Irvin D. Yalom is an American existential psychiatrist and author. His books explore existential themes, such as death, meaninglessness, and isolation, and have been translated into over 20 languages. He is also known for his contributions to group therapy and his writings on the therapeutic relationship.
Born on June 13, 1931, in Washington, D.C.
Graduated from George Washington University School of Medicine in 1956
Completed his residency in psychiatry at Stanford University in 1960
Began teaching at Stanford in 1963, where he remained until his retirement in 1994
Published his first book, The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy, in 1970
Austrian neurologist, psychiatrist, and Holocaust survivor who founded logotherapy, a form of existential analysis
American existential psychologist and author who helped to create the humanistic and existential psychology movements
Yalom's own works, which delve deeper into existential themes, often incorporating fictional elements and using case studies from his own practice
A collection of ten stories of psychotherapy sessions with patients, exploring themes such as loneliness and meaninglessness
A historical novel that depicts a fictional meeting between Friedrich Nietzsche and Josef Breuer, exploring themes of love, loss, and existentialism
A guidebook for therapists written in a conversational style, offering practical tips and reflections on the therapeutic relationship
Existential psychotherapy is a form of therapy that emphasizes the individual's search for meaning and purpose in life, and the exploration of themes such as death, freedom, and responsibility.
Yalom believes that death anxiety is a universal human concern, and that the awareness of our own mortality can motivate us to live more fully and authentically.
Yalom has worked with a wide range of patients throughout his career, including those struggling with anxiety, depression, and relationship issues, as well as those seeking to explore existential themes and issues of meaning and purpose.
Yalom is known for his warm and engaging therapeutic style, which emphasizes the importance of the therapeutic relationship and focuses on the individual's experience in the present moment. He often incorporates storytelling, humor, and reflective exercises into his sessions.
Yalom's book, The Theory and Practice of Group Psychotherapy, is widely considered a seminal text in the field, and he has made significant contributions to the development of group therapy models such as the interpersonal learning, existential, and time-limited groups.