What is Thomistic Philosophical Guidance (TPG)? 

TPG is a form of philosophical life-guidance based on the anthropological teachings of St. Thomas Aquinas. In philosophical exchange, we offer guidance to individuals struggling with aspects in their lives related to philosophical topics: the ordering of emotions, the practice of virtue, and discerning life changing decisions. We believe that most of our obstacles in daily life are subject to philosophical reflections. This is precisely why we believe we can offer practical insights as to how to live a more fulfilled, happy life.

What makes TPG unique is that it heavily relies on the anthropological framework of St. Thomas Aquinas to offer practical insights. Whereas contemporary philosophical discourse is often based on an ambiguous view of human nature, TPG holds that man is a “rational animal” as taught by St. Thomas Aquinas and many great thinkers since the time of Aristotle. This basic understanding of man allows TPG to offer practical insights to individuals that most contemporary philosophers may not. We believe TPG is a solution to the confusing relativistic philosophies that are all too prevalent in the modern world. We hold, like St. Thomas did, that people can find clarity in truth.

What does a TPG session look like? 

Sessions are approximately 50 minutes in length, and consist of an opportunity for individuals to reflect on a personal struggle, concern, or question with the accompaniment of a Thomistic Philosophical Guide. The philosopher is there, first and foremost, to listen to the individual and clarify personal struggles or questions. This active listening can provide a cathartic experience for the individual. Giving individuals a space to elaborate their own thoughts out loud, and hear themselves articulate their thoughts, is one of the most efficient ways to “know yourself” as Socrates prescribed. Only after listening will TPG offer guidance and suggestions to aid the individual in contemplating their situation as St. Thomas might have. The role of the philosopher is to participate in a dialogue with the individual, not lecture on St. Thomas’ philosophical teaching. The purpose of relying on St. Thomas’ teaching is to offer practical advice as needed and guide the discussion with his wisdom. St. Thomas is used as a third interlocutor to discuss with, and as any good interlocutor, he avoids making the discussion a monologue about himself. The aim is to find clarity in individual struggles through the wisdom of St. Thomas.

Who is St. Thomas Aquinas? 

St. Thomas Aquinas was a philosopher from the 13th Century who maintains influence in philosophy to the present day. He was a Dominican friar who is commonly known for “Christianizing Aristotle.” Whereas prior Christian philosophers had never fully delved into Aristotle’s metaphysics, St. Thomas was the first to systematically study Aristotelian philosophy. The result? The zenith of Christian philosophy that brought together the best of Greek philosophy and prior Chrisitan philosophy. For this reason, Thomism is frequently called the “perennial philosophy” of the West, as it is a development of the best ancient and medieval thinkers that continues to be studied in the 21st Century. 

The practical wisdom of St. Thomas also stems from the fact that he is a revered saint within the Catholic Church. For St. Thomas, philosophy is not empty words or merely theoretical speculations; it is a way of life. A way of life that led him to find peace and joy and inspired others to recognize him as a “holy man.” His writings offer us many insights as to how he obtained this peace and joy, and TPG aims at sharing this with other people today. 

Is Thomistic Philosophical Guidance the same as psychological therapy? 

No. Any kind of philosophical coaching is always distinct from psychological therapy. Whereas therapists are licensed to practice therapy by state law, Thomistic Philosophical Guides are professional philosophers, experts in the teaching of St. Thomas Aquinas. A Thomistic Philosophical Guide is an “educator” for individuals to learn about how to better reflect and order their lives according to Thomistic Philosophy. If a Thomistic Philosophical Guide suspects a person needs psychological therapy, they will suggest this to the individual. 

Does TPG have advantages over psychological therapy?

We believe that the two are not comparable in advantages or disadvantages. We assert that they provide two different services for people. TPG is an aid to think clearly about your life with the goal to live it well. 

Do you have to be Christian or religious to have a TPG session? 

No. Any and all religious backgrounds are welcome. Religious faith is not required to participate in TPG, nor will it be assumed by the philosophical coach. Insofar as St. Thomas offers philosophical insights (not just theological insights), TPC offers a richness of guidance for people of all faiths. St. Thomas Aquinas himself was a Catholic medieval monk, but his philosophical teachings relate to “natural truths,” applicable to all individuals regardless of background. 

Can a TPC session provide spiritual guidance as well? 

Yes, if a participant wishes to relate the teachings to their own spirituality; as St. Thomas’ anthropology holds a holistic view of man. St. Thomas affirms that man’s physical body and spiritual soul are equally necessary principles of man’s essence. Therefore, St. Thomas can offer great insights about man’s spiritual dimension. Nevertheless, TPG is always tailored to the needs of each individual and not every person is necessarily in need of spiritual guidance. The goal is to provide support for individuals with practical philosophical insights and a listening ear. 

Can I discuss God in a TPG session? 

Yes. The discussion of spiritual topics, such as the existence of God, man’s relationship to God, or divine Providence would all be welcome topics in TPG that can garner insights from St. Thomas’ teachings. This is one of the many aspects that TPG distinguishes itself from other forms of philosophical guidance. Whereas many philosophers today may shy away from speaking about God, TPG is able to discuss and offer reflections on God’s existence and what this means for man’s life according to St. Thomas. Again, the discussion does not have to be centered in spiritual aspects of a person’s life, because the goal is to help the individual needs based on a person’s circumstances.

What if I resonate more with other philosophers instead of St. Thomas? 

Bringing in various philosophers into a session is one of the most enjoyable aspects of philosophy. TPG does not oblige any individual to follow the anthropological teaching of St. Thomas, but for the sake of clarity (which, we believe,  is not offered by many contemporary philosophers), this is the main philosopher relied on to inform the discussion and advice provided. The objective in any TPG session is to find clarity and peace with the help of St. Thomas, not to be convinced of Thomism. 

How much does a TPG session cost? 

The current cost of a 50 minute session is $90. Payment is made via Zelle or Venmo. A Zelle or Venmo request will be made after each session, and payment should be made within 24 hours of request.