Spiritual Direction And Soul Care Options

"The soul of a human is like that of a wild animal. An animal will hide in its cave until it feels there is no threat on the outside. Once that animal knows they are safe, they will make their way out of the cave, slowly." Parker Palmer Most of us can relate to this timeless quote. Finding people we feel safe with is challenging. We are precious beings and when we aren't treated the way we should be, we tend to shut down. We especially find it difficult to find someone that will truly listen to us. This is why I became a Spiritual Director, because I think you're worth listening to. SO WHAT IS A SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR? A spiritual director is a trained and experienced individual who provides guidance and support to people on their spiritual journey. They are like companions who help individuals explore their relationship with the divine, discover their inner selves, and deepen their spiritual awareness. Here are a few ways we help: 1. Support and Guidance: Spiritual directors offer a safe and confidential space for individuals to discuss their spiritual experiences, questions, and challenges. We provide guidance and support without imposing their beliefs on the person they are assisting. 2. Listening and Reflection: We are skilled listeners who help individuals reflect on their experiences, beliefs, and emotions. Through deep listening and thoughtful questioning, we assist people in gaining clarity and insight into their spiritual path. 3.Respect for Diversity: Spiritual directors respect the diverse beliefs and backgrounds of their clients. We are inclusive and are not affliated with any one denomination. We do not promote a specific religious tradition or agenda but rather help individuals explore their own unique spirituality. 4. Help with Discernment: Spiritual directors can assist individuals in making important life decisions in alignment with their spiritual values and beliefs. This process is often called discernment. 5. Training and Qualifications: Many spiritual directors undergo formal training and may have certifications or credentials in spiritual direction. They often have a strong foundation in psychology, theology, or counseling, which equips them to provide effective guidance. 6.Religious and Non-Religious Contexts: While spiritual directors are commonly associated with religious contexts, they can also work with individuals who identify as spiritual but not necessarily religious. Their focus is on the individual's inner journey and spiritual growth. 7. Confidentiality: Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of spiritual direction. Clients can trust that what they share with their spiritual director will remain confidential. Humans, like animals in their cave, want to know if it's safe to come out. People will know they are safe if they are embraced with reflective listening, understanding, empathy, and compassion. I thrive when I can cultivate this kind of space for others. There is all the room in the world for different modalities of healing, I've used a lot of them in my healing journey. Yet, sometimes we don't want to focus on being fixed. Sometimes we are tired of being told who we are and what to do by someone else. This is where Spiritual Direction comes in. Folks seem to be looking for spaces to be fully themselves, share their deepest longings, and feel accepted doing so. Spiritual Direction is a place to be listened to and a place to listen. A place to listen to self and Spirit together. In individual spiritual direction, you will be working with me one on one. Usually, sessions take place once a month, but I quite like twice a month. As a guide, I help the truths you have within yourself to become more clear. Sessions are fluid, there is never a sense of "fixed" or rote. Yet, somehow, clients walk away feeling better and accomplished. I have been told a session with me is like being on a retreat! Or that I'm like the Barbara Walters of therapy! There is an option to schedule an exploratory session before committing. It's a good way to find out more information from me personally and to ultimately see if we are a good fit. I can't wait to meet you! "The purpose of spiritual direction is to dig beneath the surface of your life, to get behind the facade of conventional gestures and attitudes which you present to the world, and to bring out your inner spiritual freedom, your inmost truth." Thomas Merton