I am a vibrant and discerning spiritual director with a passion for fostering intimacy with God and spiritual growth in peoples’ lives. My former work as a French instructor, medical interpreter and wilderness guide, as well as years living and studying abroad, make a colorful palette of life experience that informs and enriches my work in spiritual direction.
My practice is diverse. I offer individual and group spiritual direction, lead retreats, facilitate labyrinth walks and contemplative wilderness hikes, teach on matters of the heart, and nurture contemplative practices. I serve a variety of directees including young adults, teachers, divinity students, activists, chaplains and pastors, all coming from diverse denominational backgrounds. I support women clergy and queer clergy in the unique challenges of their call. I foster healing among those who have suffered spiritual abuse, and those who struggle with a sense of vocational failure. For others who wrestle with a deep sense of God’s absence, I bring compassionate presence. Together, we listen for the Spirit who is mysteriously holding and sustaining them, even in the darkness.
I am passionate about the natural world and grateful for opportunities the wilderness offers to connect with God, myself and others. In 2020, I relocated from Philadelphia to Black Mountain, NC to make my home in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I currently live in Old Fort, NC and look forward to extending my practice both remotely, and in this beautiful place.
Education & Professional Experience
- MA in Christian Holistic Spirituality & Spiritual Direction, Chestnut Hill College, PA
- Spiritual tradition & Areas of focus: Ignatian spirituality, eco-spirituality, Christian mystical spirituality; ongoing vocational discernment, shifting spirituality, dark night of the soul, spiritual healing & recovery
- Worship: House of Mercy, Asheville
- Accountability: Spiritual direction, peer supervision
- Professional Experience
- Swanson Spiritual Life: 2010 – present
- Spiritual Formation Director, Holden Village, Chelan, WA
- Spiritual Director, Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, NJ
- Spiritual Director, The Middleton Center, Bryn Mawr, PA
- Director, Center for Faith and Life, First Baptist Church of Asheville (2025)
- Member: Spiritual Directors International
Contact Me
If you would like to explore the possibility of working together, please contact me through the form below. I look forward to hearing from you!
Swanson Spiritual Life 