HOLY LISTENING
When was the last time you spoke with someone about your deepest questions, doubts, concerns or desires long enough to get some clarity, or figure out the next step to take? Felt great, didn’t it?
To me, that is the essence of spiritual direction or holy listening.
I’m someone who thinks a lot, feels a lot, questions a lot. On the inside. Expressing myself freely, verbalizing my doubts, or insights outwardly happens only when I’m in safe company. With my spiritual director, I am able to open up and talk about where it is I am on the spiritual path, knowing she cares and isn’t there to judge or correct me. That is so freeing. And so healing.
As a trained spiritual director, I am able to offer that safe company to you. Nothing is off topic in our time together. You decide what it is you would like to discuss in our session together.
Let’s set up a complimentary 20 minute conversation to see if we are compatible.
“I have been a seeker for decades, exploring many diverse paths (Native, Buddhist /Mindfulness, Christian, Nature). No matter the path, Susan has a knack for asking probing questions and providing sound mirroring. We have a common ground in nature spirituality, but she is always willing to help me explore any path that is challenging me at this time in my life. Simply put, I feel safe exploring my spiritual journey with Susan, whatever form it takes.” - David
“I have found the experience [of meeting with Susan] to be life changing!” - Kim
“During this season of transition, my monthly meetings with Susan have been life-giving and transformative. Her ability to listen well and be a mirror has been most beneficial. I leave our time together with greater confidence to take the next steps, no matter how small, so I can continue leaning forward.” - Joe Ella
“When I began my walk with Susan I really didn't know what to expect but I have found the experience to be profound for me. Susan has walked this journey with me in a way that has helped me to more deeply honor God and His Creation; explore the Trinity and its movement; dig deeper into the giftedness of who He has made me to be; exploring what it means to live in community; and learning to be faithful to what God has put in me. Words don't adequately express the depth of my experience.” - Andrea
Spiritual direction is the term used to describe a particular type of relationship, which began in the early centuries of monastic Christianity.
In recent decades, spiritual direction has grown outside the monastery walls, offering a discerning ear to people of all walks of life.
Today you can find a spiritual director in most faith communities.
There are many ways to practice spiritual direction.
A spiritual director is also called a spiritual companion, soul companion, soul friend, anam cara, and more.
Spiritual direction is sometimes described as holy listening.
“Talking with a Soul Companion helps you grow deeper in your relationship with the Divine Creator.”
Why seek Soul Companioning?
You sense or feel a shift in your beliefs.
What once felt strong and secure may be cracking or crumbling and you want to understand why.
Life situations have opened you to new ways of being, yet you are unsure of how to navigate in that.
You want to discern the next steps of your spiritual journey, and looking for someone to discuss this with.
You are sensing a yearning to grow deeper but are unable to find ready-made programs to guide you.
My approach to soul companioning is informal and flexible. You decide how our time together will take shape.
My goal is to be hospitable, inviting you into a safe space where you feel free to discuss what is on your heart and mind.
I believe all of life is a spiritual journey. As such, no subject is off topic.
I believe your heartfelt thoughts, feelings and questions are holy and are clues pointing to the next phase of your journey.
Certificate in Spiritual Direction, Selah Center for Spiritual Formation, Nashville, TN
Master of Arts in Religion, Yale Divinity School, New Haven, CT
Continuing Education
member of Spiritual Directors International
In person in Springfield, TN (30 miles northwest of Nashville)
Via Zoom or telephone
usually once per month, for one hour, but is flexible and based on what you are looking for.
availability is Monday - Friday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Central time
is $60 per hour, payable via PayPal, Venmo, (cash or check in person)
Let’s set up a complimentary 20 minute conversation to see if we are compatible.
