A systematic inquiry into the client's value system: what they consider important, what they actually realize in life, where there is a gap between the declared and the real. The aim: to uncover conflicts of values that generate noögenic neurosis, and to find a path to coherence. Not a moral evaluation, but a map of meaningful orientations.
Step-by-step guide
- Ask the client to name 5–7 things that are important to them in life.
- Explore each: "How does this show up in your real life today?"
- Find the gaps: declared values vs. actual behavior.
- Explore the conflicts between values: what happens when they contradict each other.
- Together with the client find a value that can serve as an orientation point in the crisis.
When to use
- Noögenic neurosis (conflict of values as a source of symptoms)
- Existential crisis, loss of orientation
- Work with perfectionism and high standards
- Transitional periods of life
Key phrases
What is important to you in life? Name a few things.
Follow-up questions
How does this show up in your life right now?
If you had to choose one value that guides you in this situation — what would it be?
Alternative phrasings
Is there something you consider important but hardly do? What gets in the way?
Warnings
- ⚠️ Do not evaluate the client's values — the therapist is axiologically neutral.
- ⚠️ Do not hand out a "list of right values" — they must be authentic.
- ⚠️ Logo-analysis is not a test and not a questionnaire: it is a living dialogue.
Materials are informational and educational and summarize publicly available scientific sources. They are not medical or psychological advice, are not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment, and do not replace consultation with a qualified professional.