ROLE OF ARISTOTELIAN ETHICS IN ENHANCING HOLISTIC COUNSELLING: A FUTURE-ORIENTED APPROACH

Abstract

In order to enhance general well-being, holistic counselling takes an integrative approach that addresses the relationship between the mind, body, and spirit. The importance of virtues like phronesis (practical knowledge), eudaimonia (human flourishing), and ethical character development is highlighted in this paper's exploration of the incorporation of Aristotelian virtue ethics into holistic counselling frameworks. The tenets of holistic counselling which encourage self-awareness, resilience, and moral decision-making are consistent with Aristotle's ethical philosophy which places an emphasis on moral virtues developed from consistent practice and informed by reason. This paper makes the argument that a virtue-based framework can improve the efficacy of holistic counselling by analysing Aristotle's philosophical contributions and their applicability to modern counselling techniques. Eudaimonia is the ultimate aim for psychological and personal development, whereas phronesis is used to help clients make morally sound decisions. Furthermore, in counselling techniques, Aristotle's Golden Mean which promotes equilibrium between extremes that offers a useful strategy for controlling emotions and encouraging self-regulation.