Sacred Springs
Spiritual Companioning
for Personal Growth
About Spiritual Direction
Julie Surma
Welcome to a sacred, compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together through the ebbs and flows of your journey as you explore the meanings, callings, difficulties, joys, successes, and purposes of your life.
At its core, spiritual direction or companioning is an ancient practice of holy listening intended to create holy space and stillness. Within this sacred container, we find deeper understanding of ourselves as spiritual beings having a human experience. Through our conversations and contemplative practices, we will seek to awaken awareness of your fullest potential, and discern where there are opportunities for growth and transformation. This path of growth most often traverses the territory of conscious and unconscious fear, shame and unmet childhood needs. Together, we invite healing to these places.
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Walking your journey with a spiritual companion is about moving toward wholeness and freedom by uncovering what it is you need at your deepest level.
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About Me
I see myself as a privileged witness to the spiritual unfolding of your path and would be honored to accompany you on your journey. My background is Christianity, which path I honor, along with all paths where love is central.
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My professional credentials include an MA in Theology from St. Catherine University (2007), and a graduate-level Spiritual Direction Certification from St. Catherine University (2013). I am a member of Spiritual Directors International. I have been a practicing director since 2013.
Who Spiritual Companioning for Personal Growth is For
People seek spiritual companioning for a variety of reasons:​
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to develop a richer spiritual life by awakening to our true nature
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to explore spiritual thoughts, doubts, worries, or struggles in a safe, non judgmental space
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to discern the Spirit’s movement in the midst of life events or transitions in areas such as work, relationships, illness, or loss
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to share or savor spiritual joys and discoveries along one’s spiritual journey.​
All people are welcome regardless of spiritual belief, race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.
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What Spiritual Companioning for Personal Growth is Not
Spiritual direction is not counseling, therapy, or coaching, although any of these practices may be used in conjunction with spiritual direction. Spiritual direction does not diagnose, treat, or set goals, but rather invites awakening, reflection, connection, and awareness.
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How Spiritual Companioning for Personal Growth Works
Each session is one hour and usually recurs monthly. The fee is $75 an hour, sliding scale fee is available. Each session will center on whatever is stirring in your heart and mind.
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My Commitment to You
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I will hold and honor the sacred story of your life with strict confidentiality and care. The exception would be for cases of abuse to self or others.
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I will honor your time and focus my attention on your exploration and growth.
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I will check in with you periodically to ensure our arrangement continues to be beneficial to you on your spiritual journey.
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Sand Play
Sand Play is a powerful method for accessing the unconscious in a way that can bring about profound change. It works on both spiritual and psychological levels.
In Sand Play we use miniature figures and objects to create scenes in the sand. This deceptively simple practice can allow our personal and archetypal symbols to tangibly emerge in a safe, supportive environment. Through observation of the images that have arisen from the unconscious, and inquiry into them, we may tap into messages we are bringing to ourselves from our subconscious, our inner child, our Divine Mother.
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I offer both individual and group Sand Play options. Contact me for more information.
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What People Say
Joan S.
Nancy L.
Julie's presence, her ability to listen deeply, and her skill in assisting one to reflect, question and uncover one's own knowing and insights is powerful. Every aspect of our life can teach us. To do our spiritual work with an experienced guide can be an incredible support in our process of growth and transformation. Julie is such a guide.
Julie listens intently and is present and open. Our meetings, her questions and wisdom, have all helped to guide me. I recommend her to anyone who wants an honest and kind Spiritual Director.
