Article
Do I need counseling or spiritual direction?
They can look similar from the outside. They are different practices with different purposes.
The short answer
Counseling addresses symptoms, patterns and change: anxiety, depression, grief, eating concerns, self-worth. Spiritual direction attends to your relationship with God and where he seems to be at work. Some women do one, some do both at different times.
Counseling is usually the fit when
- Anxiety, low mood, panic or eating concerns are affecting daily life.
- You want practical tools and measurable change.
- Something in your history keeps shaping your present.
- A loss or transition has become more than you can carry alone.
- You want a licensed clinician's help with symptoms.
Spiritual direction is usually the fit when
- You want to pay attention to God in your ordinary life.
- Prayer feels dry, changed or confusing.
- You are discerning a decision and want to listen well.
- You are longing for depth rather than relief from symptoms.
- You want a companion for the interior life rather than a treatment plan.
If you are unsure
That is common, and you do not have to decide alone. Lori offers both and can help you sort out which one fits what you are actually carrying right now.
Common questions
Can I do both?
At different times, yes. Lori will be clear about which relationship you are in.
Is spiritual direction counseling?
No. It is not treatment for mental health symptoms.
Which should I start with?
If symptoms are affecting daily life, counseling is usually the place to begin.
Learn more about Christian counseling with Lori with Lori, or browse all articles on Christian counseling.
Written by Lori Rasmussen, LISW, a Licensed Independent Social Worker licensed in the State of Iowa and a Certified Spiritual Director. Lori counsels women and female students in Waterloo, Iowa and online across Iowa. Articles here are meant to help you understand what you may be experiencing; they are not a diagnosis and they do not take the place of care from a professional who knows your story.
Reaching out can be the first step.
You don't need to know exactly what to say, or have anything figured out, before you contact Lori.
Or email rasmussencounselingandsd@gmail.com