MARIA CAMILA CASTRO MALDONADO
MARIA CAMILA CASTRO MALDONADO
Philosophical counseling is a form of therapeutic practice, an alternative to psychological and psychotherapeutic consultation. It is a space for those who are looking for an open, respectful, non-hierarchical dialogue, for a space of true and patient listening where we address your difficulties but also your questions and desire for self-knowledge —not from a clinical or strict psychological perspective— but from an existential and philosophical one.
No previous experience is required. We are not “theorizing” in the scholarly sense; we theorize in the ancient sense: as a form of direct and attentive contemplation. This space is not about quoting or regurgitating what others have said, but about genuinely identifying one’s most pressing questions, how they show up in one’s life, and what one’s unique and personal answers to them are. I accompany you through your process of critical and emotional reflection on your way of thinking, living, and being in the world. In this understanding of philosophy our philosophical activity encompasses human being as a whole: its mind, body, and feelings. All these components have a place in our dialogue.
No previous experience is required. We are not “theorizing” in the scholarly sense; we theorize in the ancient sense: as a form of direct and attentive contemplation. This space is not about quoting or regurgitating what others have said, but about genuinely identifying one’s most pressing questions, how they show up in one’s life, and what one’s unique and personal answers to them are. I accompany you through your process of critical and emotional reflection on your way of thinking, living, and being in the world. In this understanding of philosophy our philosophical activity encompasses human being as a whole: its mind, body, and feelings. All these components have a place in our dialogue.
Why start a counseling process?
For some, the reason that brings them to philosophical consultation is a life challenge, but it is by no means necessary to have a “problem” to initiate a philosophical counseling process. Some people arrive because they are curious, have a desire to inquire, or long for understanding themselves, others, and the world.
How do we work?
Whether we are aware or not, each of us holds a philosophy of life that influences our way of thinking and acting. Often, our philosophy of life limits the way we perceive ourselves and the world, which prevents us from living an authentic and full life. As your philosophical counselor, I accompany your life journey through a profound revision and reflection about your daily life so you can become aware of the foundations of your behavior. In turn, this exploration opens the way to transforming those aspects which have been the sources of reflection and allow you to discover other and more genuine ways of being. Ultimately, the point is to savor your comprehensions during the course of the process and to relish who you truly are.
Wisdom-Based Philosophy
I was trained in the School of Wisdom-Based Philosophy (Escuela de Filosofia Sapiencial). Our understanding and practice of philosophy acknowledges that thought and life are inseparable. It spotlights the importance of philosophy for daily life, in its individual and social dimensions. Many traditions have considered philosophy an art of life, where philosophical reflection is not speculative, but rather a vital and transformative practice of wisdom that shapes a way of being
Where?
Online
Languages?
English and Spanish
Length?
1 hour
How Often?
Weekly or every other week
Interested in getting started? Contact me here.