Hi there, I’m A.J. Drenth. I’m the founder and owner of Personality Junkie and author of four personality books, including two books on INTPs. I’m gradually pecking away on another book about creative Introverts.
But like other INTPs, my life has not been all roses. Now in my late forties, I’ve been around the block a few times with struggles pertaining to work and career, sex and relationships, religion and philosophy, compulsive / addictive behaviors, impostor syndrome, midlife issues, and the ongoing search for meaning, purpose, and identity. There were a number of times when I hit rock bottom and felt there was no path forward for me, no hope for future meaning. But in each case, some combination of surrender, providence, and willfulness raised me from the ashes, restored my hope, and helped me renew my vision.
And while I certainly can’t claim to have worked out all of these issues to perfection (I see growth as a lifelong process), I can fortunately say that, despite being an INTP in the throes of midlife challenges, I feel hopeful and optimistic about the future.
Much of my midlife struggle involved searching for better ways of integrating Introverted Thinking (Ti) and Extraverted Feeling (Fe). I was growing tired of sitting behind a computer all day and then trying to connect with people in social contexts that felt artificial and disconnected from my intellectual pursuits. I wanted to find a way of combining my interests in psychology and philosophy, my knowledge and experiences as an INTP, and my desire to help and engage with people in a more meaningful way. Eventually, it became evident that “coaching” (I use this word reluctantly) should be the next step in my INTP journey.
What I Can Offer INTPs
I know from experience that INTPs typically don’t want to be “coached” per se. We’re too damn stubborn and independent for that. What we want is to be sure we’re not missing something in our own analysis or to experiment with new ideas, perspectives, and approaches when we feel stuck. There may also be times when we simply want a sort of “sounding board” for the ideas or plans we’ve been contemplating. We’re curious about how a like-minded person might respond or help further clarify them.
If you’ve resonated with my work and would like to discuss something you’re wrestling with, I encourage you to complete the form below. Since I’m not a licensed therapist, if you’re struggling with severe anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues please contact a medical or mental health professional.
While I’m open to discussing a variety of INTP-related concerns, please don’t contact me if you’re primarily interested in identifying your personality type. For that purpose, I encourage you to consult our online articles and Type Clarifier tests.
Here are some examples of the types of issues I work with:
- Clarifying identity / purpose: core values, priorities, interests, life purpose, etc.
- Choosing a career or major
- Philosophical / religious / moral concerns
- Problems of meaning / motivation: addressing nihilism, addictive / compulsive behaviors, narcissism
- Intrinsic rewards vs. status, success, achievement, etc.
- Balancing work & life / relationships
- Men’s issues: sexual performance, porn, monogamy vs. non-monogamy
- Integrating your Feeling (F) function / feminine side
- Midlife transitions: meaning in midlife, career transitions
The cost of each 50-minute session is $75. Additional payment details will be included in follow-up correspondence.
Let’s Connect
To help me determine if I’m a good fit for what you’re seeking, please fully complete the form below. I typically respond within 3 days.
