Dr. Derrick W. Klaassen

Existential Analysis in the North American Psychotherapeutic Context

Although Logotherapy and Existential Analysis (EA) enjoy an enduring and widespread appeal in Western Europe, EA is a new addition to the panoply of psychotherapies in North America. EA shares some common values and therapeutic processes with other approaches, especially those with existential and/or person-centred commitments. However, there are also unique facets that are much needed in our current cultural situation in North America. The aim of this presentation is twofold: Firstly, I would like to help us to remember the history and development of EA in Canada and the United States. Although we are young as a school of psychotherapy, it is important for the shaping of our identity to recall and tell our story well. Such stories shape our identity and development. Secondly, I’d like to reflect on the unique contributions that EA makes to the North American psychotherapeutic context and highlight the importance of this personal and dialogical approach to psychotherapy in our age of technique. My hope is that these reflections will assist us in nurturing a community of scholarship and practice.

Derrick W. Klaassen, Ph.D., R.Psych., is an Assistant Professor of Counselling Psychology at Trinity Western University in Langley, BC, as well as a Registered Psychologist in private practice.  He completed clinical training in Existential Analysis, and serves as the chair of the board and as a clinical trainer for the Existential Analysis Society of Canada.  Dr. Klaassen practices as an associate with Altus Psychological Services in Fort Langley, BC.  His psychotherapeutic practice focuses on assisting and accompanying clients who are dealing with a variety of psychological concerns (e.g., anxiety, depression, grief/loss, PTSD, etc.).  He has developed a specialty in working with clients who have survived traumatic injuries or are dealing with chronic illness (e.g., chronic pain, traumatic brain injuries).  As a professor, he teaches graduate courses in professional ethics, psychopathology, research design and grief counselling, and provides clinical and research supervision. Dr. Klaassen's research interests focus on existential and spiritual issues in psychotherapy.  He frequently collaborates with students and colleagues on professional publications and presentations.  Most of his current projects have a connection to Existential Analysis.