As I have been working on (finally) bringing The Meaning Project Community to life, I’ve been taking a lot of deep dives into the history of my work – Viktor Frankl, Logotherapy, Ketamine & Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, and, of course, the Myers Briggs Typer Indicator. I’ve been using the MBTI since my early days as a therapist, nearly 30 years ago. And then, five or ten years ago, I went ahead and got certified and then master-certified in using it. I’ve used it quite a lot – but WHY? Here’s what I put together in answering that question for myself.
1. It Builds Self-Awareness
Many clients walk into counseling believing something is “wrong” with them.
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“Why do I need so much alone time?”
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“Why do I overthink everything?”
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“Why do I struggle with spontaneity?”
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“Why do I get frustrated when others aren’t logical?”
The MBTI framework gives language to differences in how people:
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Gain energy (Extraversion or Introversion)
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Process information (Sensing or Intuition)
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Make decisions (Thinking or Feeling)
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Approach structure (Judging or Perceiving)
Often, clients experience relief when they realize their patterns are preferences—not defects. Self-understanding reduces shame. And reduced shame creates space for growth.
2. It Strengthens the Counseling Relationship
When counselors understand a client’s preferences, sessions can become more effective.
Some clients appreciate:
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Clear structure and goals.
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Logical frameworks and problem-solving strategies.
Others respond more deeply to:
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Open-ended reflection.
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Emotional validation and relational processing.
The MBTI offers a lens that helps tailor communication and interventions. It’s not about boxing someone in—it’s about meeting them where they are.
3. It Reduces Conflict in Relationships
In couples or family counseling, personality differences are often mistaken for personal attacks.
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One partner prefers planning; the other prefers flexibility.
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One wants direct feedback; the other values harmony.
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One processes externally; the other internally.
When these differences are reframed as preferences rather than flaws, defensiveness decreases. Blame softens. Curiosity increases.
The MBTI can provide a neutral language that says, “We’re different—and that’s workable.”
4. It Supports Career and Life Direction Conversations
Burnout, dissatisfaction, and decision fatigue often stem from misalignment between personality preferences and environment.
When clients explore:
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What energizes them,
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How they naturally make decisions,
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What kind of structure they thrive in,
They often uncover why certain roles feel draining while others feel meaningful.
The conversation shifts from “What’s wrong with me?” to “What environments fit me best?”
That’s a powerful reframe.
5. It Encourages a Strength-Based Perspective
Mental health work should not only address dysfunction—it should highlight strengths.
The MBTI framework emphasizes:
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Natural tendencies,
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Unique contributions,
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Complementary differences,
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Personal growth rather than pathology.
It aligns beautifully with humanistic approaches that center dignity, agency, and meaning.
A Necessary Reminder
The MBTI is not:
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A clinical diagnosis.
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A measure of mental health.
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A rigid box that defines identity.
Personality exists on a spectrum. People grow and adapt. No assessment should limit possibility.
Used responsibly, however, it can serve as a conversation starter—a doorway into deeper self-awareness and healthier relationships.
Closing Reflection for the Week
This week, consider asking yourself:
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Where am I judging myself for something that may simply be a preference?
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Where might understanding someone else’s wiring reduce conflict?
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How could greater self-awareness lead to greater self-acceptance?
Mental health isn’t only about fixing what’s broken.
Sometimes, it’s about understanding what’s already there.
Wishing you clarity, compassion, and meaningful conversations this week.
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