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Spiritual directors are described mostly in metaphorical terms, as midwives of the soul, as holy listeners, as mystigogues or teachers of the mystery. Perhaps this is because it is difficult to put into clear, concise language what exactly happens during a spiritual direction session. Most people come to spiritual direction because they want a guide or a companion on their spiritual journey. They may want assistance with their prayer life, they may want help discerning God’s voice regarding a possible change in their life, or they may simply want someone who will help keep them accountable in their faith walk. Whatever the reason, spiritual direction has a long Biblical tradition. In the past, it was often clergy or celibates who sought spiritual direction. More recently, lay people have experienced the life-changing benefits of spiritual direction. I trained to become a spiritual director with Sursum Corda, a two-year training program. After completing this program, I continued to follow my interest in how people are formed spiritually and pursued a Doctorate in Ministry in Spiritual Formation from the Graduate Theological Foundation in South Bend, Indiana. I have taught in two spiritual direction training programs, my specialty being the psychological aspects of spiritual formation. I am available as a spiritual director. This is different from therapy in that it is not problem focused. The focus in spiritual direction is on your relationship with the Holy and how that is evolving in you. I will give you the gift of sacred space and time, listening ears, a discerning heart, acceptance, and encouragement for your journey. Please note, if you need or desire therapy, and still want your spiritual life to be a part of the therapeutic process, I am totally open to incorporating that into the therapy process. I do not believe the two disciplines have to be separated. However, they can be separated for those who are explicitly seeking spiritual direction and not therapy. |
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