Spiritual Direction is help given by a trained Spiritual Director (clergy or trained layperson) to another person through confidential, ongoing conversation. It is a relationship between the director and the one being directed.  Also, it is an encounter with God that two people participate in together. The purpose of the relationship is that the one being directed might grow closer in their relationship with God. In short, it's an opportunity for mentorship in developing a relationship with God.

Everyone needs a coach or a guide. Many of us try to pray, but simply don't know how to do it and don't know where to start. In looking at your own spiritual life, you might have questions about what any of this means! You might have never explored your own spiritual side. Or you might be going through a tough time and have begun to have doubts in your own faith life. A good spiritual director can accompany you through all of these instances and more.

It depends. Some folks have a regular monthly meeting with their director. Others are in a different stage and might meet more often. Some might meet a director once and then not meet again for some time. You can meet once a week, once a month, once a quarter, or whatever works for you and your director. Typically, an hour session, each month, at a mutually convenient location (or in online settings) where privacy can be assured is the norm. It is customary to offer a small stipend or donation for each meeting in appreciation for your companion's time (Standard rates vary but are roughly $35/hour on a sliding scale. Some directors waive their fee as part of their job requirements and others depend on their stipend as it is a major source of income for them or their religious community).