As a spiritual advisor, guide, mentor, or companion (all of these terms are commonly employed), I hold monthly sessions via Zoom or in my Atlanta home office. Clients can terminate their sessions at any point.
Gathering of Focus
The hallmark of an ideal spiritual advisor session is the sense of presence or mindfulness that pervades it and the sudden insights that occur. These are prompted by a brief focusing activity at the session’s beginning (such as prayer, meditation, citing one’s joys and gratitudes, Tai Chi, etc.), which is then enhanced by our continued attentiveness throughout the session.
DISCUSSION
Sessions vary according to clients’ needs. However, often they choose to spend the bulk of their sessions describing a current or historical issue that has impacted them. We then search for promptings within the issue or their reactions to it, working toward increased spiritual receptivity and guidance.
SPIRITUAL EXPLORATION AND ACTIVITY
During the last portion of the spiritual guidance session, if time permits, we often explore how life events have affected their spirituality or vice versa. We do this through any of the following (the client chooses which appeals to him or her):
- The gradual crafting of a spiritual memoir (throughout multiple sessions). I provide a template and assistance.
- Creating a personal Spiritual Principles List. I provide an example.
- Reading and writing spiritual poetry. Often, we start with haiku.
- Reviewing the 8-fold path &/or Christian principles as they relate to the client’s life.
- Examining the client’s life domains through discussion, dream analysis, and active imagination.
Spiritual Advisor Sessions are on a sliding scale ranging from $40 to $75/hr. Sessions are held on a monthly basis.
