Michael R Spicher, PhD

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Philosophical Counseling

Reflect deeply. Question wisely. Dialogue openly.

Life and work often move faster than reflection. Whether you’re leading a team, navigating change, or feeling disconnected from your values, philosophical counseling offers space to slow down, ask deeper questions, and reconnect with what matters most.

We all wrestle with uncertainty, doubt, and what it means to live well. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

While I often work with leaders who feel disengaged or stuck, this work is open to anyone seeking clarity, meaning, and direction. You don’t need to be in crisis—just curious, thoughtful, and ready to reflect.

When Your Main Diagnosis is Being Human

Philosophical counseling is a reflective conversation. It isn’t therapy or medical care—I don’t diagnose or treat mental illness. It’s a space for thoughtful dialogue—grounded in the methods and wisdom of philosophy—where we explore the assumptions, values, and tensions shaping your life and work. You might think of it as a constructive interruption to your usual patterns of thought.

I hold a PhD in philosophy and am certified by the American Philosophical Practitioners Association (APPA). In my practice, I draw from ancient philosophy and contemporary thought to support meaningful reflection and ethical clarity.

When It’s Right for You

Clients often come to a philosophical counselor when they’re:

  • Feeling stuck, disengaged, or disconnected from their work or life
  • Facing a difficult decision or ethical tension
  • Experiencing a shift in values, identity, or priorities
  • Seeking clarity about purpose, ambition, or responsibility
  • Craving more meaning, depth, or perspective in how they live and lead
  • Questioning foundational beliefs or assumptions

This is not about fixing you. It’s about thinking clearly, honestly, and courageously—together.

Session Details

Sessions are 50 minutes, held virtually or in person (where possible), and focused entirely on your unique context and questions. Some clients prefer booking session by session, which is $150 per session. However, others want to meet regularly over time. Booking multiple sessions at once provides a reduced rate per session. Please note this service is not covered by insurance.

SessionsRateBest for…
3$375Focused challenge
8$1000Steady Growth
12$1500Deep transformation

Begin the Conversation

If you’re feeling disconnected—or simply ready to think more deeply—I invite you to reach out.

Let’s Get Started:

1. Book a 15-minute Alignment Call
A brief conversation to see if philosophical counseling is right for you and answer any questions.

2. Review and Sign the Consent Form
Understand the scope, boundaries, and confidentiality of our work together.

3. Complete a Short Intake Form
Share your questions and context so sessions can be tailored to you.

4. Schedule Your First Session
Once we’re aligned and consent is complete, pick a time for your first 50-minute session.

Schedule a call

Frequently Asked Questions

Starting something new can raise questions—that’s completely normal. Below are answers to the questions most people ask before their first session. If you don’t see what you’re wondering about, feel free to reach out—I’m happy to help.

What is philosophical counseling, and how is it different from therapy or coaching?

Philosophical counseling is a conversation grounded in reflection and inquiry. It’s not about diagnosing problems or offering quick fixes. Instead, it creates space to explore your values, beliefs, and the deeper questions shaping your life.

Unlike therapy, philosophical counseling doesn’t treat mental illness or work within a medical model. And while it shares similarities with coaching, it isn’t about setting goals or maximizing performance. Instead, it helps you think more clearly, examine assumptions, and find meaning so you can live and lead with greater alignment.

Is philosophical counseling right for me, and do I need any background in philosophy?

If you’ve been wrestling with questions of purpose, meaning, or direction, philosophical counseling may be a good fit. You don’t need to be a philosopher or a leader to benefit—anyone who wants to step back and reflect more deeply on their life can. Philosophical counseling isn’t about technical jargon or abstract debates—it’s about your lived experience. Curiosity, reflection, and a willingness to slow down and think deeply are all you need. Philosophy provides the tools, but you bring the substance: your life, your choices, and your questions.

What happens in a typical session?

Each session is 50 minutes and focused entirely on your context and questions. I’ll listen carefully, ask clarifying questions, and introduce philosophical perspectives where helpful. Some clients come with a specific issue to explore; others want an ongoing space to think more openly. You set the direction, and together we create a conversation that helps you discover new clarity.

How often should I meet?

There’s no strict rule. Some clients benefit from a single session to explore a pressing question, while others schedule regular sessions to build ongoing clarity and perspective. We can discuss what frequency feels right for you, but I recommend at least once a month.

Is it confidential?

Yes. All sessions are private. Anything you share remains between us, providing a safe space for honest reflection and dialogue—unless there is reason to believe that you or someone else may be at risk of harm, in which case I am required to take appropriate action.

What outcomes can I expect?

While outcomes vary, many clients gain greater clarity, perspective, and alignment with their values. You may also feel more confident in decision-making, better able to navigate complexity, or simply more thoughtful and grounded in your approach to life.

Do I need to prepare anything for a session?

No preparation is required for your first session. Just come with your questions, curiosity, and willingness to explore. Occasionally, we may discuss a text or I might suggest a short reflection or exercise to complete before a future session, but these are entirely optional and meant to deepen your experience.


Additional Resources:

How Philosophy Can Help with Burnout in Fast Company by Michael Spicher and Tony Martignetti
APPA Code of Ethics
When Philosophers Become Therapists in The New Yorker

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