to develop and encourage highly conscious decision making on the part of the client. Also called existential psychoanalysis.