The Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis of the Job Search Experiences of International Counseling Doctoral Students in the U.S.

Authors

Yi-Ju Cheng, Rider UniversityFollow
Juleen BuserFollow
Terry PertuitFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5836-6652

Author Biography

Yi-Ju Cheng is an associate professor in the counseling program at Rider University. Currently she serves as the president of New Jersey Association for Play Therapy (NJAPT) and the chair of the Research Committee of the Association for Play Therapy (APT). Her research and clinical focus center on play therapy and diversity-related topics. She provides child-centered play therapy (CCPT), child-parent relationship therapy (CPRT), and child-centered group play therapy (CCGPT) certification training nationally and internationally.

Document Type

Empirical Research Article

Keywords

international counseling doctoral students, job search, international students

Subject Area

Clinical Supervision, Counseling, Counselor Education

Abstract

International counseling doctoral students (ICDSs) bring valuable cultural diversity to the counseling profession in the U.S. However, their transition to professional roles is complicated by cultural identity factors, limited support for career guidance, and employment barriers tied to language, immigration status, and unfamiliarity with U.S. licensing and employment resources. There is limited understanding of their job search experiences. This qualitative study, through interpretive phenomenological analysis, examines 12 ICDSs’ job search experiences in the U.S. Nine themes were identified. The findings highlight a discrepancy between the counseling profession’s stated commitment to diversity and the actual support to international students, and the critical role of institutional support systems and culturally inclusive resources in mitigating these challenges. Drawing upon participants’ insights, the study presents recommendations to enhance ICDSs’ job search experiences, fostering their success, well-being and sense of belonging.

Public Significance Statement

International counseling doctoral students (ICDSs) inevitably face unique challenges as transitioning to professional roles, such as cultural identity factors, limited support for career guidance, and employment barriers related to language, immigration status, and unfamiliarity with U.S. licensing and employment resources. However, there is limited understanding of their job search experiences in the existing literature. This qualitative study aims to bridge this gap and to highlight the critical role of institutional support systems and culturally inclusive resources in mitigating these challenges.

Recommended Citation

Cheng, Y., Buser, J., & Pertuit, T. (2026). The interpretive phenomenological analysis of the job search experiences of international counseling doctoral students in the U.S. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 20(1), 1-21.