Spiritual Direction & Therapy—Some Differences
There are distinctions between spiritual direction and therapeutic relationships. In general, therapy and counseling deal primarily with problem areas of one's life and attempts to bring healthy resolution to issues and greater levels of functioning.
Spiritual direction focuses on finding and responding to God, even in the midst of pain or chaos of life. Problem solving, issue resolution are not the primary focus of direction.
If Not Spiritual Direction, then What?
For a variety of reasons, spiritual direction may not appropriate for every person. Or something in addition to direction may be called for. Consider these questions in your decision making:
Am I looking for Bible Study?
Consider: FCC Bible studies (both men’s, women’s and coed groups available), The Foothills School of Discipleship, Bible Study Fellowship, Precept Studies.
Am I looking for group support and community?
Consider: Small Groups at FCC, various FCC Bible Studies, and/or community based studies
Do I want: to grow in my prayer life, to find a group with whom I can pray and share, support in intentional prayer and meditation?
Consider: Local church prayer groups or meditation groups. Mentoring relationships are also helpful.
Do I need focused, healing prayer?
Consider: Church healing prayer lead by the pastor and elders and/or other healing prayer groups.
Do I want moral, biblical, or theological guidance for my life? Some person or group with whom to explore questions?
Consider: Spiritual Direction, local church leadership, community groups, mentoring.
Are there specific problem areas of my life or troubling emotions? Serious blockage issues? Looking to find ways of overcoming difficulties?
Consider: Counseling or therapy, 12 Step Groups, Support groups
Do want a "spiritual friend" with whom I can have an informal mutual relationship of prayer, sharing, and support in our spiritual journeys?
Consider: Looking at the groups with whom someone you already connect. Mentoring, coaching, and community groups are available at FCC.
Contact Debbie Swanson at Foothills Community Church for more information. You can reach her by email or phone at dswanson@foothillsonline.org or 303.420.2777
