Existential Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the complex world of human psychology, the focus on existential therapists has never been sharper.

As society evolves, so does the need for knowledgeable professionals who can guide, support, and facilitate individuals navigating existential concerns and crises.

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

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of existential therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable existential therapist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Existential Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Existential Therapists focus on helping clients find meaning and purpose in life.

They use a philosophical approach to explore the challenges, conflicts, and dilemmas of existence.

They facilitate clients’ self-understanding, self-exploration, and self-growth.

As an Existential Therapist, the following duties and responsibilities are typically involved:

• Conduct one-on-one or group therapy sessions
• Help clients understand and confront the existential givens of life: death, freedom, isolation, and meaninglessness
• Facilitate exploration of personal values, beliefs, and assumptions to encourage self-awareness
• Assist clients in identifying and understanding their own existential anxieties and conflicts
• Encourage clients to create and pursue their own meaning and purpose in life
• Promote the development of therapeutic relationships based on empathy, authenticity, and understanding
• Devise personalized treatment plans based on the unique needs and circumstances of each client
• Collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as psychiatrists or social workers, to ensure comprehensive client care
• Stay updated with the latest research and developments in existential therapy
• Adhere to professional standards, ethical guidelines, and confidentiality laws

 

Existential Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an empathetic and experienced Existential Therapist to join our growing mental health team.

As an Existential Therapist, you will address patient’s inner conflicts and anxieties related to existential concerns such as death, freedom, isolation and meaninglessness.

You will utilize your expertise to provide therapy and help our clients understand and deal with their life challenges through a philosophical perspective.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct initial assessments to identify the client’s therapy needs
• Provide individual and group existential therapy sessions
• Identify and address existential concerns and anxieties
• Develop and implement effective therapeutic treatment plans
• Assist clients in making sense of their lives and finding meaning
• Collaborate with other mental health professionals to provide holistic care
• Document and maintain accurate patient records
• Stay updated with latest developments in existential therapy
• Adhere to ethical and professional guidelines and standards

 

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work or related field
• Current and valid state licensure as a therapist or counselor
• Proven experience as an Existential Therapist
• Strong understanding of existential philosophy and therapy
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism and confidentiality
• Experience with Electronic Health Records (EHR) software is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life insurance
• Retirement plan with company match
• Professional development opportunities
• Generous paid time off
• Employee assistance program

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Existential Therapist
• Work Environment: Office or clinic setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for home visits or client consultations.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Clinical Director or Mental Health Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $65,000 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 experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Existential Therapist Do?

Existential Therapists are mental health professionals who use the principles of existential philosophy to assist their clients in managing and understanding their lives.

They work with clients to help them deal with a variety of issues, such as anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, relationship problems, and life transitions.

They aim to empower their clients to live authentically and make meaningful, conscious choices.

Existential Therapists help clients explore concepts such as freedom, responsibility, meaning, and death.

They encourage clients to confront these existential themes in order to make sense of their experiences and shape their own lives.

They use a variety of therapeutic techniques, including dialogue, clarification of values, reflection, and exploration of personal experiences.

They may also incorporate elements of other therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral or psychodynamic therapy.

Existential Therapists may work in private practice, mental health clinics, hospitals, or community health centers.

They can serve a diverse range of clients, including individuals, couples, families, and groups.

Their ultimate goal is to help clients live more fulfilling lives by helping them understand and navigate the inherent challenges and paradoxes of human existence.

 

Existential Therapist Qualifications and Skills

Existential Therapists require a blend of interpersonal skills, academic knowledge, and personal understanding to effectively support their clients, including:

• Critical thinking and self-awareness to understand and reflect on their own existence and humanistic beliefs, and how this may influence their approach to therapy.
• Strong knowledge of existential philosophy and psychological theories to provide appropriate therapeutic interventions.
• Exceptional communication skills for clear and empathetic dialogues with clients to help them understand and navigate their existential concerns.
• Interpersonal skills to build trust and a strong therapeutic alliance with clients, while respecting their individual experiences and perceptions.
• Problem-solving skills to help clients explore and resolve their existential anxieties and conflicts.
• Resilience and emotional stability to cope with the intense emotional content often discussed in existential therapy sessions.
• Excellent listening skills to fully understand and validate the client’s experiences and feelings.
• Continued commitment to professional development, including staying updated on the latest research and techniques in existential therapy.

 

Existential Therapist Experience Requirements

An Existential Therapist must typically have a significant amount of theoretical and practical experience in psychology and therapeutic counseling.

