Philosophical counseling offers a structured space for reflection when familiar ways of thinking no longer feel sufficient. It is 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.

This work engages with the history of philosophy—including ethics, aesthetics, political thought, and theories of judgment—to help individuals clarify how they understand what matters, what is at stake, and how they are oriented toward their lives and responsibilities.

It is not therapy, coaching, or treatment. Learning often occurs, but the focus is on forming judgment and insight rather than simply acquiring information.

Philosophical counseling attends to how meaning, judgment, and responsibility are already at work—often implicitly—and brings them into clearer view.

When this work is sought

Philosophical counseling is often sought during periods of:

• Professional or personal transition
• Ethical tension or moral uncertainty
• Conflict between values and action
• Loss of coherence, orientation, or direction
• A sense that existing frameworks no longer hold

Clients are not looking for answers in advance, but for a way to think more faithfully about their lived experience, identity, and how they engage the future.

How the work proceeds

Sessions take the form of sustained philosophical conversation. Michael listens closely for assumptions, patterns of judgment, and inherited ideas that shape how situations are perceived—and asks thoughtful questions that surface underlying perspectives. Drawing from philosophical traditions and contemporary thought, he illuminates conceptual, ethical, and existential conditions without imposing conclusions.

The work is exploratory rather than prescriptive, reflective rather than diagnostic. Insight emerges through careful attention to language, experience, and everyday life.

Relationship to other work. 

Philosophical counseling is distinct from Michael’s organizational advisory work and public research. While aesthetics advisory addresses collective judgment within institutions, philosophical counseling is private and individual in orientation. It engages philosophy not as an abstract theory, but as a living practice of reflection.

Practicalities 

Philosophical counseling is offered on a limited basis. 

Engagements are typically short- or medium- term and arranged directly. Conversations take place remotely. 

To begin, schedule a brief alignment call. During this conversation, we’ll explore whether philosophical counseling is a good fit and answer any questions about the process. If we decide to move forward, you’ll receive a consent form, an optional intake form, and details about scheduling and payment. Calls are conducted remotely and typically last 15 minutes.

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