Aida Hougaard Andersen

Aida Hougaard Andersen is an Associate Professor at the Department of Psychology, University of Southern Denmark. She is affiliated with the research groups in Existential and Humanistic Psychology and is actively involved in clinical, educational, and existential psychology research. Her work spans multiple domains including existential health, psychology of religion, and qualitative methodologies.

• PhD in Psychology, awarded 2020
• Licensed Psychologist with clinical background
• Head of Studies, Department of Psychology (2021–present)
• Leader of Research and Education Clinic (2022–2023)

Her research interests focus on existential and spiritual dimensions in clinical and educational settings, particularly using qualitative methods such as Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and thematic analysis. She explores how meaning, religion, and existential concerns shape psychological well-being in contexts like chronic illness, adolescence, and medical practice.

Recent publications highlight trends in existential communication, adolescent experiences during the pandemic, and meaning-making in cardiac rehabilitation. Her work often involves collaboration across disciplines and institutions, emphasizing post-secular and humanistic approaches.

Scientific Awards:

• No specific awards mentioned in the text.

She is actively involved in advising, teaching, and academic leadership. Her teaching includes lectures on existential and religious psychology, supervision of student theses, and development of educational programs. She leads multiple research projects, including those on existential communication in psychology education and adolescents during the pandemic. She also participates in public outreach through media contributions and conference presentations.

She is associated with research labs and teams such as the Existential and Humanistic Psychology Research Group and contributes to interdisciplinary projects on health, meaning, and education.