The College of Stoic Philosophers Podcast CoSP Pod. Ep. 9: Dr. Bill Bell on Stoic Psychotherapy
Feb 23, 2025
Dr. Bill Bell, a psychotherapist from San Francisco, integrates Stoicism into his therapy approach. He discusses the vital role of Stoic principles in modern mental health, showcasing how they benefit emotional regulation and personal motivation. The conversation touches on the fascinating intertwining of Greek mythology with psychotherapy, revealing how these ancient stories can illuminate the healing process. Bill also shares insights on navigating the stresses of new fatherhood through Stoic practices, offering practical advice for finding balance in today's fast-paced world.
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Stoicism and Psychotherapy
- Dr. Bill Bell, a cognitive behavioral therapist, connects Stoicism to psychotherapy.
- He explains how Stoic principles like the disciplines of assent, desire, and action align with cognitive therapy models.
Mythology in Therapy
- Bill uses Greek mythology, like the demigod children of Asclepius (god of healing), to illustrate therapeutic processes.
- He connects these figures to diagnosis, remedy, curing, and recuperation in therapy.
Guiding Clients to Flourishing
- Help clients find their "eudaimonia" (flourishing) by focusing on internal goodness, not external pursuits.
- Use Aristotle's concept of "final cause" to explore their ultimate purpose and meaning.
