“There is the solitude of suffering, when you go through darkness that is lonely, intense, and terrible. Words become powerless to express your pain; what others hear from your words is so distant and different from what you are actually suffering.”
— John O’Donohue
Differing from spiritual direction, spiritual counseling helps to address issues of personal suffering that perhaps are beyond the scope of spiritual direction. Human suffering, including suffering mental and emotional distress and illness, can be seen from the spiritual as well as the psychological perspectives.
Often times meditation and contemplative prayer are difficult for some; Susy aids the individual in spiritual counseling to develop methods that are suitable for their particular situation. Transitional work, issues of grief, death of self, rebirth, and spiritual emergencies are also typical of issues brought to spiritual counseling.
The focus is holistic, keeping a balance between the physical, emotional, intellectual, and the spirituality of the individual. The goal is growth and transformation. The interaction of the individual with the environment is explored and personal resiliencies are discovered and developed. Dr. Sanders has specialized knowledge and experience in working with those suffering from mental illness and the often linked crisis of faith.
A transpersonal and cross-faith ecumenical perspective is utilized. Dr. Sanders is well-versed in a range of belief systems; she draws upon the individual’s own paradigm, makes use of the individual’s own faith language and respects individual beliefs.
Spiritual counseling can take place in person, over the telephone, or through v-see. To inquire about whether engaging in spiritual counseling is appropriate for you, email Dr. Susy Sanders at: susynow@morningbridgecenter.com