What is Spiritual Direction?
Spiritual Direction is an ancient spiritual practice in which a “director” (also known as a companion or guide) and a person seeking guidance (known as a “directee” or client) agree to meet together to discuss the client’s spiritual life and journey. Sessions last about an hour and generally occur monthly. People seek Spiritual Direction for many reasons, including the desire to grow, the need to process religious experiences, and as a place to ask questions or address confusion about spiritual matters.
Who is Spiritual Direction for?
Spiritual Direction is for anyone who feels led to enter it. Often, those who start direction have unanswered questions about their life or about the meaning and significance of particular events or situations they have experienced. Spiritual Direction can help us listen more deeply to our own inner desires and to God, and can help us find ways to move forward when we feel stuck in life. Many seek Spiritual Direction when the practices, traditions, or rituals that used to give them comfort stop working or when they are feeling spiritually dry.
Is Spiritual Direction like counseling?
There are similarities between Spiritual Direction and counseling. Both activities involve meeting with a trusted person for the purposes of growth and healing. Counseling tends to focus on specific issues or problems that the client would like to resolve, such as anxiety, depression, or relational issues. Spiritual Direction focuses more on our spiritual path and development, including all the things that contribute to or get in the way of our deepening awareness and joy.
Who provides Spiritual Direction at Butterfly Spring?
All Spiritual Direction sessions are provided Dr. Carter Haynes. Dr. Haynes has completed a two-year training program in Spiritual Direction at Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation in Washington D.C. He also holds a Master’s degree in psychology, and a Ph.D. in Human Development with a concentration in spiritual development. Dr. Haynes is also a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has a separate psychotherapy practice.
How much does Spiritual Direction cost?
The cost for Spiritual Direction is $120 per session. Credit and debit cards are accepted.
Where does Spiritual Direction take place?
Dr. Haynes has an office in Sacramento, CA, and sessions can be held there for those who live in the area. Spiritual Direction is also available via secure video conference for those who live outside the Sacramento area or who prefer the convenience of virtual sessions.
How do I begin Spiritual Direction?
If you are interested meeting with Dr. Haynes to discuss whether Spiritual Direction is right for you and whether he would be a good match for your particular situation, please either Email or call/text him at 916-267-1458.