Socratic Dialogue / Philosophical Inquiry

Van Deurzen was deeply influenced by Plato and Socrates. Therapy in her understanding is a joint philosophical inquiry, a dialogue of two people trying to make sense of what is right, what is true, what is important. The therapist takes the position of sincere not-knowing — not an expert with answers, but a "midwife of thought" (after Socrates). Direct clarifying questions, an honest pointing-out of contradictions, joint thinking — the main tools of this approach.

Step-by-step guide

1. Take the position of sincere not-knowing: the therapist does not know the answer in advance — they honestly inquire together with the client
2. Ask clarifying questions that help the client clarify their own thought
3. When needed — point to contradictions in the client's words directly and without judgment
4. Jointly inquire into the consequences of a belief or choice: "If this is so, what follows from it?"
5. Arrive at a clearer, more considered understanding — not at a "correct answer", but at greater transparency for the client themselves

When to use

• When working with beliefs, values, moral dilemmas
• When working with intellectually oriented clients
• When the client gets stuck in circular reasoning
• When the client declares a belief without noticing its inner contradictions
• When working with sedimented beliefs and worldview

Key phrases

Follow-up questions

Alternative phrasings