An anamchairde, or soul friend, is a ministry of companioning, an ancient practice expressed through listening and reflecting on one’s life journey, discernment, and attending to God’s call in everyday life.
a speaking voice to which we continually return.
What happens in our time together
I listen to you so you can hear your truths. Sessions are one hour long and typically occur once a month. They can be in person or online. You decide the agenda and what you’d like to focus on. My role is to support you and serve as your witness throughout the process.
We’ll start and finish with silence or guided meditation to help us stay grounded and present. I can select brief readings for reflection, or you are welcome to bring poems or quotes that hold personal significance.
I believe life is a soul journey; life’s hardships have spiritual threads woven through them. In that, having our conversation, I will support your growth, explore spiritual practice and be respectful of how you deepen your relationship with the Sacred. When facing a difficult decision, discussing your thoughts with someone who listens objectively helps you process your experiences more effectively.
Sessions may include:
Ignatian contemplation
Examen is a means of seeking a deeper understanding of our lives, thoughts and actions. You always have the option to choose what suits you best. This is your moment, a time to connect with your inner self.
Dreamwork
Dreams are like guides during discernment, offering us precious insights into our soul’s special gifts and deepest desires.
They can inspire and support us in embracing a life that is truly ours, encouraging us to say yes to the unique gifts we alone can bring into the world. People of different faiths share dreams like Jacob’s ladder, and Buddha’s five dreams guided him to enlightenment, and Muhammad’s divine revelations came through dreams. Dreams have influenced religious views on the soul. Synesios, a fifth-century bishop, believed that in dreaming, the soul detaches from the body to see God’s truths. The dream’s source is God.
Exploring Sacred Circles through Labyrinth Walking
Carl Jung called the labyrinth a “universal archetype” because it appeared in most cultures. A labyrinth beautifully symbolizes our winding journey as human beings, reflecting the twists and turns we all experience.
Listening Prayer
This is a form of prayer in which we meet in a quiet setting to listen and invite God’s healing presence into a current dilemma or an unhealed memory. Listening Prayer sessions can often be a way to explore past trauma and wounds in a safe way. A friend is welcome to attend with the person needing this practice.
Art Journalling
Art and journaling help explore your thoughts and emotions through drawing or colouring. A lovely way to stay connected with the way the Divine speaks to you is to keep a florilegium—a little journal filled with verses that have truly touched your heart.
A member of the Spiritual Directors International (SDI)since 2022
Courses taken at SDI
Compassion-Based Internal Family Systems for Spiritual Companions, 2025. (Frank Rogers Jr)
Prayer Practices for Personal Growth and Service to Others, 2024. (Kathy A.J. Hardy)
Art Journalling for Spiritual Companions, 2023. (Colette Lafia)
Design and Build Your Own Labyrinth, 2022. (Lars Howlett)
Listening Prayer Training Workshop, 2020 (Katherine Murray)
A member of the AISGA, All-Ireland Spiritual Guidance Association.
Ongoing Supervision has been a key part of my learning journey, as I regularly review case studies with my supervisor and the Peer Supervision Group, which helps me grow and improve continuously.
For more information on Anamcharadas Training, please visit their website.