Overview

From foundational theory to practical & clinical application

CIEAL offers a variety of professional training and personal development opportunities that are designed to be managed alongside current occupations and/or other training.

Prospective Students

Who is CIEAL
training for?

Counselling & Psychotherapy Training

1 Psychologists, psychotherapists, clinical counsellors, social workers
2 Undergraduate and graduate students in psychology and related helping professions

Integration of Existential Therapy in Professional Practice

3 Life coaches, counsellors, teachers, clergy, consultants, leadership

Personal Enrichment

4 Individuals curious about living an existentially fulfilled life

Objectives

Transformation–
not just transmission

Our objective is to provide foundational knowledge and theory which is expanded upon through a transformative learning experience where students are encouraged to grow as persons and professionals. Our education and trainings are designed to facilitate this through:

Transmission of Knowledge

Students will be taught core theoretical concepts and practical models of existential therapy, which integrate existential philosophy and contemporary practices of psychotherapy.

Phenomenology

This is the foundational method of existential therapy. Students learn how to foster openness and curiosity, become aware of and bracket their assumptions, and listen deeply to others in order to arrive at a richer understanding of the other’s position and situation, which then informs authentic action.

Lived Experience

Some courses and workshops involve students critically processing and reflecting on their lived experience through one-on-one meetings with an existential therapist and through encounter groups with peers.

Dialogue

Students will engage with the material themselves (reading, listening to lectures) and are encouraged to ask questions, discuss, and expand on their understanding of the material with their instructors and peers.

Case Studies & Supervision

Some courses provide opportunities for students to present clinical cases within group supervision of their peers, facilitated by an instructor. This provides opportunities to apply what students are learning in their clinical work, and to allow their work with clients to inform and shape their understanding of the material.

Creative Engagement

Some courses involve creative expansion, synthesis, and integration of the material in a way that is most meaningful for the student.

Collaborative Process

Courses foster a community of scholarship and practice that encourage collaboration among peers. Some courses allow for flexibility in their structure and delivery of meetings, as well as flexibility in the timeline of completion.

Professional Development

Education & Training

Workshops

in Existential Therapy

Interested in the foundations of existential therapy? Learn about the schools of existential therapy, practice foundational skills, and engage in rich dialogue with participants.

Online Interactive Multi-day Certificate CE Credit

1 For professionals looking to acquire and enhance clinical skills
2 Active participation of attendees is required
3 Emphasis on integration of theory and practice
4 Promotes personal development of professionals
5 Up to 20 participants
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Webinars

in Existential Therapy

Designed for professionals looking for enhancement of knowledge and training in specialized topics.

3 Hours
Online Live On-Demand CE Credit

1 Active participation of attendees is encouraged
2 Receive a recording
3 Unlimited participants
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Courses

in Existential Therapy

Designed for professionals seeking in-depth exploration and training in specialized topics.

6-12 Weeks
Online Live On-Demand Certificate CE Credit

1 One module per week or can be completed at your own pace
2 May include a combination of instruction, group interaction, assignments & reading
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Modules

on Existential Topics

Designed for both professional development and personal enrichment, explore different topics related to existential themes.

1-1.5 Hours
Online Live On-Demand CE Credit

1 Opportunity to explore an array of topics
2 Can be completed at your own pace
3 Complete a quiz for continuing education credits
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Retreats

on Existential Topics

Designed for attendees of our workshops and courses to deepen their professional and personal integration of an existential topic.

3-5 Days
In-Person Experiential Multi-day CE Credit

1 Retreats run once per year with a new special topic each year
2 Limited spots available
3 Emphasis on skills building and personal integration of topic
4 Focused on building and deepening connections
5 Open to attendees of workshops and courses
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Testimonials

Attending the workshop with Janelle and Mihaela was so valuable both personally and professionally. They are passionate, know the theory inside and out, and provide a solid grounding in existential theory. Beyond that, they really provide exposure to a new way of thinking about our work which emphasizes our shared humanity, invites depth, and provides our clients with the freedom to make new choices. The workshop provides opportunities to reflect, discuss, and experience therapeutic encounter. Among the best trainings I have ever attended and I don’t hesitate to recommend it.

– Rachel King (Therapist), Edmonton

For those of you who are looking to deepen and expand your own experience as a therapist as well as provide a more enriched therapeutic experience for your clients, this is the workshop for you! Not only will you learn about the underpinnings of Existential Analysis you will learn practical application of this model of how to BE. Both educators were exceptional in their delivery and in their care for all of the participants. This workshop was a balance of academic and experiential learning. Thus, leaving me feeling knowledgeable, confident, and knowing I want more.

– Sue Noble (Therapist), White Rock

The Foundations of Existential Therapy Workshop makes complex philosophical themes easily implementable for therapists to bring into their sessions right away. It will inspire you to learn more about yourself, help you be more present with clients and give you the framework you need to go deeper – personally and professionally. Janelle and Mihaela expertly scaffold theory into practice and create the space for depth integration. In these 4 days, you’ll be changed as a person and as a therapist.

– Bethany Zelent (Therapist), Wales, UK

Attending the workshop with Janelle and Mihaela was so valuable both personally and professionally. They are passionate, know the theory inside and out, and provide a solid grounding in existential theory. Beyond that, they really provide exposure to a new way of thinking about our work which emphasizes our shared humanity, invites depth, and provides our clients with the freedom to make new choices. The workshop provides opportunities to reflect, discuss, and experience therapeutic encounter. Among the best trainings I have ever attended and I don’t hesitate to recommend it.

– Rachel King (Therapist), Edmonton

Personal & professional development for living a fulfilled existence