Embracing Brain Diversity in Spiritual Direction

Everyone has a spiritual life.

Whether that spiritual life is expressed through poetry or movement, silence or song, deep questions or steady rituals—each person’s journey is unique. And every journey deserves to be witnessed with compassion and care.

As spiritual companions, we’re called to meet people as they are. That means tending not just to life experience, identity, or belief—but also to brain diversity. Learning styles, communication preferences, sensory needs, rhythms of attention, and ways of processing the world vary from person to person. Our approach to spiritual direction should too.

Who Are We Talking About?

In this blog post, I’m focusing on people whose minds work differently than dominant norms. That includes:

Autistic people
People with ADHD or attention variations
Folks with intellectual disabilities or Down syndrome
People with dyslexia, dyspraxia, or processing differences
Those who learn best through visual, kinesthetic, or experiential means
Anyone whose way of being doesn’t fit into the standard expectations of “thinking” or “communicating”

This isn’t a list of deficits. It’s a celebration of the dazzling range of human brains. Other posts will explore physical disabilities, cultural and linguistic differences, LGBTQIAA+ identities, and more—but here, we’re honoring the beautiful diversity of ways to perceive, process, and relate. Not every term fits every person—and that’s okay. What matters most is that spiritual companions recognize this diversity and make space for the wide range of ways people experience the sacred.

Hands holding 7 colors of candles, CC0

Meeting People Where They Are: Practices of Hospitality

Spiritual direction isn’t about talking the “right” way or having tidy answers. It’s about showing up, listening deeply, and creating a space where someone feels safe enough to wonder, share, and grow.

Here are some practices that can help companions create more inclusive, flexible, and accessible spaces:

1. Ask about preferences, not just needs

Rather than assuming what might be “easier,” simply ask:

“What helps you feel most comfortable during our time together?”
“Would you like to communicate in words, movement, images, or something else?”
“Would a break or a sensory object be helpful during sessions?”

2. Use multiple modes

Offer options beyond words. Spiritual exploration can include:

Drawing or building (with clay, blocks, objects)
Movement or dance
Silence, humming, or rhythm
Visual prompts (photos, icons, colors)
Stories or metaphors
Ritual objects and tactile items

3. Normalize pacing and repetition

Some folks may circle around the same questions over time. Others might need longer pauses, or quicker jumps. Let the rhythm unfold without judgment.

4. Offer structure without rigidity

A short check-in ritual or session outline can reduce anxiety, especially for people who appreciate predictability. At the same time, leave room for fluidity when Spirit (or sensory overload) calls for it.

5. Practice consent every time

Consent isn’t one-and-done. Keep asking:

“Is this kind of reflection okay with you?”
“Would you like to pause, shift focus, or try something different?”
“Would you like to take the lead in this part?”

Allow for nonverbal answers too—gestures, signals, typing, or drawing can all be valid ways to say yes or no.

6. Reflect their sacredness

Too many neurodiverse folks have been made to feel broken or “too much.” Let every session reflect the truth: they are already whole. Already holy. Already worthy.

Stained Glass Mosaic of Many Colors CC0

Try It

One of the most powerful tools in spiritual direction is asking permission. And that includes asking about how directive to be.

Some folks appreciate structure. They may want the companion to guide the session, ask focused questions, or interrupt gently when they get off track. For others, that same approach may feel intrusive, controlling, or dismissive.

You don’t have to guess.

You can simply ask:

“Would it be helpful if I asked questions to help focus the conversation, or would you prefer more open space to share what’s on your mind?”

Or:

“If I notice we’ve moved away from what you said you wanted to explore today, would you like me to reflect that back, or just let the conversation flow?”

These kinds of conversations about consent—at the beginning of a relationship, and throughout—help create trust and make space for difference.

What About Spiritual Language?

Some seekers resonate with terms like Spirit, God, or Ancestors. Others may prefer talking about energy, presence, nature, or mystery. Still others may not name anything at all—and that’s okay. Use the seeker’s language. Trust their way of knowing. Follow their lead.

One Size Doesn’t Fit All—And That’s a Gift

There is no one right way to seek. No one right way to feel connected. Our brains are diverse, and our souls are too.

As companions, we can embrace that diversity—not as a challenge to “overcome,” but as a gift to receive.

May we listen with our whole selves. May we welcome all kinds of minds. May we continue to create spaces where everyone can explore the sacred in ways that work for them.

Beloved, you are whole, holy, and worthy.

Rev. Amy

For Further Exploration

• Walker, Nick. Neuroqueer Heresies: Notes on the Neurodiversity Paradigm, Autistic Empowerment, and Postnormal Possibilities – A foundational read on neurodiversity, identity, and the call for a more inclusive culture. https://neuroqueer.com/neuroqueer-heresies/

• Banyai, Charis Stiles. Disability as Spiritual Practice – Reflections from a UU minister and disability activist on embodiment, access, and sacred community. https://www.uua.org/braverwiser/disability-spiritual-practice

• St. Clair, Michael. Companioning the Neurodiverse Soul (article) – Practical advice for spiritual directors and chaplains who support autistic and ADHD individuals. https://www.spiritualdirection.com/articles/companioning-neurodiverse-soul

• The Autistic Self Advocacy Network – Offers insight and advocacy tools written by and for autistic people. https://autisticadvocacy.org

MoonForestBone

Sunday, April 20, 2025

Honoring All Kinds of Minds: Spiritual Tending for Neurodiverse Companionship