Spiritual Direction by Webcam

Meeting by webcam works well if no spiritual directors are available near you, or if you want a wider choice of spiritual directors than you currently have.  

Eight Advantages of Spiritual Direction by Webcam

While spiritual direction by webcam may not be for everyone, it does offer advantages:

• If you don’t already have a webcam (or even if you just want to buy a better one), I’ll give you a free second session in addition to the free first session that I normally give.
• I’m as close to you as your personal computer.
• You can meet me without ever leaving your home or office.
• You save the expense of gas and mileage.
• You reduce CO2 emissions and other travel costs related to the environment.
• You don’t spend precious time driving long distances to meet a spiritual director who lives far away.
• I’m available to meet you during the day, the evening, or on weekends.
• If you wish, you and I can continue to work together even if you move to a new part of the country.

Technical Requirements

You only need four things (maybe an optional fifth):

• A computer.
• A high-speed internet connection using DSL, cable, or satellite.
• A good quality webcam that allows me to see you clearly. I use one of the best webcams available so you have a good view of me. If you need to buy a webcam, or if you want a better one, then I’ll defray your cost with a free second session. (I can offer you suggestions on excellent webcams to buy.)
• Instant messaging software that allows us to see and hear each other. I use Skype, an internet phone and video program, which is free to download and use. If your computer has a dual core processor and you use one of the better Logitech webcams, we can see each other in high-definition video.
• Optional:  A headset with a microphone and earpiece(s) so that we can talk to each other. But you likely won’t need this if your webcam has a built-in microphone and if your computer has speakers. But if you’d like to buy a headset, your second session is free.

Meeting in Person

Sometimes we may be able to meet each other in person.

• If you’re traveling through northern Indiana, or if I’m traveling to your area of the country, perhaps we can meet in person. I’ll try to work out these details with you to the best of my ability.

Fees

The first hour-long session is free. The second session is also free if you need to buy, or want to buy a better quality, webcam and/or headset.

Fees for subsequent one-hour sessions range from $50 to $80, based on your financial ability (you pick the amount). Many congregations provide pastors with a continuing education allowance or similar fund that you can probably use for spiritual direction. (It’s wise to check with your church treasurer or other appropriate congregational leader about this.) If you’re not a pastor, your organization may offer a fund that you can use for spiritual direction. Some leaders choose to pay from their own funds.

If you wish I can send you, or your employer, an invoice after each session from which payment can be made. You may pay using a check or PayPal.

Security and Confidentiality

Because I want our conversations to be as secure as possible, I take the following steps:

• I use Skype, an encrypted internet phone and video program, which is more secure than email messages.
• I maintain an up-to-date security suite on my computer.
• I treat our conversations respectfully and confidentially to the extent of the law.
• I uphold the ethical guidelines of Spiritual Directors International, of which I am a member. I you want a copy of these guidelines, I can mail you one.

You may contact me using the form below. (Please make sure your email address is correct.)