The Journey Is the Goal

Abstract

A founder and exemplar of Existential-Humanistic Psychotherapy, James Bugental left a rich legacy in his many publications. But more importantly, it was his unwavering dedication to the search for authenticity that attests to the fertile depth of his life. Drawing upon his personal presence, his final words, and his pith instructions in teaching the art of psychotherapy, this article honors the heart of his work. Above all, he emphasized the practice of presence: daring to be open and responsive to an Other, and the willingness to trust in the mystery of being. While much therapy seeks answers or insights, for Jim, the discovery of vital meaning was less important than the experiential process of searching for it. As he said, “life is not a problem to be solved but a mystery to be lived.” How to more fully live the mystery of our lives is his remarkable legacy.