Philosophical Counseling
Dearbhla became a certified philosophical counseler through the American Philosophical Practitioners Association (APPA), of whom she is an adjunct member. She holds two Masters degrees in philosophy, one from University College Dublin, and one from the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Wittgenstein, one of the most important philosophers of the twentieth century, famously said that philosophy's most practical use is 'untying the knots in our thinking.' Practical philosophy differs from other approaches to counseling in that it is non-diagnostic, non-clinical, and does not use psychological, medical, or theological models. Rather, it seeks to create a space which is optimal for dialogue between client and philosophical practitioner in order to facilitate the client's journey towards deeper understanding of the issue at hand.
Issues for which people seek out guidance with a trained philosopher include, but are not limited to, ethical dilemmas, difficult life decisions, loss of meaning, fear of death, and questions of value. The role of the philosophical practitioner is to help the client find clarity through the use of philosophical tools while drawing on the wisdom of the philosophical cannon.
Yoga and philosophy make wonderful companions. Yoga is primarily concerned with the journey inward to the self, a journey which is signposted by the question 'what am I?.' Philosophy can be understood as a system of inquiry, a method of formulating and seeking to answer questions with the aim of furthering understanding. The quest for truth is central to the philosophic endeavor. By the same token the yogic path brings one closer and closer to a life lived in truth and authenticity.
The practice of philosophy fits perfectly into the model of holistic wellbeing which prizes a healthy mind as much as a healthy body. According to Socrates "the highest form of human excellence is to question oneself and others." Through such a process of questioning we come to discover our core values and beliefs and eliminate potential sources of anxiety such as unresolved feelings and conflicting belief systems.
Of course we persons are not finished items, we are works in progress and our beliefs and values may change over time. An experienced philosophical counselor can help navigate the murky waters of conflicting beliefs, desires and values.
To set up an appointment email: Dearbhla@durgayoga.com or call (310) 721-3452.