FAQs

Q: How can Spiritual Direction & Companioning help me in my day-to-day life?

A: In a huge variety of ways....one being learning the wisdom of not taking our imagination literally and reflecting upon the deeper meaning of the images and symbols that emerge and unfold for us (in dreams and in life itself). Another is possibly looking at the "how" as well as the "why" of faith, perhaps learning to live with (and potentially embrace) the paradoxes, ambiguities and just "not-knowings" in our lives.

Q: Do I need to have a specific religious or spiritual background to benefit from Spiritual Direction & Companioning?

A: Spiritual Direction & Companioning is appropriate for people from all faith traditions, people who are unsure or thinking about changing directions in their spiritual quest. It is also appropriate for people with no faith tradition in their past or experience. One only needs to be a seeker, quester or filled with curiosity.

Q: How does Spiritual Direction & Companioning work?

A: Spiritual Direction & Companioning is usually done in a one-to-one format, and is a gentler, "softer" process then psychological therapy or counseling. The focus is on experience, religious and/or spiritual, and tends to be a gentle unfolding process. We could say....connecting & integrating your inner and outer worlds....your faith in action!

Q: Do you see a difference between religious and spiritual?

A: Good question! There probably are as many answers as there are people asking the question. I tend to see religion as being a more "formalized container" and spirituality as the process. I also don't see it necessarily as an either/or; it can also be a both/and.

Q: Will you tell me what to do?

A: This is your process and journey. I may occasionally invite you and/or make a gentle suggestion of books to read, journaling, art work and so on. My work is to listen deeply and with reverence as you pioneer and explore your faith journey.

Q: What typically happens in a Spiritual Direction & Companioning session?

A: You are the one in charge of the Spiritual Direction & Companioning process. The sessions will be tailored to what works best for you. For example, we could start and end with a period of silence, have prayer or have ritual (light candles, etc.). During the session, you could share your journaling or poetry, share your art work, share your life experiences (past and present), and even share your dreams (both your sleeping dreams and your awake, “I-want-to” dreams). This is your journey, dear friend…you are the designer and the architect.

Q: What kinds of Spiritual Direction & Companioning sessions do you offer?

A: Spiritual Direction & Companioning is really quite flexible and adaptable. We can explore your spiritual quest in person, with face-to-face sessions if practical, or over the telephone or by e-mail. We can also use a combination of all of these processes. It really depends on what works best for you.

Q: How often should the sessions be?

A: Spiritual Direction & Companioning sessions are traditionally once a month. Occasionally, when life gets “lumpy,” you might want to schedule a bit more often. It is your process. You get to decide what you need to do for your spiritual health and well-being.

Q: How much do the sessions cost?

A: I work on a sliding scale, from $20 to $80 per hour, dependent on your income. You are the one to figure out the fee that works for you. I am willing to work with you if adjustments need to be made. As this is a collaborative and companioning process, all you have to do is ask.

Q: How do I get started?

A: Getting started is making the first call, e-mail contact or face-to-face session. We then work in collaboration to figure out the details on what works best for you.