This is one of the most common questions I hear, and it’s a wise one. Both therapy and spiritual direction can be profoundly supportive, but they are not the same thing.

Therapy

Therapy generally focuses on mental health: patterns, symptoms, diagnoses, trauma work, relational dynamics, and practical tools for emotional well-being. A therapist is trained to help you understand what’s happening psychologically and to move toward healing with evidence-based approaches.

Spiritual direction

Spiritual direction is centered on your relationship with God. We pay attention to your interior life—desire, resistance, consolation, desolation—and we listen for the Holy Spirit’s invitations. We aren’t working toward a “fix,” but toward a deepening awareness of God’s presence and a growing freedom to respond.

How they can work together

• Therapy can help you process trauma and build stability.
• Spiritual direction can help you notice God’s companionship within that healing.
• Therapy can strengthen coping; spiritual direction can deepen discernment.

If you’re in crisis or need specialized mental health support, therapy is often the best first step. If you’re longing for prayerful listening, discernment, and a space to be with God honestly—spiritual direction may be exactly what you’re seeking.

Want to try it without pressure? Your first spiritual direction session is free. Visit Work With Me or email elisa@sacredsoulcare.org.