Becoming an Existential-Humanistic Therapist: Lessons from the Journey

Abstract

This presentation examines lessons on becoming an existential-humanistic therapist derived from the experiences of influential existential-humanistic therapists. We begin by providing an overview of the process of becoming an existential-humanistic therapist, including the development of essential therapist qualities and consideration of how to utilize one’s life experiences toward becoming an effective therapist. Next, five recognized leaders in the existential-humanistic therapy movement who contributed to the book, Becoming an Existential-Humanistic Therapist, will briefly share their own journey and each will identify at least one core lesson on becoming an effective existential-humanistic therapist that can be derived from their narrative. Two students will then provide a response to the luminaries, discussing how this influences their own path to becoming existential-humanistic therapists.