ABSTRACT
Counselor impostor phenomenon (CIP) is characterized by persistent self-doubt and the dismissal of evidence of competence and is prevalent among counselors-in-training (CITs). Although prior research has examined individual correlates of CIP, no study has examined the relative contributions of vulnerability traits, broad personality dimensions, and coping resources within a single model, or whether CIP and its dispositional correlates differ across training stages. This cross-sectional study examined relationships between CIP and dispositional traits among 172 CITs enrolled in CACREP-accredited counseling programs. A three-step hierarchical regression entered evaluative concerns, striving, and procrastination in the first block, the Big Five personality traits in the second block, and self-compassion and grit in the third block. Evaluative concerns was the strongest predictor in the first block. Among the Big Five, only openness contributed unique variance. In the full model, self-compassion and evaluative concerns were the strongest predictors, contributing nearly identical unique variance in opposing directions, followed by openness and striving, which emerged as a negative predictor once self-critical evaluation was held constant. Procrastination, neuroticism, extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, and grit did not contribute unique variance. A one-way MANOVA found no significant differences in CIP or dispositional traits across pre-practicum, practicum, and internship stages. Implications for counselor education and supervision are discussed.