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Spiritual Direction Goes By Many Names.
While it is a very old practice it has also be interpreted and contextualized freshly by each new generation and culture. It is always a practice of presence and done in relationship with God.
Spiritual direction provides an “address” on the house of your life so that you can be “addressed” by God in prayer. When this happens, your life begins to be transformed in ways you hadn’t planned or counted on, for God works in wonderful and surprising ways.
— Henri Nouwen, Spiritual Direction: Wisdom for the Long Walk of Faith
If you are ready to book a spiritual direction session you can schedule a free consultation by clicking “Book now” below
Is Spiritual Direction New To You?
Or maybe you just have a few frequently asked questions? The FAQ below should be a great place to start but you can also learn more about what a director does by going to my article here.
What Happens In A Spiritual Direction Session?
Sessions are typically 1 hour long and happen either in person or virtually depending on the needs of the directee. In my practice I prioritize accessibility to those with physical and neurological disabilities so part of the consultation process will be discerning together which location or appointment style will serve you best. Spiritual direction sessions are by nature individualized so every session looks a little bit different, but they typically include exploratory conversations, time to learn about spiritual disciplines and time spent in prayer. As a spiritual director I am trained in giving directee’s tools to connect with God through contemplative practices such as different ways of praying, interacting with scripture, and other practices to deepen their relationship with God, self, and others.
Who Is Spiritual Direction For?
In short, S.D is for anyone who values spirituality or is searching for answers outside of the material world. Wether you are newly exploring a belief in God, looking for ways to go deeper in your current faith or finding yourself burnt out and hitting the “wall,” a Spiritual Director can help walk with, support and equip you.
My practice is open to others outside of my faith and who may hold differing theological perspectives…in fact, I welcome it! But, it is important for any potential directee to know that my operating framework is concretely through the lens of Christianity.
How Much Does Spiritual Direction Cost?
My current hourly rate is 45.00. I offer student discounts and attempt to open my calendar to as much free consultations as possible. I never want cost to be a barrier to those in need of direction and so, while I am able, I also offer my services as “pay what you can.”
Are The Sessions Confidential?
Yes! I know that confidentiality and privacy are key to allowing people to enter into a thriving relationship with a Director. If for some reason there is a conflict of interest, such a mutual relationships or situations you would need to discuss where I can not be objective and unbiased, I will let you know and help you find another director. I do not take notes or keep records of our sessions. However, as part of my commitment to an ethical practice, I do submit myself to peer supervision and will share un-identifying details of our sessions with supervisors with my directee’s consent.
Is Spiritual Direction The Same As Counselling or Pastoral Care?
No…but sometimes there is some overlap.
Spiritual Direction does not replace mental health services or therapies. This is why we typically meet once a month and not more regularly, because if an urgent or crisis based appointment is needed it already is time for me to take off my “Director” hat. Some Directors have counselling training and are even registered psychologist or practicing chaplains, some, like myself come from pastoral ministry and have been trained in crisis intervention. There will likely be overlap in the topics you discuss with your Director, Pastor and Mental Health Practitioner but a key difference in a spiritual direction session is that we are primarily following the voice of the Holy Spirit.
Because of my background in Pastoral care and my role within the School of Women in Ministry I will happily provide education and resources both in and outside of the Church community…in fact teaching can be my default! But in our direction sessions, I will work hard to spend more time listening and guiding you towards God’s voice through spiritual practices (like a spiritual midwife) rather than telling you what to do or diagnosing you.