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Zachary Marciano, Psy.D., is a 2026 graduate of the Psy.D. Program in Clinical Psychology at Antioch University, New England

Dissertation Committee:

  • Monique Bowen, PhD, Chairperson
  • Lorraine Mangione, PhD, Committee
  • Jason Frederick, PsyD, Committee

Photo of Dr. Zachary Marciano
Dr. Marciano

Keywords

psychotherapy, nihilism, meaninglessness, alternative music subculture, qualitative, interpretive phenomenological analysis, music, generations, clinicians, clinical implications, meaning-making, punk, metal, extreme music, thematic analysis, theme interpretation, rebellion, semi-structured interviews, narrative interviews, existentialism, alternative culture, fandom, transformative paradigm, stigma, cultural identities, therapeutic process, therapy, fan studies, emotion regulation

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Date

2026

Abstract

This dissertation examines the profound existential paradox faced by individuals who have identified with nihilistic beliefs and ideas while attempting to seek meaning through therapy. Nihilism, characterized by the belief in the inherent meaninglessness of existence, poses a significant challenge to the traditional therapeutic framework, which often centers on the pursuit of meaning and purpose. This dichotomy poses a unique conundrum for individuals who embrace nihilistic perspectives shaped by identification with nihilistic lyrics and themes in alternative music genres such as metal, goth, grunge, and punk. Alternative music culture often serves as a vehicle for expressing and internalizing nihilistic beliefs, often challenging conventional notions of meaning-making. The existential and humanistic framework of this study enables exploration of the complexities of reconciling nihilistic beliefs with the inherent human desire for meaning and significance. Through a qualitative analysis of therapeutic narratives, cultural discourses, and overarching themes, this paper examines the strategies and processes employed by patients and therapists to navigate this existential tension within the therapeutic context. These themes are derived from a series of narrative, semi-structured interviews with patients of different generations, attachments, and cultural identities. Additionally, the therapist’s role as a compassionate witness and facilitator of meaning-making processes is explored, highlighting the importance of creating a safe and validating therapeutic space for clients to explore their existential concerns. This paper acknowledges the importance of destigmatizing and validating the existential struggles inherent in alternative music culture, while also analyzing nihilistic themes as a basis for how therapy can enliven existential growth. By integrating alternative cultural narratives into the therapeutic process, clinicians can provide more inclusive and culturally responsive approaches to meaning-making that honor their clients’ diverse existential experiences. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).

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ORCID iD: 0000-0003-0858-5202

Bio:

Zachary Marciano is a scientist-practitioner who works to embody the junction between behaviorism and existentialism. He conceptualizes the therapeutic process as an artistic and fluid yet calculated rebellion against the societal culture of apathy. He believes that psychotherapy is a collaborative cultivation of reflections as an ongoing installation of the person's culture and identity that extends beyond the therapeutic relationship. He views humanity's collective and individual struggles as more than stories; as they encompass the crux of our being.

He earned his Master's of Science in Neuroscience & Behavior from the University of Massachusetts in 2019, after spending three years researching behavior and cognitive functioning in marmoset monkeys. While pursuing his Doctorate of Clinical Psychology at Antioch University New England, he worked as a health scientist for the Department of Veterans Affairs, conducting research for one of the largest Genome-Wide Association Studies in the world, the Million Veteran Program (MVP). Clinically, he has worked with diverse populations in dynamic environments as part of his practicum training, which included community mental health and college counseling. 

He earned his doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University New England and completed his APA-accredited internship at the Bureau of Prisons: Federal Correctional Institution: Tallahassee, where he trained in a correctional environment with a forensic population. His professional interests include health psychology, culturally responsive care, existential psychotherapy, identity development, and increasing scientific literacy within our community at large.

In his personal life, you are likely to find him spending time with loved ones, relaxing in nature, cooking some stir-fry, lounging with his cats, and attending a local metal or punk show. All while dressed in his uniquely eclectic and often avant-garde attire.

Previous Scholarship:

Marciano, Z., Deater-Deckard, K. D., Lacreuse, A., Novak, M., University of Massachusetts Amherst, & University of Massachusetts Amherst Libraries. (2019). Relationships between personality type and cognitive ability in marmoset monkeys (Callithrix jacchus). [Dissertation, University of Massachusetts Libraries]. https://scholarworks.umass.edu/masters_theses_2/845 

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