They must first complete a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as psychology, social work, or counseling.

Following the completion of their degree, candidates often pursue a master’s degree in counseling or psychology where they gain extensive knowledge in existential therapy concepts.

Some may choose to further specialize by pursuing a doctoral degree or postgraduate studies in existential therapy.

The next critical step is to complete an internship or supervised practice, which generally includes around 2,000 to 4,000 hours of client contact.

This hands-on experience is crucial in developing the therapeutic skills required and gaining a better understanding of the practical applications of existential therapy.

Experience in various therapeutic settings such as clinics, hospitals, and community health organizations can be beneficial.

These roles provide exposure to diverse client populations and therapeutic issues, enabling the therapist to gain a broader perspective and versatility in their practice.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have cultivated a deep understanding of existential concerns and the human condition.

They often develop advanced therapeutic techniques and may be ready for a leadership or supervisory role.

Continued education and professional development are also highly encouraged in this field to stay updated on the latest research and therapeutic strategies.

 

Existential Therapist Education and Training Requirements

Existential Therapists are required to have at least a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or another relevant field.

In these graduate programs, students are taught the necessary counseling and psychotherapy skills alongside a thorough grounding in existential philosophy.

They learn to help clients confront issues related to existence, such as freedom, responsibility, meaning, and death.

Many also opt for a doctoral degree in psychology with a focus on existential therapy, which provides them with more extensive knowledge and specialization in this approach.

In addition to their academic qualifications, Existential Therapists are required to complete supervised clinical experience, which can range from 2,000 to 4,000 hours depending on the state.

To practice, Existential Therapists must obtain a state license.

Licensing requirements vary by state but generally include a master’s degree, supervised clinical experience, and passing a state-recognized exam.

Continuing education is often required to maintain licensure, and many therapists choose to take advanced courses or seminars on existential therapy to keep their knowledge and skills up to date.

Voluntary certification is available through organizations such as the International Society for Existential Therapy and can help therapists demonstrate their expertise in the field.

 

Existential Therapist Salary Expectations

An Existential Therapist can expect to earn an average salary of $76,850 (USD) per year.

However, this rate can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience in the field, level of education, and location.

Top earners in this profession may earn a significantly higher income.

 

Existential Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills are essential for an Existential Therapist?

Existential Therapists should possess exceptional communication and listening skills, as they need to thoroughly understand their clients’ issues and provide effective solutions.

They should have empathy, patience, and an ability to build rapport with clients.

Additionally, a sound knowledge of existential philosophy and therapeutic practices are crucial.

They should also have strong problem-solving abilities to help clients navigate life’s existential challenges.

 

What qualifications does an Existential Therapist need?

Existential Therapists should have a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field.

Typically, they also need to complete several years of supervised practice and pass a state licensure exam to legally practice.

Some Existential Therapists might also choose to earn a doctorate in the field.

It’s also beneficial to have a deep understanding and study of existential philosophy and theory.

 

What should you look for in an Existential Therapist’s resume?

In an Existential Therapist’s resume, you should look for a master’s degree in counseling, psychology or a related field as well as a valid license to practice therapy.

Evidence of supervised practice and continuing education related to existential therapy are also valuable.

Other important considerations include experience working with diverse populations, demonstration of empathy and compassion, and excellent communication skills.

 

What qualities make a good Existential Therapist?

A good Existential Therapist is compassionate, patient, and possesses a deep understanding of existential philosophy.

They should be excellent listeners and communicators, capable of creating a safe, non-judgmental space for their clients.

Additionally, they should have a strong ability to empathize and connect with their clients on a deeply personal level.

They should also maintain their own emotional health and practice self-care, as the job can be emotionally taxing.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Existential Therapist?

Hiring an Existential Therapist can be challenging due to the specific skill set and knowledge required for the role.

It is essential to find a candidate who not only meets the educational and licensure requirements but also has a deep understanding of existential philosophy and a demonstrated ability to apply it in a therapeutic context.

Therefore, the recruitment process may be lengthy and involve thorough screening and interviews to ensure the candidate’s suitability.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we journeyed deep into the core of what it truly means to be an existential therapist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about conducting therapy sessions.

It’s about navigating the human experience, one meaningful conversation at a time.

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

But why not go further?

Delve even deeper with our job description generator. It’s your best tool for crafting detailed listings or perfecting your resume.

Always remember:

Every conversation is a piece of the larger human narrative.

Let’s uncover that story. Together.

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