Spiritual Direction
Learn to pay attention and respond to what God is doing within and around you
Where do you desire to notice God at work in your life?
Let’s meet together to practice being attentive to the Spirit, and to carry that awareness into the rest of your life
Discern questions of calling and vocation.
Engage grief, doubt or disappointment with God.
Explore new rhythms and practices for health and wholeness.
Prepare for a Sabbatical, from planning to return.
Tend your own soul as a leader in a church or faith-based organization.
Notice God’s presence in any other season of your life.
Schedule a Free Discovery Session to learn more.
“John’s heart for people and spiritual direction are evident in his thoughtfulness, kindness, and generosity. Each of our conversations has sparked in me a fresh awareness of God’s presence and activity, and for that I am profoundly grateful.”
— SM
Questions?
What is spiritual direction?
Spiritual direction is an ancient form of guidance, a prayerful and conversational way of looking at your life as the raw material for discerning the presence of God. The spiritual director does not direct so much as help you notice the indicators of God’s real and active presence and movement.
Its purpose is to help you discern God’s presence and purpose in the midst of your struggles and questions, and to cultivate that awareness in the rest of your life.
Credit: Sustainable Faith
How is spiritual direction different from counseling or coaching?
David Benner is a psychologist who also has practiced spiritual direction. He distinguishes between counseling and direction in this way:
Counseling and spiritual direction share some common features but differ in very important ways. The most important of these differences is that while counseling is problem-centered, spiritual direction is Spirit-centered.
Therapy is a valuable discipline, especially for those seeking growth and healing from trauma or disruptive relationships and events. I’ve benefitted from it, and will readily refer directees that way when I think it would be beneficial.
Coaching is focused more on personal or professional outcomes, helping individuals determine goals and action plans. Spiritual direction focuses more internally and on the present, as we listen together to how God wants to mature our souls, form our identity, and clarify our calling.
Do you only offer direction to pastors or ministry leaders?
In a word…no! I do often work with pastors and ministry leaders because of my experience doing that kind of work. However, I do not limit my practice as I find spiritual direction to be valuable for anyone who desires to experience the fullness of life that a good God offers.
What will our time together look like?
The goal of our time together is to be attentive to God, available to respond to how God might be leading. My favorite metaphor for spiritual direction is dancing, with an understanding that God is the music we are listening to together.
I like to begin with silence to orient ourselves to the time, and invite directees to initiate our conversation when ready. Often you will discern something to explore in that silence, or you may already have something in mind. When it helps, I am glad to ask questions. Every session will be different, though I will often suggest practices for us to explore together or between sessions.
How often do we meet?
The most typical rhythm is a monthly, 50 minute session. You may desire to meet more frequently or for a longer session periodically, and that is fine as long as we schedule in advance. If you would like to share an update or concern between sessions, you are welcome to email me or leave a voice mail.
Where do we meet?
I primarily offer direction via Zoom, though I do have limited availability to meet in person in the East Valley of the Phoenix area.
How do we get started?
Schedule a free discovery session to get acquainted and ask any questions you may have.
I have a different question.
You are welcome to contact me and ask whatever you like, or read a little more about me.
For directors, teams and organizations
Speaking and Workshops
I am available to travel for on-site intensives, workshops, and retreats for teams and individuals, or to speak with your church or organization.
Supervision for Spiritual Directors
I am training to offer supervision for other spiritual directors. This is an ongoing best practice for your continued personal and professional growth.