FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is Catholic Spiritual Direction?

Catholic spiritual direction is a prayerful conversation that helps you recognize and respond to God’s loving action in your life. I accompany you as we listen together for the promptings of the Holy Spirit through Sacred Scripture, prayer, the teachings of the Catholic Church, and the wisdom of the saints. You make your own decisions.

The goal is not simply to solve problems—it is to grow in friendship with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and become the person God created you to be.

Who is Spiritual Direction for?

I work primarily with psychologically healthy Catholic individuals who desire to deepen their relationship with God and faithfully fulfill their Baptismal promises and God-given mission(s).

My clients are seeking greater intimacy with God, and want a clear plan for personal, professional & Church mission, growth in holiness, and the confidence to live & lead according to Catholic teaching & desire for holiness.

Many have accomplished much in their lives, yet sense God inviting them into a deeper season of intentional discipleship, and growth in the stages of the spiritual life.

What is the difference between Spiritual direction, Life coaching, Counseling/Therapy & Pastoral Counseling?

Each serves a different purpose.

Spiritual Direction* focuses on your relationship with God and helps you discern His presence and invitations in your life. Together, we explore how the Holy Spirit is working through prayer/Holy Scripture, relationships, decisions, joys & challenges.

Life Coaching* helps you establish goals, overcome obstacles, develop habits, and move intentionally toward personal, professional, vocational, or leadership objectives.

Counseling and Psychotherapy address emotional, psychological, relational, or mental health concerns and are provided by licensed mental health professionals.

Pastoral Counseling* also address emotional, psychological, relational, or mental health concerns, but with Christian framework and lens of certified Pastoral counselors, priests, and some spiritual directors.

* Spiritual direction, life coaching, & pastoral counseling are not substitutes for mental health treatment.

What happens during a spiritual direction session?

Each session begins by inviting the Holy Spirit to guide our conversation.

Together we prayerfully explore what God has been doing in your life through your prayer, relationships, work, family life, joys, struggles, and decisions.

You will have space to ask questions, reflect, discern, and receive practical suggestions for prayer or spiritual growth rooted in the Catholic tradition.

Every session is personalized because every soul’s journey with God is unique.

Do I need to be “holy enough” before beginning spiritual direction?

Not at all.

Many faithful Catholics hesitate because they think they should already know how to pray well or have everything figured out.

The desire to know and love God more deeply is enough.

Spiritual direction is not for perfect Catholics. It is for disciples who sincerely desire to grow in friendship with Christ and respond more fully to His grace.

Why invest in spiritual direction?

Many people readily invest in services that support important areas of life—a personal trainer, financial advisor, executive coach, professional mentor, or personal development specialist—because they recognize the value of expert guidance.

Spiritual direction is an investment in the most important relationship of your life: your relationship with God.

Through consistent spiritual accompaniment, many women experience greater clarity, peace, freedom, and confidence as they discern God’s will and live their personal, family, & profession lives more fully.

Helping a person discern God’s will, deepen their relationship with the Blessed Trinity, grow in holiness, and faithfully live their mission is one of the most meaningful investments a person can make.

The value is not simply found in the time spent together during a session. It includes years of formation, theological study, professional preparation, prayerful discernment, and more.

The fruits of spiritual direction extend far beyond the session itself, influencing your prayer life, family, vocation, leadership, relationships, and service to God and others.

Why would I choose a lay spiritual director instead of a priest?

Did you know that many saints like Pope St. John Paul II had a Lay Spiritual Director?

Priests have a unique and irreplaceable vocation in the life of the Church. Through the sacraments, preaching, pastoral care, and spiritual guidance, they serve the faithful in a profound way.

Many priests generously provide spiritual direction when their responsibilities allow.

A lay spiritual director offers a complementary form of accompaniment. As a Catholic woman, wife, mother, professional, and lifelong learner, I bring lived experience of integrating faith with the ordinary realities of marriage, family, work, leadership, and different seasons of life.

Many appreciate having a consistent companion who understands these experiences while remaining rooted in the wisdom and teachings of the Catholic Church.

Spiritual direction does not replace the sacramental life of the Church or the guidance of clergy. Rather, it supports people in living their faith more deeply.

