Understanding Spiritual Direction: A New Journey
For a while now, I’ve been quietly building something alongside my other work – a spiritual direction practice. It’s official now: I’m listed with Spiritual Directors International, and I’m taking on new directees. I wanted to share a little about what that actually means, because I know “spiritual direction” isn’t a phrase everyone grew up hearing.
What is spiritual direction?
At its heart, spiritual direction is a practice of holy listening. It’s a regular, unhurried conversation (usually monthly) where someone sits with a director (me, in this case) and simply notices where God is present and active in their life. Not fixing anything. Not solving a problem. Just paying attention, together, to what’s already happening in the ordinary and extraordinary corners of a life.
People come to spiritual direction in every kind of season — some are wrestling with a call, some are grieving, some are in a stretch that feels spiritually dry, and some just want a regular space to reflect that isn’t about productivity or performance. There’s no agenda except to listen for God’s presence, wherever it shows up.
How is it different from pastoral counseling or coaching?
I get this question a lot, so let me try to draw the lines simply.
Pastoral counseling tends to be more clinical and goal-oriented. It often addresses specific struggles — anxiety, grief, relational conflict — with therapeutic tools and a treatment arc. It’s closer to therapy, just held within a faith framework.
Coaching is usually forward-facing and action-oriented. A coach helps you clarify a goal and build a plan to get there — think career transitions, launching something new, building better habits.
Spiritual direction isn’t really either of those. There’s no agenda to fix or plan to execute. It’s slower and less structured on purpose. A director isn’t there to advise or diagnose — the director is there to help a person notice, wonder, and listen. If counseling asks “what’s wrong and how do we address it,” and coaching asks “what do you want and how do we get there,” spiritual direction asks something quieter: “where is God, and what might this season be inviting you toward?”
It’s less about answers and more about presence and attention.
Why I’m doing this
Ministry has always been about walking alongside people for me – first with young people, now in a season that includes spiritual direction alongside my other work. Being a mother of four has shaped that too. I know what it is to be in a season that doesn’t look like growth on the outside, and to need someone who can sit with you in it rather than try to hurry you out of it.
If you’re curious
If any of this resonates and you’ve been wondering whether spiritual direction might be right for you, Spiritual Directors International has a searchable directory of directors all over the world – mine included, if you’re in the Dallas–Fort Worth area or looking to meet virtually.
I’m currently taking on new directees, and I’d love to talk with you. The first step is always just a conversation – no pressure, no commitment, just a chance to see if it feels like a good fit. You’re welcome to reach out anytime.