What Is Spiritual Direction?

Understanding Pastoral Care versus Christian Counseling

Praying together.

After over 17 years of helping people heal from addictions and negative behaviors, I could have continued to offer therapy and counseling. Instead, I'm following the path of spiritual direction, working with others on their discernment of God's call for them.

I often get asked about the difference between spiritual directors and Christian therapists, so I wanted to offer a couple of points.

Attention is Focused on Spiritual Formation

I have clinical experience with people who lived with anxiety, depression, addictions, and more -- while these issues have spiritual aspects, there are also other potential root causes. Broken relationships, unhealed trauma, and unhealthy coping mechanisms can play a role.

In spiritual direction, instead of having a wide view, we focus on spiritual formation. Where is God, here and now, and how can I better hear Him and allow Him to act in my life?

The Experience is a Conversation on Faith and Prayer

To answer questions about your religious experience, we root our meetings in faith and prayer. We begin with prayer. We talk about your day-to-day interior life. You share your spiritual practices and sense of God.

Ultimately, how can you deepen your faith and your prayer life?

Companions Walk With You, Rather than Diagnose

Having a spiritual companion share these conversations with you can help you in your discernment of God's will. They aren't there to diagnose you or treat symptoms. That would be a conversation with a therapist or psychiatrist -- hopefully working together with Jesus the Healer.

With my background in marriage and family therapy, and my experience as a Third (Lay) Order Franciscan, I can meet spiritual seekers where you are and focus on the needs of your spiritual life now.