The CSD program is designed to accompany the Institute retreats for those who sense a call to become trained as a spiritual director. It is an optional 24 month program of additional training with a cohort of other like-minded people.

CSD is an online course completed with a cohort over 24 months. It includes: 4 Institute retreats 12 online classes (one every other month) 10 group supervision sessions and 1 individual supervision session Receiving a minimum of 12 spiritual direction sessions (one every other month) from one of Soul Shepherding’s Sr. Spiritual Directors Enriching reading assignments with short reflection papers on what you’re learning 20 spiritual direction sessions you lead with a friend or someone you’re ministering to — using practical tools that we give you

If you have never applied for the Institute, you will need to complete our application. You will also need to provide two references. (Have the people providing your references use this link: Reference Form.) Once you are accepted, you can confirm your participation by completing the enrollment form and making your first payment online or by mail to Soul Shepherding, 4000 Barranca Parkway, Suite 250 Irvine, CA 92604.

The cost of this program is $369/month for 24 months. This covers online classes, supervision groups and more. (The Institute retreats are included in this price).

Curriculum books and individual spiritual direction sessions are not included in the $369/month payment. Discounts for spiritual direction are available to students who meet with one of Soul Shepherding’s certified Sr. Spiritual Directors.

Soul Shepherding can offer partial scholarships for pastors and missionaries who are unable to pay the full tuition. These are provided on a case-by-case basis. If you are in need of financial assistance, please contact mark@soulshepherding.org.

Soul Shepherding’s CSD program is a cost effective way to receive spiritual direction training without the added time commitment and expense that often comes with seminary based programs (usually requiring a Masters degree). The CSD Program exceeds the certification requirements of the Evangelical Spiritual Directors Association (ESDA). You can find out more about those requirements at their website: Grafted Life Training Minimums.

Graduates are encouraged to be a member of the Soul Shepherding Network for leadership community, ongoing supervision groups, and a vault of extensive resources and tools. On a select “as needed” basis, Soul Shepherding invites qualifying graduates to apply to join our staff of certified Spiritual Directors. As a certified Spiritual Director with Soul Shepherding you will have your profile listed on our website and receive referrals.

If you are interested in becoming a Sabbatical coach or receiving an Enneagram tag, please email Robyn Jungeblut at robyn@soulshepherding.org.

If you have further questions about our retreats and the CSD program, we would be happy to meet with you. You can schedule a free Zoom call here or you can email Dave Rimoldi at dave@soulshepherding.org. We are here to serve and help you get started.