Existential Coach Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern world, the role of an existential coach has never been more vital.
As society grapples with the complex questions of purpose, meaning and existence, the need for skilled professionals who can guide, enlighten, and support individuals on their existential journey grows ever stronger.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from an existential coach?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to comprehend the essence of this role,
- A hiring manager crafting the perfect candidate profile,
- Or simply curious about the dynamics of existential coaching,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we introduce a customizable existential coach job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive right in.
Existential Coach Duties and Responsibilities
Existential Coaches focus on helping individuals navigate existential questions and crises, and develop self-awareness and self-understanding.
Their work is centered on concepts such as free will, self-determination, the search for meaning, and facing the reality of one’s own mortality.
An Existential Coach’s duties and responsibilities include:
- Assisting clients in exploring their life values and beliefs
- Helping clients understand and confront existential challenges and dilemmas
- Providing a safe and non-judgemental space for clients to discuss personal and existential issues
- Guiding clients through processes of self-discovery and personal development
- Encouraging clients to take responsibility for their decisions and actions
- Helping clients develop coping mechanisms for dealing with existential anxiety and distress
- Supporting clients in identifying their strengths and potential
- Encouraging clients to find meaning and purpose in their life
- Assisting clients in setting realistic and achievable personal goals
- Continually developing professional knowledge and skills in existential coaching
Existential Coach Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are looking for a compassionate, thoughtful Existential Coach to help clients navigate through their existential questions and dilemmas.
The Existential Coach will work closely with individuals to help them find meaning, purpose, and authenticity in their lives.
They will use various coaching techniques to help clients confront their existential anxieties and find a sense of freedom in their choices.
Responsibilities
- Work with clients to understand their existential concerns and aspirations
- Help clients develop strategies to confront their existential anxieties and dilemmas
- Facilitate self-discovery and self-awareness in clients
- Guide clients in finding meaning, purpose, and authenticity in their lives
- Offer emotional support and guidance throughout the coaching process
- Maintain client confidentiality and adhere to coaching ethics
- Continually improve coaching skills and knowledge through professional development activities
- Evaluate client progress and adjust coaching strategies as necessary
Qualifications
- Proven work experience as a life coach, counselor, or similar role
- Knowledge of existential philosophy and psychology
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Understanding of coaching ethics and standards
- Ability to empathize with clients and maintain a non-judgmental stance
- Commitment to ongoing professional development and learning
- Certification from a recognized coaching institution is a plus
- Experience in crisis intervention is a plus
- Degree in Psychology, Philosophy, Counseling, or related field is a plus
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
Additional Information
- Job Title: Existential Coach
- Work Environment: Remote work with options for in-person sessions. Some travel may be required for workshops or retreats.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Coaching Services or Director of Human Development.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $85,000 maximum
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
- Employment Type: Full-time
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and coaching philosophy to [email address or application portal].
What Does an Existential Coach Do?
An Existential Coach is a specialized professional who assists individuals in navigating complex existential issues and life challenges.
They typically work in a private practice, counseling centers, or can offer services online.
Existential Coaches focus on helping their clients understand their life’s purpose, find meaning in life and deal with feelings of existential anxiety or loneliness.
This involves guiding their clients through self-reflection, exploration of personal values and beliefs, and understanding the inherent uncertainties of life.
They help their clients to confront and manage major life transitions, existential crises, or feelings of being stuck or unfulfilled.
They encourage their clients to make choices and take actions that align with their authentic self and values, enhancing their overall wellbeing.
An Existential Coach may use a variety of techniques, including active listening, open-ended questioning, and empathy, to help their clients make sense of their existence and live more fulfilling lives.
They also provide clients with tools and strategies to cope with existential challenges and empower them to make meaningful changes in their lives.
In addition to one-on-one sessions, Existential Coaches may also conduct group sessions, workshops, and seminars on existential themes and personal development.
Existential Coach Qualifications and Skills
An Existential Coach needs a diverse range of skills and qualifications to effectively guide clients through their self-discovery journeys.
They must display a deep understanding of existential philosophies and human psychology, alongside other interpersonal skills like:
- Deep comprehension of existential philosophy and principles to guide clients in finding their purpose in life and making meaningful decisions.
- Astrological and psychological knowledge to understand the unique perspectives and struggles of each client.
- Exceptional communication and active listening skills to understand clients’ thoughts, feelings, and desires, and to convey complex existential concepts in a comprehensible manner.
- Empathy and compassion to support clients during their existential journey, especially during difficult times of self-doubt or confusion.
- Problem-solving skills to help clients navigate challenging situations and make meaningful changes in their lives.
- Critical thinking skills to challenge clients’ beliefs and assumptions, encourage self-reflection, and promote personal growth.
