Presentation of the Sources of Meaning Card Method. The SoMeCaM

Existential themes and meaning in life are often embedded in all types of psychotherapy, but can be difficult to handle in a systematic way. This article presents a method of assessing and exploring sources of personal meaning with a client during a 1-hour session. The method is rooted in existential theory as well in contemporary empirical psychology on sources of meaning. The Sources of Meaning Card Method comprises three stages. (a) From a total of 26 cards with printed statements concerning possible sources of meaning, the clients are asked to select 3 to 5 cards of most important personal content. (b) With each of these cards, a semistructured conversation is initiated with regard to the statement’s meaning, personal significance, actual importance, threats, and possibilities for personal change. (c) The therapist summarizes the client’s priorities, decisions, and essential parts of the conversation at the end of the session. The method is presented in four language versions.