Frequently asked questions

When might you look for an interspiritual companion?

• you’re in the midst of a life crisis- divorce, job loss, caregiving or death of a loved one, facing a major life decision or life altering diagnosis

• you are or have been severely affected by the pandemic

• you find yourself asking questions about the meaning of life, you feel like you’re living on the surface of things or that your actions aren’t aligned with your beliefs

• you want to deepen your connection with, or to discover what is, your center/your source/your life’s deeper meaning

• you’ve been hurt by your faith community, or you’re having a faith crisis, reconciling past faith with current beliefs, or merging interfaith beliefs into a cohesive whole

• you’re part of a marginalized community- LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, women, indigenous, elders, differently abled, or others- and need to be heard

• you feel the impacts of aging and mortality

• you’re dealing with your own death and dying experience or with that of someone you love       

• you want to find wholeness and balance and live an integrated, authentic life

• you just need a safe space where someone will listen to your stories         

What if I’m not religious?

We’re all on a journey through life, whether we have a religious tradition or not.  We all want to find meaning and we want our life to move forward in a positive direction. 

Whether you have a religious tradition, once had one, have never found one, or don’t feel you need one, it’s valuable to have a non-judgmental companion who listens deeply and creates a safe space where you can sort things out for yourself.   

What if I identify as LGBTQIA+?  Or atheist?  Or….?

You will find that I’m fully affirming of individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities and expressions, as well as all cultures, religions and spiritual paths including none at all.

What’s the difference between interspiritual companioning, counseling, and seeing a minister?

Many of the same topics come up in companioning, counseling and conversations with clergy, but the direction the conversation takes is different.  A counselor is goal oriented, trained to create a plan that resolves a problem.  A religious leader speaks from a specific faith tradition.  An interspiritual companion listens and creates space for the client’s own exploration and discernment. 

What will happen in our time together?

Each person is unique and so is their path.  Therefore what happens in a particular hour varies.

You are beginning a personal exploration.  All topics encompassing the human condition can be brought up in the process of self-reflection.  What happens is led by your journey, your needs and what you desire for your life.

We may start a session with silence or guided meditation to ground ourselves and bring ourselves into the present.  You might bring something to talk about or not have anything prepared.  You may choose to take notes.  There may be times for you to reflect or times focusing on how your body is speaking to you.  There are no topics that are “correct.” No “correct” questions. No “correct” answers.  I might have observations, questions or reflections to offer for your consideration.

I will hold our conversations in strict confidence.  Our time together is sacred.  I will not reveal the content of our conversations unless I am required to do so by law.  On the other hand, you are free to share whatever you choose about our conversations with anyone.

We will commit to begin and end our hour sessions on time.  If you need to reschedule your appointment, please let me know by text at least 24 hours in advance. 

We agree to monthly one-hour sessions.  A commitment to three months gives you enough time to know if the process is meaningful for you. You may want to meet more frequently or for a longer session periodically.  Please schedule in advance.

During our third session and yearly after that, we will discuss whether we continue to be a good fit. At that time you may decide to continue, or not, as is best for you.

Where will we meet?

We will meet either in person at my home (when possible) or virtually on Zoom or FaceTime.

How much does it cost?

The fee is on a sliding scale from $40-$80, payable by cash or check (in person), PayPal or Venmo (virtually), at the end of each session.  Choose an amount that is appropriate for you.  A guideline might be to think about what you pay for similar services.  If you’re experiencing financial hardship, we can discuss the fee during our introductory session.

Are there other options for a companion?

The connection between a client and interspiritual companion is very important.  If you decide I’m not a good fit for you, here are other resources to help you find those who companion:

                         https://www.sdicompanions.org/find-a-spiritual-director-companion/                 

  https://spiritualitynetwork.org/for-seekers

Questions? If your question isn’t here, please reach out to me.