Existentialism with Zhimian 

Zhimian therapy is an indigenous humanistic-existential therapy originally developed by Chinese psychologist Dr. Xuefu Wang based on the legacy of modern Chinese writer Lu Xun. Believing in the transformative power of literature, Zhimian therapy places the metaphoric language (metaphors, idioms, fables) at the center of its healing process. The present study seeks to clarify Zhimian’s use of metaphors comparing to other therapies that also utilize metaphors. Two examples will be presented to illustrate Zhimian’s approach to metaphors.

There have been a growing number of publications on Zhi Mian therapy in recent years (e.g. Hoffman, 2009; Wang, 2011; Wang, 2016). Although the meaning of Zhi Mian and its implication has been attracting considerable interests, its definition and relationship with Western theories remain unclear.  The aim of this study is to define Zhi Mian therapy by discussing the key features that distinguish it from Western Existential therapies.

In developing his indigenous model of Zhi Mian psychology, Xuefu stood on the shoulders of giants who had gone before him; although there is little doubt that he is a giant himself in his understanding of the Chinese psyche. In that way, Xuefu had attempted to traverse the slippery path of finding a way to introducing psychology and therapy to his people by following in the steps of those who had gone before him. He found clues from those who had faced the“givens” of existence long before we ourselves existed to face these givens ourselves.