
Frequently asked questions.
Welcome! Here are some quick answers to common questions about spiritual direction, how sessions work, and the practicals of scheduling and payment. If you don’t see your question here, please feel free to reach out — I’d love to hear from you.
What is a spiritual director?
A spiritual director is a trained and skilled listener who offers a space of holy listening — a safe, contemplative place to listen with you for the ways God is speaking and moving in the fabric of your life. Spiritual direction is not counseling or a place to receive answers. Instead, it’s more about companionship: an attentive presence that helps you notice God’s voice and work in both the ordinary and the unexpected. I don’t come with an agenda but with curiosity, deep listening, and gentle questions. At times I may also bring creative possibilities such as lectio divina, poetry, or other contemplative practices, all as invitations to help you enter more deeply into your own experience of self, the world, and the divine.
What is spiritual direction not?
Spiritual direction is not therapy, counseling, medical care, or financial advice. Those are important services offered by trained professionals, and I encourage you to seek them when needed. Spiritual direction is focused on prayer, discernment, and deepening your walk with God. It can sit alongside other kinds of care you may already receive.
How do I pay for a session?
Payment for sessions is due at the time of service, and I currently accept Venmo and Zelle. My standard rate for individual direction is $90, with a sliding scale of $60–$125 per session. Paying on the higher end of the scale helps make it possible for me to offer sessions at the lower end for those with financial constraints. My hope is that everyone who desires spiritual direction can access it, regardless of finances. If cost feels like a barrier, please reach out to me at abby@seasonedwithstory.com so we can find a way forward together.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Life happens! Please let me know at least 24 hours in advance if you need to reschedule or cancel. Sessions canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice, or missed entirely, may be subject to a $35 fee to honor the time set aside.
Do you offer refunds?
Completed sessions are non-refundable. If something comes up before your session or you have concerns, reach out — I’ll do my best to work with you.
Is my information private?
Yes. Anything you share in a session is held in confidence, with one important exception: if there is disclosure of harm to yourself, harm to others, or abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult, I am required to report it to the appropriate authorities. Beyond those rare circumstances, I value and protect your privacy. Your email and personal information are never sold or shared beyond what’s needed to provide services (see my Privacy Policy for details).
Do I have to be part of a church to seek spiritual direction?
Not at all. Spiritual direction is for anyone longing to grow in awareness of God — whether you’re deeply rooted in a faith community, exploring new ground, or unsure where you belong. All are welcome. While I am rooted in the Christian tradition, I companion people from many faiths as well as those still discerning their spiritual path. In our sessions, I will take time to learn and honor your particular spiritual experience so the space reflects how you most naturally name and experience the Divine.
How often do people meet with a spiritual director?
It varies! Many meet once a month, while others prefer a different rhythm depending on what season of life they’re in. We’ll work together to find a rhythm that feels right for you.
What if we’re not a good fit?
It’s important that spiritual direction feels like a good fit. After about three sessions, I’ll check in with you so we can discern together whether this relationship is serving you well. If it doesn’t feel like the right match, that’s okay — I can share a resource list of other trained directors, and you’re also welcome to explore directories such as the Companioning Center or Spiritual Directors International (SDI). My desire is that you find the companion who best supports your journey.
Closing Note:
Spiritual direction is about companionship, not perfection. I’m here to walk with you, not to give you all the answers. If you have questions not listed here, feel free to email me anytime at abby@seasonedwithstory.com.