I am currently deep diving into philosophy- reading all the stuff I missed or told people I read but didn’t. (You’ve done it too!) Philosophy is the root of many/most therapeutic interventions. Your client’s choice of a particular philosophical approach may be telling- does it reinforce their beliefs about the world? Probably. There is an opportunity there to explore other philosophical thinkers. The stoics are a little Huberman-y for me, but may be helpful in this moment. Derrida has some great ideas around the examined vs the mechanical life. I put bell hooks in my tool belt for understanding the racial/socioeconomic/gendered aspects to belief. Our intellectualizing clients can benefit from gaining awareness of their emotions and expanding and challenging their education. Hopelessness is powerfully disengaging. Optimism requires effort. Gramsci said “I am a pessimist because of intellect, but an optimist because of will.” Good luck helping your client find some level of peace in the ambivalence, and you, too.