Christianity and Spiritual Direction: Understanding the Practice and Benefits

You might be asking deep questions about your life, your purpose, or where God is in the middle of all of it. Maybe you're seeking more than just sermons and small talk. You want to hear God’s voice again—or maybe for the first time—in a way that feels personal, grounded, and real.

This is where spiritual direction comes in.

Spiritual direction is an ancient and sacred practice—used for centuries across Christian and contemplative traditions—where one person accompanies another in listening for the movements of God. It's a confidential space where your doubts, prayers, longings, and joys are welcome.

If you’re looking for a new way to grow spiritually or deepen your faith, spiritual direction may be the path forward.

What Is Spiritual Direction?

Spiritual direction is not about being told what to believe. It's not therapy or religious advice. Instead, it's a sacred conversation with someone trained to walk with you as you pay attention to your inner life and to the presence of the divine.

Think of a spiritual director as a companion—someone who listens deeply, asks gentle questions, and helps you notice where God might already be showing up in your story. Together, you reflect on your experience, your faith, and your spiritual practice. It’s a space of grace, not judgment.

Why Might a Christian Seek Spiritual Direction?

For many Christians, spiritual direction becomes especially meaningful during times of transition, loss, calling, or spiritual dryness. Some arrive at this practice after years in church wondering, Is this all there is? Others come during a season of faith reconstruction, unsure what they still believe but sensing God hasn’t left them.

A spiritual director can walk with you as you:

Discern what’s next in your life
Recover from religious burnout
Deepen your prayer or contemplative practice
Explore new images of God and self
Heal from old wounds and open up to new freedom

In short, spiritual direction helps you hear the Holy Spirit in your everyday life—and trust that your journey matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to find a spiritual director from my denomination?
Not necessarily. While it’s important to feel safe and understood, many directors work across denominational lines. The goal is to find someone whose background and presence help you feel comfortable being fully yourself.

Can spiritual direction happen online?
Yes. Many spiritual directors meet with clients over Zoom or by phone. Some also meet in person, either in a private office or spiritual space. What matters most is that you feel at ease.

Is spiritual direction only for Christians?
Not at all. While many directors (like myself) come from a Christian background, spiritual direction is for anyone who is sincerely seeking God, meaning, or inner growth. People from all traditions—or no tradition—are welcome.

How often do sessions happen?
Most people meet with their spiritual director once a month. Some prefer more frequent sessions, especially in seasons of intensity or transition. You set the pace based on your needs.

You’re Invited Into the Journey

If you're longing for a deeper connection with God—or wondering what your spiritual life might look like beyond belief systems you’ve outgrown—spiritual direction offers a path of curiosity, courage, and hope.

You don’t have to navigate this alone. I'm here to walk with you.