- Patience and flexibility, as each client’s existential journey is unique and may require varied approaches or timelines.
- Conflict resolution abilities to help clients reconcile inner conflicts and make peace with difficult aspects of their existence.
- Confidentiality and ethical standards to ensure clients feel safe and secure throughout the coaching process.
Existential Coach Experience Requirements
Existential coaches often come from a background in psychology, counseling, social work, or related fields.
This is due to the nature of the role, which requires a deep understanding of human psychology and the ability to guide individuals through existential questions and challenges.
Typically, an entry-level existential coach may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships, volunteering, or part-time roles in counseling, social work, or mental health services.
They may also have completed specific courses or workshops that focus on existential philosophy and coaching techniques.
Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their counseling skills and knowledge in roles such as Therapist, Counselor, or Social Worker.
They may also have completed specialized training in existential coaching and have practical experience working with individuals on existential issues.
Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience, such as managing a team of therapists or counselors, or running their own coaching practice.
They may also have experience providing supervision or mentorship to less experienced coaches or therapists.
Furthermore, existential coaches are often required to undertake continuous professional development to keep their skills and knowledge up-to-date.
This could involve attending workshops, seminars, or conferences; undertaking further study; or engaging in research.
In addition to these professional experiences, existential coaches also need personal qualities like empathy, patience, excellent listening skills, and the ability to handle sensitive and complex issues.
Existential Coach Education and Training Requirements
Existential Coaches often have a bachelor’s degree in psychology, counseling, philosophy, or a related field.
Postgraduate study is highly recommended, often in the form of a master’s degree in psychology or counseling, with a specific focus on existential philosophy or therapy.
In addition, they typically undergo specific existential coaching training programs.
These can range from short courses to more comprehensive study programs, and cover essential topics such as existential philosophy, existential therapy techniques, and the integration of these principles in a coaching context.
Certification from an accredited coaching organization, like the International Coach Federation (ICF), is often required.
These certifications validate the individual’s competence, skills, and adherence to established coaching standards.
Aside from formal education, Existential Coaches should have a strong understanding of human psychology and behavior, excellent listening and communication skills, and a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges.
Continuing education through advanced courses, seminars, or workshops is also beneficial in this profession, as it helps to stay updated with the latest theories and practices in existential coaching.
Existential Coach Salary Expectations
An Existential Coach can expect to earn an average salary of $65,000 (USD) per year.
However, the income can vary greatly depending on the coach’s level of experience, the location where they practice, and their individual client rates.
Existential Coach Job Description FAQs
What skills does an existential coach need?
An existential coach should possess excellent listening and communication skills to understand their clients’ perspectives and help them articulate their thoughts and feelings.
They need to be empathetic, patient, and non-judgmental.
They should also possess problem-solving skills, to help their clients find their own solutions and paths forward.
Knowledge of philosophy, especially existentialism, is also beneficial.
Do existential coaches need a degree?
While a degree is not strictly necessary, many existential coaches have a background in psychology, philosophy, counseling, or social work.
There are also specific courses and certifications in existential coaching.
Regardless of their academic background, all existential coaches must have a deep understanding of existential philosophy and its application to life’s challenges and dilemmas.
What should you look for in an existential coach resume?
When reviewing an existential coach’s resume, look for experience in coaching, counseling, or related fields.
Certifications in existential coaching or a related discipline can also be an asset.
Other important elements to consider are the candidate’s communication skills, empathy, and ability to guide individuals through personal self-exploration.
What qualities make a good existential coach?
A good existential coach should be patient, empathetic, and able to listen without judgement.
They need to be comfortable discussing a wide range of topics, from the everyday to the philosophical.
They should encourage their clients to explore their beliefs, values, and life goals, and help them find ways to live in alignment with these.
They should also be adaptable and flexible, as each client will have unique experiences and perspectives.
What is the difference between existential coaching and other forms of coaching?
Existential coaching differs from other forms of coaching in its focus on the fundamental questions of human existence.
While other types of coaching might focus on achieving specific goals or improving certain skills, existential coaching is more about exploring the meaning and purpose of life, understanding oneself on a deeper level, and addressing existential concerns such as freedom, isolation, meaninglessness and mortality.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we’ve unraveled the nuances of what it truly means to be an existential coach.
And you know what?
It’s not just about providing guidance.
It’s about navigating the profound questions of life, one conversation at a time.
With our comprehensive existential coach job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully prepared to embark on this journey.
But why limit yourself?
Go further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulously curated job listings or refining your resume to the finest detail.
Remember:
Every conversation is a piece of the grand puzzle of existence.
Let’s explore this existence. Together.
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