Rollo May, a pioneering figure in existential psychotherapy, was significantly influenced by the philosophy of Heraclitus. Heraclitus, known for his concepts of change and the unity of opposites, contributed foundational ideas that reverberated through existential thought, impacting May’s approach to psychotherapy.

Core Concepts from Heraclitus:

1. Doctrine of Change: Heraclitus famously stated, "No man ever steps in the same river twice," emphasizing the constant flux of life.
2. Unity of Opposites: He posited that opposites are interconnected and that conflict and harmony are part of the same process.

Influence on Rollo May:

1. Acceptance of Change: May's existential psychotherapy heavily emphasizes embracing the inherent uncertainty and change in life. This mirrors Heraclitus's belief in the constant state of flux.
2. Existence of Paradoxes: May’s work often deals with the paradoxes and conflicts inherent in human existence, such as love and hate, life and death. This aligns with Heraclitus's idea of unity in opposites, suggesting that these dualities are essential for a holistic understanding of human experience.

Specific Impacts on Psychotherapy:

• Emphasis on Individual Experience: In line with Heraclitus, May focused on the individual’s subjective experience and the intrinsic changes within one's being.
• Creativity and Becoming: May believed in the potential for continuous growth and becoming, reflecting Heraclitus’s views on the transformative nature of existence.

For a deeper exploration into the interplay between Heraclitean philosophy and Rollo May’s existential psychotherapy, consider the following sources:

1. Rollo May’s Influence on Existential Theory: BetterHelp - Rollo May

2. Rollo May and the Search for Being: SAGE Journals - Rollo May's Thought

3. Heraclitus: Wikipedia - Heraclitus

4. Existential Psychology: ResearchGate - Existential Psychotherapy