What Is a Non-Religious Spiritual Companion?
Spiritual Companionship (also known as Spiritual Direction) is found in many of the world’s wisdom traditions. It is the ancient practice of being with someone as they navigate their unique spiritual journey. They are a supportive presence, a listening ear, and an open mind. They hold a safe space for you to freely explore your spiritual landscape and tell your sacred story.
What Does "Non-Religious" Mean?
While my spiritual journey took me through the culture, and various subcultures, of Christianity, I now explore a more personal and individualized path to spiritual fulfillment without being tied to any religious dogma, doctrine, institution, or community; and as a Non-Religious Spiritual Companion, I provide a safe space for others to do the same.
What Does "Spiritual" Mean?
The meaning of spirituality continues to develop and expand over time. Each of us approach it in our own personal way. Some abandon the term altogether because of its religious connotation, while others develop a personal meaning for the word. As a Non-Religious Spiritual Companion, I provide a safe space for others to openly, honestly, and safely discover its meaning, navigate its landscape, and explore its mysteries.
What Qualifies a Person to Be a Spiritual Companion?
As you determine what kind of person would make a good fit for the role of Spiritual Companion on your journey, I would like to present the following considerations:
MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE. I have walked a similar path. I have been on the other side of the wall, stuck in a toxic/high-control religious environment. I know what it is like to deconstruct, reconstruct, question, and doubt. I have felt the pain and loss of rejection by religious community and loved ones. I am on the path of healing from religious trauma - both as a former pastor that caused it, and as a former layman that experienced it.
MY PROFESSIONAL TRAINING. In addition to personal experience, I have received formal training and obtained a Spiritual Direction Certification through the Center of Non-Religious Spirituality as well as a Trauma-Informed Coach Certification through The Centre for Healing. In an effort to grow in my capacity, I continually engage in other relevant training programs and educational courses, as well as a Spiritual Directors Mastermind Group for peer accountability, support, and development.
What Happens in a Spiritual Direction Session?
Our time together is sacred. It is set aside to reflect, with intention, on life experiences in relationship to religion and/or spirituality. During these times, you will take responsibility for the content and flow of the material shared; and I will fill the role of companion through listening with an open mind free of judgment, bearing witness to your journey with sincerity and curiosity, and maintaining respect for your freedom to find your own spiritual path. I will hold our conversations in strict confidence. This is a safe space for your story and your journey, and it is my joy to walk with you.
