Alongside these stories, HeeSun Park reviews two important research studies on becoming an existential-humanistic therapist while Falk and Hoffman highlight the central themes emerging from the narratives. Park, Falk, and Hoffman also share their own stories of becoming. The book concludes with reflective exercises for individuals considering pursuing a career as an existential-humanistic counselor or therapist, as well as exercises for current therapists to reflect upon their own journey. Whether already an existential-humanistic therapist wanting to reflect upon your journey or a student considering pursuing becoming an existential-humanistic therapist, this volume is essential reading to clarify and deepen one’s journey.
Julia Falk, PhD, graduated from Saybrook University’s doctoral program in humanistic, existential, and transpersonal psychology with a strong interest in the therapeutic aspects of narrative. She lives near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, where she is active in developing programs that support holistic health and well-being. She has taught Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction for more than a decade, along with life story courses, mindful movement, and the practice of Focusing. She had a long career in nursing that culminated in her work to support people who live with chronic difficulty. She lives with her husband, Carl, and hand-me-down dog, Trigger. Their children are all grown and away. She is a dedicated and dreadful jogger.
Louis Hoffman, PhD, is a licensed psychologist in private practice and the executive director of the Rocky Mountain Humanistic Counseling and Psychological Association. An avid writer, he has 20 books and over 100 journal articles and book chapters to his credit. He has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and six of its divisions (1, 10, 32, 36, 48, 52) for his contributions to the field of professional psychology. In 2021, he received the Rollo May Award from the Society for Humanistic Psychology. He serves on the editorial boards of the Journal of Humanistic Psychology (Senior International Editor), The Humanistic Psychologist, the Journal of Constructivist Psychology, and Janus Head. Most important, Dr. Hoffman is a husband and father. He lives in beautiful Colorado Springs with his wife, three sons, and two dogs.