Welcome!
As your spiritual direction guide, we go together on a journey of interpersonal companionship to explore your inner values. Along the way you will grow, live and love in spirituality. I offer you my attentive presence in a safe space to explore how your interior world, the natural world and the supernatural, or mystical reality, might meet.
I welcome people of every gender identity, sexual orientation, race, age, ability, culture and faith practice with an open heart and open mind.
How we work together
The traditional nomenclature is "spiritual director" however my approach is that of a companion or guide, not a director in the traditional sense of the word. I accompany you on your journey rather than direct where you should, or need, to go. You bring your questions, doubts, concerns and joys to our sessions. In that way you set the agenda and determine the subjects each time.
I believe people can sort through their issues and come to clarity when I bring my authentic self to our sessions. In this way we build trust for deeper explorations. My own direct experience of life, my training, and my work with former clients inform my ability to listen and ask appropriate questions so that you hear exactly what you need to hear.
Our time together may have tears, laughter, silence and more. It will be a time of sharing our stories, for it is in storytelling that we create connections, reinforce our histories and learn ways in which we might transform. Some might call it going on a spiritual pilgrimage with a guide who points out the interpretive signs along the trail.
What is spiritual direction?
Spiritual Direction is the practice of deep listening and accompaniment in a safe space as one explores their relationship with the Divine and/or their own personal spirituality.
It is a process that includes increased self-awareness, clarifying one’s sense of purpose and enhancing one’s sense of belonging--to self, family, community, the world and the sacred mystery.
What my clients are saying:
“Lisa is an exceptional spiritual counselor. She is well versed in both theory and practice; she hears you and offers sound, compassionate guidance, and direction. Lisa helped me to broaden my world view by offering alternative thoughts to consider; enabling me to challenge my ideas, values, and beliefs. I value Lisa as my Spiritual Director and have recommended her to friends and colleagues.”
— Fr John
“I am fully confident in Lisa Ashley’s competence, empathy and experience as a spiritual director/counselor. I have known her well for ten years since she was a student in the School of Theology and Ministry at Seattle University, and since, as a practicing spiritual director. Her assets: honesty, clarity, patience, deep listening, wisdom, and quick recognition of feeling, continue to deepen. I do not hesitate to send those seeking such guidance to Lisa.”
— The Rev. Catherine Fransson
Spiritual Director, retired pastor
Author of Loving the Enemy—2019
