What is Philosophical Counseling?
Practically speaking, philosophical counseling is the process by which a philosopher attempts to help an individual (or sometimes a small group) to become aware of and apply philosophical principles to various life issues.
It usually involves a back-and-forth discussion between a person and a philosopher wherein they, together, attempt to discern the person's interior philosophy of life, how that is conflicting with surrounding circumstances, and whether that can be improved. It is often prompted by a particular issue or difficulty that the person is having which, through a variety of questions, opens up to reveal various underlying motives, values, beliefs and such.
What is the Difference between Counseling, Coaching and Consulting?
The difference has to do with the subject (client) and the object of concern (the topic of discussion). Philosophical counseling generally involves a private discussion between the philosopher and the visitor -- sometimes a couple or small group -- about how to work through and resolve a frustrating problem. Coaching also is generally one-on-one or in small groups, but tends toward positive action -- it isn't necessarily addressing a specific problem as much as it is working through positive personal development. Consulting generally applies philosophy to a business, organizational or similar issue.
A particular philosopher will generally specialize in one of these areas, depending on his own expertise, experience, training, etc.
How is Philosophical Counseling different from Psychological Therapy?
Philosophy goes back thousands of years. Philosophical counseling focuses on application of philosophical principles to life issues, things like morals, making decisions, how we perceive and value other people (and life itself), and how we think about life, existence and reality.
Psychology came into its own as a distinct science in the 19th century. There is some overlap and complementarity between psychotherapy and philosophical counseling -- as psychotherapy often incorporates philosophy (from which it sprang) -- but therapy generally attempts to identify (and resolve) mental/emotional disorders, their causes, and the problems that these disorders cause. Psychotherapy often addresses dysfunctions that are the (understandable) result of abuse, trauma and similar events, as well as biochemical imbalances. They do this by a variety of means, including the administration of various medicines.
Unlike psychotherapists, philosophical counselors do not prescribe medicines and their primary purpose is not to diagnose and treat clinical mental or emotional disorders; the local philosopher should not be the first stop for someone who suicidal, having an acute anxiety attack, etc. If someone is struggling with an actual mental disorder or recovering from some kind of trauma, psychological therapy may well be called for. However, if someone is simply wrestling with a decision, a moral dilemma or the like, then philosophical counseling is often a good choice.
Can you meet with groups?
Yes, but that is generally a very different kind of format and topic. In group settings we either discuss some general topic of interest to the group, or provide a kind of workshop on growing in rationality.
Some philosophers host "Socratic cafes" or similar where a small group discusses some cultural topic of interest wherein the philosopher often acts as a kind of referee or light-handed guide.
Will you work with couples?
It depends on the situation. Working with a couple is about four times as complex as working with an individual, because we are dealing with the beliefs and values of two people, plus how they interact with each other. We can do it, but you just have to expect it to take awhile. It will often involve meetings with the couple, as well as individual meetings.
Will you conduct in-person meetings?
We can, if you wish. We usually conduct such meetings in the person's home or place of business (if there is a private room).
What kind of training do Philosophical Counselors usually have?
Much like psychological therapists, most philosophical counselors have at least a graduate degree in philosophy. Many have doctorates or other certifications. There are also agencies that offer training and certification specifically for philosophical counseling (these generally require at least a graduate degree plus additional training for certification).
How does a Philosophical Counseling session proceed?
It is somewhat informal, and varies from person to person. In the first session there is usually some self-introduction and an overview. The real work usually begins with the counselee simply stating whatever question or issue is on his mind. The philosopher then attempts to engage the counselee in discussion about this issue so as to discern what beliefs, values, habits and judgments are contributing to the situation. They together examine these to see whether they correspond to reality, are actually beneficial, and how they can be improved. This will typically happen by asking questions. The philosopher asks questions for a few reasons, including:
- He must avoid imposing his own ideas upon the discussion, or at least be very delicate about doing so. This isn't a philosophy lecture.
- Asking a question instead of making an assertion is an invitation to the other party to think about why he believes what he does. This serves the purpose of clarifying and strengthening solid beliefs, while helping the person perceive problematic beliefs and values.
The ultimate goal is for the counselee to develop a deeper understanding of the issue, improve his thinking and reasoning abilities, bring his interior life into greater order, to (ideally) resolve whatever external issue may be in play, and for him to experience greater peace in life.
Are Philosophical Counselors Licensed?
This is an interesting question. The short answer is, in general, no (unless they also happen to be practicing psychotherapists).
The longer (somewhat-philosophical) answer: Licensing is, effectively, a writ of permission from someone to do something. And so, asking if someone is licensed is akin to asking if the person has permission to do what he is doing. The question begs this one: Why would I need someone's permission to talk with another person and answer his questions about philosophy and life? Or, asked another way, on what basis could anyone say, "You can't talk with people about beliefs, values, ethics and philosophy without our permission, or we'll fine you and put you in jail." Any person who believes he has the right to control what two other consenting adults discuss in private, especially under the threat of harm, is clearly (and dangerously) delusional and in need of some psychotherapy!
Yes, I did just describe the beliefs and behavior of most politicians and members of various licensing boards.
Competent people -- which includes most philosophers -- generally don't admit to needing permission to engage in a philosophical discussion with someone. In fact, most find the mere idea quite laughable (and it is). However, some philosophical counseling organizations do provide supplemental training in keeping with their own modalities, and often provide certificates to philosophers who complete their coursework and any related examinations, practicums, etc.
How much does Philosophical Counseling cost?
Each philosopher sets his own fee. Initial sessions are often free, and some philosophers provide services on a donation basis. However, unlike psychological therapy, it is often not covered by insurance.
We merely ask for a donation.
How Long Does it Take?
Most meetings last from about 20 minutes to an hour, and it typically takes two to six sessions to thoroughly explore common issues.
Why is your Intake Form so Stinking Long?
Three reasons (among others):
- There are a lot of nuts on the Internet, and I don't want to waste my time. If someone isn't thoughtful enough to fill out the form, then we probably aren't going to have a fruitful conversation.
- Working through the questions on the form often help the person even before we ever meet.
- It allows me to discern, in advance, whether the issue in question is something that is best addressed by philosophical counseling. If not, that is good to know as soon as possible.
What is the Meeting Format?
Philosophical counseling can take place privately, face-to-face, via video-chat, telephone or e-mail. It can also take place via group discussion. Our practice is primarily via video-chat on a one-on-one basis.