What is your philosophy/perspective for Spiritual Direction & Coaching?

My philosophy: Catholic Christians are all adopted children of God tasked with fulfilling our Baptismal Promises under the guidance of the Holy Trinity, Blessed Virgin Mary & our Guardian Angels, & the Magisterium of the Catholic Church, and with the company of the faithful on earth, plus the saints & angels in heaven.

I accompany women who desire more than simply practicing their faith—they desire to understand how God is calling them to live their unique mission in the Church and the world.

What makes your approach unique?  

Most coaches or spiritual director simply have a course, read some books, or even a certification. 

I have a gift for connecting dots, seeing God’s hand and will in common, everyday experiences, decision-making

You will learn practical applications of how to live out the faith daily, in a sacramental life.

I combine knowledge and experience from  

faithfully follow the teachings of the Magisterium of the Catholic Church under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and

I utilize the coaching method of International Coaching Federation to guide my God-centered vision-solution-direction focused questions & offerings so you can rest in knowing that the Lord is guiding our conversations & steps.

What kind of professional experience, education & training do you have?

Your experience is backed by my years in corporate marketing, business/leadership principles, entrepreneur vision, ministry (healing, spirituality, prayer), and as an award-winning professional artist, personal trainer/athlete/coach.

Education:

• B.A. in Social Science/Psychology (University of California, Irvine)
• MBA (Pepperdine University – Gradiadio School of Business)
• Graduate-level study in Theology (Notre Dame Graduate School of Christendom College), Education (National University), & Kinesiology (California State University, Fullerton)

Training/Certification:

• Life & Leadership Coaching (Professional Christian Coaching Institute, Catholic Track),
• Spiritual Direction (NDGS of Christendom College, Loyola Institute of Spirituality (Orange, CA), St. Vincent Seminary IMF (PA)
• Leadership & Public speaking (Toastmasters, Dale Carnegie Courses)
• Group Coaching, Facilitating, Retreats/Workshops (PCCI, Endow Groups, Cursillo)

Why should I choose you?

I have been where you are, feeling a sense of urgency & calling, but not sure exactly how to proceed or to who to turn to.

I know the path & the Way: I been in the deepest darkest places in life & was redeemed by God through the guidance and care of wise spiritual directors and coaches, and brought to my mission and purpose despite all I had done and been through

I believe that God can do anything, and elevate you to supernatural heights to reach your God-given potential & goals.

I know how to help you draw out your deepest desires, to see and become the person God created you to be

I have the courage, experience, knowledge, education, resources, tools & desire to accompany you on your journey

I love an adventure, to help people problem-solve & be their light with the Holy Spirit

What spiritual traditionss influence your guidance?

My approach is faithfully rooted in Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the rich wisdom of the saints.

Among the spiritual masters who particularly influence my work are St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. Ignatius of Loyola, St. Norbert of Xanten, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, St. Francis de Sales, and St Thomas Aquinas.

Will you tell me what God wants me to do?

No.

A spiritual director does not replace your conscience or make decisions for you.

Instead, I help you learn to recognize God’s voice, discern His invitations, and respond with freedom and confidence according to the teachings of the Catholic Church.

My role is to accompany you—not direct your life.

What kinds of topics can we discuss?

Women often bring questions such as:

• How can I hear God’s voice more clearly?
• What is God calling me to in this season?
• How can I grow in prayer?
• How do I discern an important decision?
• How can I become more faithful in my marriage and family life?
• What is my mission within the Church?
• How do I integrate my faith with my professional life?
• How can I grow in Christian virtue and holiness?
• How do I persevere through spiritual dryness or periods of waiting?
• How can I use my gifts and experience to serve God’s purposes?

No matter where you are on your journey, every conversation is centered on drawing closer to Christ.

What transformation can I expect through spiritual direction?

Every woman’s journey with God is unique, and growth unfolds according to His grace and timing.

Many women experience:

• Greater intimacy with the Blessed Trinity
• A deeper and more consistent prayer life
• Greater clarity about their vocation and mission
• Increased confidence in discerning God’s will
• Growth in virtue and spiritual maturity
• Greater peace and freedom in decision-making
• A stronger integration of faith, family, work, and leadership
• A renewed desire to serve God and others

The goal is not simply to learn more about God, but to know Him more deeply, love Him more fully, and respond generously to His invitation to holiness.

