
THE CLINIC @ THE MONTGOMERY
DR. JONATHAN ERIC CARROLL, KLPC, NCPC, NCCE,
ACPE PSYCHOTHERAPIST &
APPA-CERTIFIED AFFILIATE PHILOSOPHICAL PRACTITIONER
Therapy, Philosophical Counseling, Spiritual Direction, Executive Leadership Coaching, & Business Consulting
WHAT IS PHILOSOPHICAL COUNSELING?
Philosophical counseling is a form of personal development guidance that draws upon the rich traditions and frameworks of Western and Eastern philosophy to help individuals explore life's biggest questions, examine their belief systems, and gain deeper self-understanding and wisdom.
Unlike traditional psychotherapy, which often focuses on diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, philosophical counseling aims to empower individuals to grapple with existential concerns, confront ethical dilemmas, and uncover their authentic values and worldviews.
Who can benefit from philosophical counseling? Essentially, anyone seeking greater clarity, meaning, and purpose in their lives can potentially benefit from this approach. It resonates with individuals who feel dissatisfied with surface-level narratives or societal norms and yearn to delve into deeper reflections on the human condition. Philosophical counseling can be particularly valuable for those navigating major life transitions, facing complex moral choices, or simply seeking to live a more examined and intentional life.
How does philosophical counseling work? Philosophical counselors act as guides, facilitating a process of inquiry and exploration through the lens of various philosophical frameworks. They encourage clients to question their assumptions, challenge conventional thinking, and engage in critical self-reflection. Rather than providing prescriptive solutions, philosophical counselors create a safe space for individuals to uncover their own insights and develop a more coherent and authentic worldview aligned with their deepest values and aspirations.
The process may involve studying and discussing the works of influential philosophers, exploring thought experiments, and engaging in Socratic dialogue to uncover hidden contradictions or inconsistencies in one's beliefs and thought patterns. By drawing upon the wisdom of thinkers across different eras and cultures, individuals can gain fresh perspectives and expand their intellectual and emotional horizons.
Ultimately, philosophical counseling aims to cultivate greater self-awareness, emotional resilience, and the ability to navigate life's complexities with wisdom and authenticity. It empowers individuals to become the authors of their own narratives, grounded in a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
***
Philosophical counseling emerged in Germany in the 1980s through Gerd Achenbach's work, offering practical philosophical guidance alongside or separate from psychotherapy. While distinct approaches, they can work complementarily.
Core differences and synergies:
- Psychotherapy focuses on emotional healing and mental health; philosophical counseling examines reasoning and beliefs
- Psychotherapy addresses psychological symptoms; philosophical counseling explores conceptual foundations
- Combined approach can address both emotional and intellectual aspects of client challenges
The practice involves:
- Socratic dialogue examining beliefs and assumptions
- Analysis of logical reasoning and argumentation
- Exploration of ethical dilemmas and value systems
- Integration with therapeutic techniques when appropriate
- Development of critical thinking alongside emotional awareness
Clients can expect:
- Systematic examination of concerns through philosophical methods
- Balance of rational analysis with psychological insights
- Help identifying inconsistencies in thinking while acknowledging emotional factors
- Support in making well-reasoned decisions informed by both approaches
Common applications:
- Existential anxiety requiring both philosophical and psychological support
- Relationship issues involving emotional and logical components
- Life transitions needing practical and conceptual guidance
- Ethical dilemmas with emotional implications
Sessions typically combine philosophical analysis with psychological awareness. Many practitioners hold credentials in both fields, though this isn't universal. The approaches can work separately or together, depending on client needs and practitioner qualifications.
Philosophical counseling requires formal philosophy training and certification from organizations like APPA. When combined with psychotherapy, practitioners need appropriate mental health credentials.
Combining traditional methods of psychotherapy with the integration of clients’ values,
philosophy, theology, and religious and spiritual experience.