Introduction:​

Spiritual Direction can be defined as a contemplative practice of holy listening in which the director accompanies a directee in discerning the movement of the Divine in their life. It is not therapy or professional counseling, though some themes and practices may overlap.As a trauma-informed spiritual director, I recognize the profound responsibility and trust placed in me by those I accompany. These ethical guidelines serve to uphold the integrity of this ministry by prioritizing the dignity, uniqueness and safety of each directee. ​

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Foundational Values​

Anchoring my practice in humility, authenticity, integrity, engaged presence, personal growth and accountability sets the foundation for creating a safe space where relationship, healing and spiritual growth can flourish. These values cultivate mutual trust, a high standard of care, and models love, compassion, justice, wisdom, discernment and contemplative presence. Empowerment, choice, and cultural responsiveness are also very important and I will do my best to make these a lens through which spiritual direction will be offered. ​

 

Ongoing Formation and Self-Awareness

As a spiritual director, I am committed to: 

• Regular practice of prayer, contemplation, and reflection

• Continued relevant education and study in relation to spiritual growth and direction.

• Maintaining and modeling a high level of integrity in regards to all behaviour, including refraining from any sexual, emotional or physical words or actions that would manipulate, abuse or coerce a directee.​​​

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Setting Boundaries 

Clear and compassionate boundaries are a form of care for both the directee and the director. I’m committed to transparency with the directee in clarifying roles to foster a healthy relationship with each person.

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Confidentiality

Confidentiality is a cornerstone of trust in relationship and spiritual direction. I will hold all information shared in complete confidence (including all oral, digital and written communications), with the following exceptions:

• The directee poses risk of harm to self or others.

• Disclosure of abuse that legally requires reporting.

• Explicit consent by the directee to share information (e.g., in collaboration with another therapist, supervisor or trusted individual).

I will communicate these exceptions clearly at the outset and revisit them as needed. ​

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Digital and Organizational Ethics

Since spiritual direction will include online sessions and communications, I will:

• Ensure the privacy and security of digital communications.

• Clarify boundaries when spiritual direction is offered as part of employment, pastoral care, or educational programs.

• Avoid dual allegiances that could compromise the directee's confidentiality or autonomy.​

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Respect and Dignity

I will honour, respect and cherish every directee, seeing each one as a loved and gifted human being. Their values, beliefs, cultures and experiences will be held with sensitivity, care and respect. I affirm and welcome peopole of all ages, races, nationalities and genders.

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Processes and settings

I will initiate conversations about and establish:

• Clear communication regarding compensation and the process for payments.

• Regular checkpoints to evaluate the relationship for growth, health and affectivity.

• A process for necessary or beneficial ending of the relationship.

• Boundaries for where and how spiritual direction can take place. 

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Use of Power and Spiritual Authority

A spiritual director often holds implicit authority due to perceived spiritual maturity or organizational roles and affiliation. I’m committed to being especially sensitive to power dynamics since this is a specialized area of focus for me and many of my directees will come to spiritual direction with painful experiences related to unhealthy leadership and power.​​

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Trauma-Informed Presence

Because of the need for trauma-informed leaders in our world and because trauma is a specialized area of focus for me, I want to pay particular attention to specific practices. Therefore I seek to always:

• Foster a space of emotional, physical, and spiritual safety.

• Honour the directee’s agency and pace, especially in the presence of past trauma.

• Respond non-judgmentally to the directee’s experiences, choices and views.

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Conclusion​

As a spiritual director, fostering a space of safety, presence and peace is more than the session itself. It’s also about how we approach and live out the practices of how that integrity and commitment is maintained. They support the flourishing of both spiritual director and directee. I commit to offering spiritual direction that honours God and each person I have the privilege of joining in this journey.