What is the difference between Catholic Life Coaching and Spiritual Direction?

Although both seek to help individuals grow in faith and live more fully according to God’s will, Catholic Life Coaching and Catholic Spiritual Direction have different purposes, methods, and outcomes. Many people find these ministries complement one another.

See descriptions above.

 

Can Catholic Life Coaching and Spiritual Direction work together?

Yes. Many Catholics choose to participate in both.

For example:

A Spiritual Director may help you:

• Discern where, how & when God is inviting you to grow
• How He is working through prayer
• Spiritual consolations and struggles
• Grow closer in your relationship with each person of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son & Holy Spirit
• Your journey toward holiness & growth in Christian virtue & Love

A Catholic Life Coach may help you:

See through the lens of the Catholic faith to –

• Translate discernment into practical action steps
• Establish realistic goals
• Build & strengthen natural virtues (healthy habits)
• Provide accountability
• Navigate life transitions & challenging situations
• Improve leadership skills, presence, team dynamics and communication
• Steward your gifts, time, and vocation more effectively

Together, these complementary approaches support both spiritual formation and intentional action. Spiritual direction primarily nurtures your relationship with God and attentiveness to His grace, while Catholic Life Coaching helps you faithfully implement what you discern through concrete decisions and daily practices.

Neither ministry replaces participation in the Sacramental life of the Church, pastoral care from a priest or deacon, licensed mental health services when needed, or other qualified professional care. Each serves a distinct role in supporting the whole person on the journey toward faithful discipleship and human flourishing.

How much does Spiritual Direction & Coaching cost? Do you have packages?

Many women consider spiritual direction & coaching two of the most meaningful investments they make because its fruits touch every area of life—faith, family, work, relationships, leadership, and personal vocation.

You may choose the option that best supports your goals and season of life:

Packages

For those seeking consistent growth and accountability…

Packages provide the opportunity to build momentum through regular sessions while allowing time for prayerful reflection, discernment, and meaningful progress between meetings.

• Spiritual Direction ($450-1120 sliding scale for six 45-minute sessions, 1- session/month)

• Life Coaching ($490/month for up to three 45-minute sessions/month)
• Leadership Coaching ($1490/month for up to three 45-minute sessions/month)

Individual Sessions:

If you prefer greater flexibility Individual Sessions are also available…

• Spiritual Direction ($75-$195 sliding scale for one 45-minute session)

• Life Coaching Power Session ($349 for one 90-minute session)
• Leadership Coaching Power Session: ($749 for one 90-minute session) 

*Please note: All services are offered by appointment.   Pricing, package details, & session frequency are reviewed before coaching begins. Current rates and package options are available during your initial inquiry.

How long is each session?

While you can choose a shorter or longer session in 25-minute increments, spiritual direction & coaching sessions are usually about 45-50 minutes, allowing ample time for prayerful reflection, discernment, meaningful conversation & goal/accountability setting.

Are sessions available online?

Yes.

Spiritual direction and Catholic Life Coaching are both offered by secure video conference and in person for clients in Southern California.

How often should I meet with a spiritual director or coach?*

Most people benefit from Life/Leadership Coaching sessions 2-3x/month:  This provides enough time to pray, reflect, and notice God’s work between sessions while maintaining consistency in their growth.

Spiritual Direction sessions are once a month

*Some women choose to meet more frequently during seasons of discernment, transition, or major life decisions.

Is everything confidential?

Yes.

Your privacy is treated with the utmost respect. Conversations remain confidential except in situations where disclosure is required by law or where there is an immediate risk of harm.

Creating a safe, prayerful, and trustworthy environment is an essential part of spiritual accompaniment.

How do I know if we’re a good fit?

The best way to find out is to begin with an introductory conversation.

Together we’ll discuss your spiritual journey, your hopes for spiritual direction, and whether this is the right season for us to work together.

It would be a privilege to accompany you as you continue discovering God’s unique mission for your life.

“The glory of God is man fully alive.” — St. Irenaeus