Gina L. Norman, CASD

Hi there, I'm Gina, a counselor, spiritual director, and fellow traveler on the path of healing and recovery.

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If you're here, you might be feeling like you don't quite fit in, like your sensitivity is too much for the world, or like you're searching for something deeper than what traditional approaches offer. I see you, and I want you to know: you belong here.

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As a trauma survivor, a highly sensitive person, and an emapath, I understand the unique challenges of navigating a world that often feels too loud, too harsh, or too disconnected from what truly matters. Your sensitivity isn't a flaw. It's a gift, and my work centers on helping you discover the beauty and strength in who you are.

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What I Offer: Integrative Spiritual Care​

I provide trauma-informed counseling and spiritual direction for individuals who are highly sensitive, recovering from spiritual abuse, or healing from trauma. I work with clients in Minneapolis and online throughout the United States.
 

I believe healing happens in relationships: with yourself, with others, and the world around you. My integrative approach weaves together:
 

• Contemplative practices rooted in ancient wisdom traditions

• Trauma-informed care that honors your nervous system and lived experience

• Inclusive spirituality that welcomes all identities, orientations, and expressions, including LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC individuals

• Gentle, compassionate, attuned presence that creates safety for your most tender part

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My Story: From Suffering to Service​

Almost two decades ago, during a season of physical pain and forced stillness, I discovered contemplation and the mystics. Henri Nouwen's words became my anchor: "We are not what we do, we are not what we have, and we are not what other people say we are."

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This truth transformed everything. I learned that simply being human gives us inherent value and worth - not anything we can or can't do.

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As an abuse survivor who has navigated significant trauma, I know what it's like to feel unsafe in the world. This lived experience, combined with my professional training, allows me to create the kind of sacred, secure space I once desperately needed.

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My Professional Training & Credentials

• 14+ years of counseling experience

• Spiritual Direction Graduate, San Francisco Theological Seminary (2022), a program recognized for its inclusive, affirming approach

• 5+ years actively seeing spiritual direction clients

• 150+ individuals supported through counseling and spiritual direction

• Currently pursuing trauma-informed care certification  

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I chose San Francisco Theological Seminary because of their inclusive approach, supporting LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities is essential to my practice. I believe everyone deserves to experience the sacred without judgment or exclusion.

 

What to Expect Working with Me
Clients often describe our sessions as feeling like a retreat. I create spaces where your whole self, your pain, your joy, your questions, your faith, is welcomed and affirmed.

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When you work with me, you can expect:

• Gentle presence that honors your pace and never rushes your process

• Trauma-informed awareness that prioritizes your nervous system and emotional safety

• Spiritual exploration that respects your unique path and doesn't impose a tradition

• Practical tools for daily life, nervous system regulation, and personal authentic growth

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A Little More About Me​​

When I'm not in session, you'll find me exploring Minneapolis coffee shops (I recently moved from Oakland!), art journaling, or working on my first book about navigating life's gray areas. I have a 31-year-old daughter living in Oakland, CA. I  live with my partner, Kevin, of 24 years, and our 5-year-old bichon-poo, Benson.

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I believe in practicing what I offer - I see my own counselor and spiritual director because I know the profound value of this work, both personally and professionally.

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Ready to Begin?​

If you're feeling called to explore counseling, spiritual direction, or begin trauma-informed healing work, I'd be honored to accompany you on this journey. Your story matters, your healing matters, and you deserve to experience the fullness of who you're meant to be.

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"The most important thing you can offer a person is your presence and undivided attention."