“Mind is a good servant and a poor master.”
– Unknown
FAQ
Do you offer spiritual direction to non-UUs?
Absolutely. Developing clarity, direction and spiritual practices that support a joyful, meaning-centered life is for everyone who is interested in this journey of the soul’s fulfillment.
Is this pastoral counseling?
Yes. And more. To some people, the distinction between pastoral counseling and spiritual direction is more important than it is to me. I see a continuum, rather than an “either/or” here. Almost all clergy offer some type of pastoral care – short term counseling focusing on specific issues. As I see it, spiritual direction includes and goes beyond that – although specific issues are very often the original impetus for beginning the work. Spiritual direction goes deeper. It explores whatever concerns are brought to light in a larger context – asking questions of meaning, of purpose and of relatedness to the Ground of Being and seeking the perspectives and practices which will illuminate these matters for the individual. The work is a discovery process: what will enable the individual’s essential self – the soul force (however this term is understood) to express and fulfill itself in this lifetime. Spiritual direction asks: how do you align your life and the purpose you were born for? It’s a rich, ever unfolding journey!
How is spiritual direction different from therapy?
There are so many different approaches in both fields that it might be better to ask the question: What kind of inner work am I interested in doing and what processes a support that? It is sometimes said that the work of psychology is to construct a healthy ego, and the work of spiritual development is to destroy the ego. I don’t agree. Again, I see a continuum rather than an either/or. The work of psycho-spiritual maturation is to place a healthy ego at the service of a larger purpose – both within and beyond the self. This is my approach to spiritual direction. So the question becomes: does this lens on inner work fit your needs?
What beliefs do people have to have in order to benefit from this work?
There is no litmus test of beliefs that anyone needs to have in order to undertake the work of discovery of the call of their soul – including a belief in the soul or comfort with that word! As the Tao To Ching says, “the name that can be named is not the name.” All that is required is an intention and a willingness to begin.
Where do you meet with clients?
I meet with clients both in person in one of two locations in either Kensignton or Benicia CA and also hold appointments by phone.
Do you offer a sliding fee scale?
Yes. Contact me for more information.