Existential Psychologist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of mental health, the focus on existential psychologists has never been more critical.

As society evolves, so does the need for professionals who can navigate, expand, and protect our understanding of existential concerns.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an existential psychologist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of existential psychology,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable existential psychologist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Existential Psychologist Duties and Responsibilities

Existential Psychologists focus on human existence and help individuals find meaning and purpose in their lives.

They deal with issues like freedom, mortality, solitude, and meaninglessness, and use therapeutic practices to address their clients’ issues.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Consult with clients about their concerns, fears, and anxieties
• Apply existential principles to understand and address clients’ issues
• Conduct psychological assessments to identify underlying issues
• Develop and implement therapeutic treatment plans
• Guide clients through life transitions, existential crises, and emotional distress
• Help clients explore their values, beliefs, and aspirations
• Provide existential psychoeducation to clients and their families
• Maintain confidential client records and notes
• Stay updated with the latest research and developments in existential psychology
• Refer clients to other mental health professionals or resources when necessary

 

Existential Psychologist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a compassionate, insightful Existential Psychologist to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be skilled in applying existential theory to counseling, guiding clients to confront life’s inherent anxieties and create meaning in their lives.

Responsibilities include diagnosing mental health conditions, developing treatment plans, and providing therapeutic interventions.

A deep understanding of existential concepts such as mortality, isolation, and freedom, along with a genuine interest in helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, is essential.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive psychological assessments to identify client needs and issues
• Develop and implement personalized treatment plans
• Provide therapeutic interventions using existential therapy techniques
• Maintain accurate and timely case notes and reports
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care
• Stay updated with the latest research and developments in existential psychology
• Adhere to ethical guidelines and maintain confidentiality at all times
• Facilitate group therapy sessions, workshops, and seminars when necessary

 

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Psychology (Psy.D. or Ph.D.)
• Valid license to practice psychology
• Proven experience as a clinical or counseling psychologist
• Strong knowledge of existential psychology principles and practices
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• High level of empathy, patience, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and work within ethical guidelines
• Experience in group facilitation would be advantageous

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education credits

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Existential Psychologist
• Work Environment: Clinical setting with some flexibility for remote consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Clinical Director or Head Psychologist.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $73,000 minimum to $113,000 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 experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Existential Psychologist Do?

Existential Psychologists work within the field of psychology, but their approach primarily revolves around the human experience, emotions, and understanding the meaning of life.

They help individuals to confront the existential givens of life such as freedom, isolation, mortality, and meaninglessness, and to use these confrontations to positively influence their mental health and overall wellbeing.

Existential Psychologists often work in a therapeutic setting, providing counseling to individuals, couples, families, or groups.

They may also work in research or academic settings, studying the human condition and contributing to the body of knowledge about human experiences and behaviors.

Their role involves helping clients navigate life crises, make sense of personal loss or trauma, and understand and cope with feelings of anxiety or depression.

They facilitate the clients to explore their values, beliefs, and assumptions and to create their own sense of purpose and meaning in life.

They may also assist clients in developing coping strategies, enhancing their self-awareness, and fostering personal growth and self-actualization.

They view therapy as a journey and partnership between the therapist and the client, with a focus on authenticity, empathy, and understanding.

Existential Psychologists may also write and publish articles and books on the principles and practices of existential psychology, offer workshops and lectures, and participate in conferences and professional forums.

 

Existential Psychologist Qualifications and Skills

An existential psychologist must have the skills and qualifications that align with the nature and demands of the role, including:

• Strong understanding of existential philosophy and the ability to apply existentialist principles in the therapeutic context.
• Deep understanding of human behavior, emotions, and the processes of psychological change.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to establish trust and rapport with clients, and to interact effectively with a diverse range of individuals and groups.
• Strong communication skills to convey complex concepts in a manner that clients can understand, and to listen empathetically to the concerns and experiences of clients.
• Problem-solving skills to help clients navigate through their unique challenges and existential crises.
• Emotional stability and resilience to cope with the emotional demands of the job, including dealing with distressed clients and difficult situations.
• Ability to respect and maintain confidentiality and to adhere to professional and ethical guidelines.
• Research skills to stay up-to-date with the latest findings and trends in existential psychology and related fields.
• A doctoral degree in psychology, along with licensure or certification to practice as a psychologist.

