Training to become a spiritual director can be a profound and fulfilling journey that will allow you to become an experienced, discerning, and knowledgeable companion to others.  If you're drawn to this vocation and are passionate about helping individuals deepen their spiritual lives, you've come to the right place.  In this blog, we'll provide you with a comprehensive step-by-step guide to pursuing spiritual direction training. At The Studion School for Spiritual Direction we specialize in offering a unique two-year, part-time program that equips you with the skills and knowledge needed for this meaningful work. Let's explore the steps to becoming a spiritual director and how it can transform your life and the lives of others.

Understanding Spiritual Direction 

Spiritual direction is a Spirit-led, contemplative process in which individuals are helped in discerning the presence and action of God in their lives. This practice emphasizes the exploration of one's inner life, the pursuit of spiritual meaning in everyday life, contemplative prayer practices, and the cultivation of a deeper relationship with God. The spiritual director serves as a discerning, compassionate, and non-judgmental companion on the spiritual journey. 

Take Time for Self-Reflection

Before making a decision, take time for some self-reflection. One good question to ask is, What draws you to the idea of spiritual direction? Maybe you have read a book that has tweaked your interest, maybe you have had experience with listening or contemplative prayer, maybe your current spiritual practices align with things like silence, solitude, seeking the Spirit’s direction, and spiritual companionship. Maybe you are seeking to enhance and sharpen skills you know you already have.

Another question is about your past experience. This can include both a consideration of what you have experienced, but also reflection on what may have been missing. What is your own story of walking with others?  What kind of person have you been to others who are seeking to grow in their love for God?  How would you describe your spirituality so far, and what are you seeking now that may have been missing in the past?  Where and how do you want to grow, and would spiritual direction training be a natural next step in what you have already done?    

Choosing the Right Training Program 

Selecting the right spiritual direction training program is a critical decision. Whatever program you choose, ensure the program aligns with your values, beliefs, and goals as a future spiritual director.  

The Studion School for Spiritual Direction offers a unique program that combines in-person residencies with online modules, accommodating various learning styles. What is more, The Studion facilitators have extensive practice and experience in spiritual direction, group facilitation, teaching, pastoral ministry, and the various practices of Christian spirituality. Our program specializes in extensive conversations between psychology and spirituality, a rootedness in the Christian mystic tradition, six silent retreats, and extensive learning sessionals that cover many topics relevant to spiritual direction.   

Growing Your Skills

One of our goals at The Studion is to get practicing as soon as possible, and then, practice a lot.  Practicing the skills of spiritual direction happens in three ways at The Studion:

1.  In-house practice sessions where participants work together with the guidance of a supervisor.

2.  In-house practicum week in which participants develop their skills with each other. 

3.  Supervised practicum that requires 40 sessions of providing spiritual direction to volunteer directees (people who receive spiritual direction).

Among other things participants will learn the skills of support, exploration, and discernment. 

Graduating with a Certificate of Completion

Upon completing your training, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion in spiritual direction training from The King’s University, Edmonton, AB. This credential will represent your competence and commitment to the work of spiritual direction. The Certificate will mark the beginning of your journey as a spiritual director, and you can start practicing and offering your guidance to those who are seeking a deeper, richer and more meaningful spiritual life.

Becoming a spiritual director is a transformative journey that not only deepens your own spiritual

practice but also empowers you to support and guide others. If you're looking for a

meaningful way to make a difference in the lives of others and embark on a fulfilling spiritual

practice, then contact The Studion School for Spiritual Direction. We are dedicated to providing you with the tools, knowledge, and experience needed to excel in this vocation.

Get in touch with us today

To learn more about what we do, please click here. To contact us, please click here or call us at (780) 905-4740.