Philosophy May Help

[DISCLAIMER]

As Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) is informed by Stoic philosophy, this blog entry is part of an ongoing series regarding a book entitled The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living by Ryan Holiday and Stephen Hanselman.

The authors quote ancient Stoic philosopher Seneca who stated, “The person who has practiced philosophy as a cure for the self becomes great of soul, filled with confidence, invincible—and greater as you draw near” (page 232). In this regard, one source states:

Philosophy (from Ancient Greek philosophía lit. ‘love of wisdom’) is a systematic study of general and fundamental questions concerning topics like existence, knowledge, mind, reason, language, and value. It is a rational and critical inquiry that reflects on its methods and assumptions.

REBT is founded on a number of philosophical principles, such as those stemming from humanism, Epicureanism, hedonism, existentialism, feminism, and Stoicism. Of note, I disavow some of these philosophies (e.g., feminism) while daily practicing others (e.g., Stoicism).

In any event, I’ve discovered that some clients with whom I’ve worked have expressed surprise when learning that philosophy – not strict tenets of the mental, emotional, and behavioral health (collectively “mental health”) industry – are what I advocate. Yet, this is the way of REBT.

“What am I paying you for, if I can instead just read a philosophy book?” I imagine a cynically-thinking client wondering. Regarding this matter, authors of The Daily Stoic state (page 232):

What is “a cure for the self”? Perhaps Seneca means that, through nature and nurture, we develop a unique set of characteristics—some positive and some negative. When those negative characteristics begin to have consequences in our lives, some of us turn to therapy, psychoanalysis, or the help of a support group. The point? To cure certain selfish, destructive parts of ourselves.

I reject the notion of mental health care as a “cure” (recovery or relief from a disease). Much of what I do when working with clients is dedicated to helping people become more resilient, despite whatever issues they face. After all, REBT is a transdiagnostic approach to well-being.

Although it’s accurate that I can diagnose, treat, or manage symptoms of mental disorders (formerly “mental illness”) I’m not in the business of curing anything. Aside from this relatively minor quibble, authors of The Daily Stoic continue (page 232):

But of all the avenues for curing our negative characteristics, philosophy has existed the longest and helped the most people. It is concerned not just with mitigating the effects of a mental illness or a neurosis, but it is designed to encourage human flourishing. It’s designed to help you live the Good Life.

I don’t argue with the notion that “philosophy has existed the longest and helped the most people.” Still, I maintain that REBT and philosophical practice aren’t mutually exclusive. Nevertheless, authors of The Daily Stoic conclude (page 232):

Don’t you deserve to flourish? Wouldn’t you like to be great of soul, filled with confidence, and invincible to external events? Wouldn’t you like to be like the proverbial onion, packed with layers of greatness? Then practice your philosophy.

I would add that not merely practicing philosophy can help people to reduce self-distress and self-disturbance, though daily practice is needed to effectively do so. This includes reading books or blogs, watching videos, scheduling mental health sessions with me, or otherwise.

Philosophy may help. If this means you simply choose to read a philosophy book, forgoing formal mental health services, then so be it. Building resilience is the takeaway, as, with little doubt, you will face challenges in your life. Remaining resilient during those times may help.

If you’re looking for a provider who tries to work to help understand how thinking impacts physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral elements of your life—helping you to sharpen your critical thinking skills, I invite you to reach out today by using the contact widget on my website.

As a psychotherapist, I’m pleased to try to help people with an assortment of issues ranging from anger (hostility, rage, and aggression) to relational issues, adjustment matters, trauma experience, justice involvement, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety and depression, and other mood or personality-related matters.

At Hollings Therapy, LLC, serving all of Texas, I aim to treat clients with dignity and respect while offering a multi-lensed approach to the practice of psychotherapy and life coaching. My mission includes: Prioritizing the cognitive and emotive needs of clients, an overall reduction in client suffering, and supporting sustainable growth for the clients I serve. Rather than simply trying to help you to feel better, I want to try to help you get better!

Deric Hollings, LPC, LCSW

Photo credit (edited), Designed by Freepik, fair use

References:

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