 

Existential Psychologist Experience Requirements

Starting out, an Existential Psychologist typically needs a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field.

This is followed by a master’s degree in existential psychology or counseling psychology with a focus on existential therapy.

During their graduate studies, students often gain first-hand experience through internships or part-time roles in a clinical or counseling setting under the supervision of a licensed professional.

This hands-on experience is crucial for familiarizing them with the demands and responsibilities of their chosen career.

After the completion of a master’s degree, a doctorate in psychology is typically required for licensing.

During their doctoral studies, Existential Psychologists usually specialize in areas such as theories of existential psychology, existential-phenomenological psychotherapy, and existential-therapeutic process.

Post-doctoral experience in a clinical setting is also usually required for licensure.

These professionals can gain further experience in roles such as Clinical Psychologist, Counseling Psychologist, or Existential Therapist, often spending several years building practical skills and knowledge in these roles.

After gaining more than 5 years of experience in the field, Existential Psychologists might have some supervisory or leadership experience and might be ready to take on roles that involve training or leading other therapists.

Continuing education is also crucial in this field as Existential Psychologists are required to stay up-to-date with the latest research and developments in existential psychology.

 

Existential Psychologist Education and Training Requirements

Existential Psychologists typically begin their education journey with a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field.

This four-year degree usually includes coursework in general psychology, counseling, social science, and research methods.

Following this, they pursue a master’s degree in existential psychology, counseling or clinical psychology, often with a focus on existential therapy methods.

These advanced programs provide in-depth study of existential-humanistic theories, client-centered therapy, and the integration of philosophy and psychology.

To become a licensed Existential Psychologist, they must then earn a doctoral degree in psychology, preferably with an emphasis on existential philosophy and therapy.

This typically involves several years of coursework, research, and practical experience, culminating in a dissertation that contributes original research to the field.

All states require psychologists to be licensed, with requirements varying by state.

However, it usually necessitates the completion of a doctoral degree, an internship, and a certain amount of professional experience.

Additionally, candidates must pass a state-recognized exam.

Existential Psychologists often pursue continuing education and additional training throughout their careers, to stay abreast of new research and therapeutic techniques in existential psychology.

This can include workshops, seminars, or advanced certification programs.

While not always required, certification from organizations like the American Board of Professional Psychology can demonstrate a psychologist’s expertise and commitment to the field.

 

Existential Psychologist Salary Expectations

An Existential Psychologist earns an average salary of $77,030 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary depending on the individual’s years of experience, the type of practice, and the geographical location.

 

Existential Psychologist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Existential Psychologist need?

Existential Psychologists should have excellent observational, analytical, and listening skills, as their role involves helping individuals explore their lives’ meaning and purpose.

They should have a deep understanding of existential philosophy and its application to human psychology.

Excellent communication skills, empathy, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are also vital in this role.

 

What kind of education do Existential Psychologists need?

An Existential Psychologist generally needs to have a doctoral degree in Psychology, often specifically in Clinical Psychology.

They may also have specialized training in existential therapy or philosophy.

In addition, they must obtain a license to practice psychology in their state, which typically involves passing a licensing examination.

 

What should you look for in an Existential Psychologist resume?

When reviewing an Existential Psychologist’s resume, look for a doctoral degree in Psychology, preferably with an emphasis on existential therapy.

Other important items to look for include state licensure, any certifications related to existential therapy, and experiences in clinical settings.

It would also be beneficial if they have published research in the field or given presentations on existential psychology topics.

 

What qualities make a good Existential Psychologist?

A good Existential Psychologist should be empathetic and understanding, with a deep respect for individuality and personal freedom.

They should be able to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients feel comfortable discussing their deepest fears and anxieties.

They should also have a strong philosophical and psychological understanding to guide their clients through existential crises.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Existential Psychologist?

Hiring an Existential Psychologist can be challenging due to the specialized nature of their training and the relatively small number of professionals in this field.

It’s important to thoroughly evaluate a candidate’s understanding of existential philosophy and their ability to apply it in a therapeutic context.

Offering competitive salaries and comprehensive professional development opportunities can attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an inside look into the profound world of an existential psychologist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about analyzing behaviors and emotions.

It’s about exploring the human condition, one individual at a time.

With our comprehensive existential psychologist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting meticulous listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Every human psyche is a part of the bigger existential picture.

Let’s explore that vast landscape. Together.

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