In the past few days, I’ve come across some online commentary questioning the legitimacy of philosophical counseling as a practice—sometimes with humor, sometimes with skepticism, and sometimes with strong dismissiveness.
Here are my 2 cents on this kind of work:
I have been doing this work for many years now. First, it started as a way to give back to the community, as I noticed that just clarifying someone’s thinking and giving them a perspective helped them lead a better life. They made fewer ‘bad’ choices and got into the habit of making ‘better’ choices and lived happier lives. Being a student of philosophy, I was used to fending off people’s queries about what is the purpose of my life, what do I do with someone who is bothering them, or how do I deal with this tricky situation. I became their mirror, helped them reflect, analyze and find an ethical and practical solution. That helped them feel better about themselves without creating enemies. Around the pandemic, given how many people were distressed, I decided to open my practice to anyone who wanted my help, got a certificate from APPA, as it was a legal requirement and was allowed to function in the same space as the counselors, as an alternative method of practice.
I understand that this work is not always familiar. It doesn’t easily fit into traditional academic or clinical boxes, and that can make people uneasy. But for many, it’s precisely this in-between space—between philosophical inquiry and lived reflection—that creates room for meaningful, ethical, and sometimes transformative dialogue.
Philosophical counseling is not a substitute for therapy. Nor is it a fringe activity run by “failed philosophers.” It has a long lineage—from Socratic questioning to the Upanishadic dialogues to contemporary thinkers who believe that philosophy, when practiced with depth and integrity, belongs not only in journals, but in life.
My work is grounded in ethics, dialogue, and respect. I offer it professionally, transparently, and always with care. And I’m grateful that more and more people—students, institutions, and individuals—are finding it resonant and helpful.
For those who have questions, I welcome them. For those who are skeptical, I respect that. And for those quietly finding something nourishing in this work, thank you. Your presence is what makes this path possible. I am inspired by each and every counselee, who turns their life around. It continues my faith in how we can improve our lives.
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