Spiritual Direction at the UU Church of Brevard

Helen Wilson offers Spiritual Direction, also called Anam Chara, or being a "Soul Friend," to individuals and groups. Sessions are typically one hour, and may be weekly, biweekly, or monthly, by appointment, in the Minister's Office at the church. The "Direction" is not imposed by the "director" but is sought by working together to discern where in your life you may be receiving clues moving you toward greater meaning, or growing closer to being your truest self. During a session, we might light a candle, listen for the promptings of the spirit (or the universe), discuss a dream, or experience a guided meditation, for example to get in touch with your Higher Self. Helen has a degree in psychology, and a Certificate in Spiritual Formation and Direction from the Institute of Pastoral Studies in Atlanta. Helen is a member of the UU Society for Community Ministries and the UU Spiritual Directors Network. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call Helen at 772-485-6865 or 888-367-5491 (toll-free), or email hehwilson@bellsouth.net.

F.A.Q.:

A: (Adapted from the SDI and UUSDN websites)

Spiritual direction is the process of accompanying people on a spiritual journey. Spiritual direction helps people tell their sacred stories everyday. Spiritual direction exists in a context that emphasizes growing closer to God (or the holy or a higher power). Spiritual direction invites a deeper relationship with the spiritual aspect of being human.

The object of spiritual direction is to cultivate one's ability to discern God's presence in one's life: to notice and appreciate moments of holiness, to maintain an awareness of the interconnectedness of all things, to explore ways to be open to the Blessed Holy One in challenging and difficult moments as well as in joyful ones. (Rabbi Jacob Staub)

A: At any time, individuals can be confronted by uncertainties and life experiences which threaten to exhaust emotional and spiritual resources. The loss of a loved one, parent-teen conflict, loss of job or the care of an elderly parent are just a few of life’s transitions and crises that can be depleting.

Q: How is Spiritual Direction different from Psychotherapy?

A: Spiritual direction is not psychotherapy, counseling, or financial planning. However, often persons who are experiencing life changes or crises, or struggling with non-clinical depression or anxiety, will seek out Spiritual Direction in order to place these issues in the context of their lives' meaning and purpose. Such issues have a spiritual dimension which is not typically addressed in therapeutic counseling. Spiritual Direction can work in conjuntion with therapy to foster a more complete or holistic healing and growth process.

Q: How much does Spiritual Direction cost?