Susan Wright, MA, Theology, Certified Spiritual Director

MY CREDENTIALS:

• Certified Spiritual Director, Horizons Program for Spiritual Directors, 2023.
• MA, Pastoral Theology, Bexley Hall Episcopal Seminary, 2008.
• PhD student in Jungian and Archetypal Studies at Pacifica Graduate Institute, a world leader in the academic study of Jungian depth psychology. 

MY STORY:

Raised in a secular family, which considered religion and spirituality old-fashioned, I grew up experienceing a sense of lack. Having suffered early trauma, I often wondered about the purpose of life. Where was god? How do we cope with human suffering?

During college I started searching in earnest, I experimented with different spiritualities and began my lifelong study of world religions. I was especially drawn to Buddhist teachers Thich Nhat Hanh and Pema Chödrön and the transpersonal psychologically of Ken Wilber,  John Wellwood, and Frances Vaughn. Seeking a spiritual practice, for two years I meditated weekly with the disciples of Hindu spiritual leader, Sri Chinmoy. Finally my path led to the writings of Trappist monks, Thomas Merton and Thomas Keating, and the Christian contemplative practice known as Centering Prayer. I've been centering ever since.

Eventually, I discovered spiritual direction, but I wish I had found it earlier. If I had, my path would have been less circuitous. Exploration is important and necessary, but too many wander in the desert without finding the answers or the nourishment they seek.

A spiritual director can help you find your particular path, your sources of inner guidance and a deeper, more consistent sense of the spirit's presence in your life.

I am a practicing Episcopalian who is open to all spiritual orientations. 

MY AREAS OF EXPERTISE:

Christianity: For twenty-five years I've been an active member in my Episcopal church, preaching, leading prayer groups and worship, teaching Christian education classes and serving on the Vestry. I've led a variety of groups inside and outside the church, including contemplative prayer groups, classes leading to Christian baptism, bible studies, a science & spirituality group, and Pub(lic) Spirituality, a casual group that met in bars and cafes. 

World Religions: I've taught religious studies, including the history of Western and Ancient Near Eastern religions. Before turning to Christianity, I spent substantial time exploring other religious traditions. For five years, I served on the organizing committee for the CNY World InterFaith Harmony Assembly.

Mimetic Theory: René Girard's interpretation of the bible and his understanding of human relationships contributes to most of my spiritual and theological work. At present, I serve on the advisory board for COV&R, the international association of scholars and practitioners utilizing and developing René Girard's mimetic theory. I served a three year term as president of Theology & Peace, a national organization dedicated to the theological application of René Girard's insights. 

Postmodern Philosophy: I am deeply influenced by thinkers John Caputo and Jacques Derrida, who introduced me to "the possibility of the impossible" and "hope and against hope." I cannot overemphasize their importance in my intellectual formation and spiritual life.

Jungian Dream Work: I've always been a vivid dreamer. I'm convinced the spirit comes to us in our dreams and in waking daydreams and intutions. Dreamwork is not only "the royal road to the unconscious," it gives us daily access to sources of healing, discernment, and inspiration. Engaging in dream interpretation with a trained spiritual director can substantially deepen a person's spiritual life. Spiritual direction is not therapy, but it can be especially helpful for those who've experienced childhood trauma, women who have suffered abuse, and individuals struggling with depression or anxiety.

Religious Affiliation: Since 1998, I've been an active member of the Episcopal Church. I wholeheartedly welcome atheists, agnostics, and clients from other religious traditions. My role is to accompany you on your chosen path. 

MY AREAS OF INTEREST:

• Contemplative Practices
• Dreamwork and the Intuitive Faculties
• Jungian Depth Psychology
• Active Imagination & Relational Guided Imagery
• Saints and their Impact on our Lives
• The Medieval Christian Mystics
• Jewish and Christian Origins
• Sacred Texts
• René Girard and Mimetic Theory
• Continental Philosophy of Religion, Deconstruction & Radical Theology
• The Biblical Prophetic Tradition: Then and Now
• The Ancient Near Eastern Wisdom Traditions
• Feminine Spiritualities
• Responses to Human Suffering
• Spiritual Responses to Childhood Trauma
• Non-Violence
• Coping with a World in Crisis 
• Spiritual Community

Please feel free to contact me using the information listed below.  I always welcome your questions.

Peace and blessings,

Susan Wright