Philosophical Counselling
Philosophical counsellors use philosophical skills and insights to help clients resolve issues in their personal and professional lives. Various modes and methodologies may be employed.
Philosophical counsellors apply critical thinking techniques to help clients make sense of any issues that are unclear or are causing confusion. They can also provide guidance and insight on questions that are traditionally philosophical, ethical or existential in nature, such as: the value of human life and relationships; conceptions of happiness and fulfilment; conflicting moral values; explanation and justification; and choice and responsibility, amongst many others. Some counsellors may additionally offer tuition on philosophical methods, or coaching in decision-making techniques.
Philosophical counselling can have profound psychological benefits. Counsellors engage in dialogue about personal problems, predicaments and values, addressing the issues of concern in a professional and respectful manner and reflecting on the best ways to act or adjust. Often philosophical progress can alleviate the sources of stress and anxiety more directly than courses of medication or programmes of psychotherapy. For many people, this is a personal breakthrough.
Some philosophical counsellors also help people expand their horizons by developing a unique personal worldview and philosophy of life. The discussions may invoke profound issues such as metaphysics, transcendence, and spirituality, and explore complex debates between differing political convictions, religious and atheistic worldviews, and personal conceptions of reality and meaning. The philosophical counsellor acts as a guide and companion on this personal quest for wisdom and self-actualisation. The process is suitable for people who seek philosophical or spiritual enlightenment but are dissatisfied with traditional or new-age doctrines.
Potential clients for philosophical counselling must be prepared to examine and challenge their own ideas and reasoning processes, and seek to establish an adequate justification for their beliefs. The philosophical counsellor is trained to assist this process with patience and respect.
The SPP maintains a register of philosophical counsellors with a variety of individual approaches and specialities. Please use the contact details provided to enquire about the particular services they provide.
Find out more about the SPP's training course in philosophical counselling.
Alternative expositions of philosophical counselling can be found on the personal websites of other philosophical practitioners
