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David Scheuneman, M.Div. | RootedInSpirit.org >> Consultation >> Spiritual Direction |
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David Scheuneman, M.Div. | RootedInSpirit.org >> Consultation >> Spiritual Direction |
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What is Spiritual Direction?continued ... People enter formal spiritual direction for a variety of reasons. For some, it flows out of enthusiasm for developing their higher potential. For others, it starts with seeking assistance through difficult times of life. A range of motivations can be appropriate. A preliminary conversation helps determine if spiritual direction would be helpful in a given situation. Unlike psychotherapy, spiritual direction does not focus on solving problems. It may have a therapeutic effect, but spiriutal direction is more about discerning and responding to the leadings of one's innermost spirit and developing a more authentic way of being. Sometimes traditional mental health counseling is necessary before a person can benefit from spiritual direction. Those suffering from acute distress or a mental health disorder are advised to seek appropriate medical and psychological care. In collaboration with other health professionals, however, spiritual direction can play a helpful role in an overall program of holistic care. |