Rest. Root. Rise.
what is spiritual direction?
Like a mirror held gently before the soul, spiritual direction reflects back the light that is already there, inviting you to walk more freely in its glow. It is not about answers, but about accompaniment; a companioning presence that helps you lean into mystery, hear the whispers of the sacred, and trust the unfolding of your own inner journey.
does one have to be religious for spiritual direction?
No. You do not have to be a part of a specific religion to seek spiritual direction. Some coming for spiritual direction have perceived the heavy hand of the institutionalized church as an impediment to their lived experience of faith. Although their heritage is rooted in a specific religion, they now believe that their spirituality stems from lived experience rather than any single tradition. At Saguaro Roots, we are honored to work with directees from various religious and spiritual backgrounds, as well as those with no religious background.
meet jen
interfaith spiritual director
founder/owner of saguaro roots spiritual direction, llc.
Hi! I am the founder and owner of Saguaro Roots Spiritual Direction, LLC. I received my certificate in spiritual direction from The Phoenix Center for Spiritual Direction. In addition, I hold a doctorate in audiology from A.T. Stills University. With 3+ years as a spiritual director, I am dedicated to supporting individuals on their unique journeys of meaning, faith, and personal growth. With an interfaith approach, I honor the wisdom found across diverse spiritual traditions, creating a compassionate and inclusive space for exploration. Committed to LGBTQ+ affirmation, I provide a space of authenticity, honoring all people's identities and the sacredness of each person’s path. Drawing on deep listening and open-ended questions, I help directees navigate life transitions, cultivate inner clarity, and deepen their connection to the Divine, however they understand it. My approach blends reflection and contemplative practices, fostering a supportive environment where questions, doubts, and discoveries are welcomed. Whether walking alongside someone through spiritual struggle or helping them discern next steps, my work is grounded in empathy, respect, and the belief that every journey is sacred.
Born and raised in Tempe, Arizona, I have lived my entire life in the Sonoran Desert and am proud to call it still home. When I’m not engaged in spiritual direction, I enjoy spending time with my husband and son, immersing myself in nature, reading, gardening, stewarding our Little Free Library, and taking frequent trips to Flagstaff, Arizona, where I trade saguaro cacti for pine and aspen trees for a time.
authentic story-telling is powerful.
be you. share your story.
At Saguaro Roots, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of what is celebrated. This translates into creating an environment where everyone can bring their authentic selves to a session/class/retreat.
Commitment to these values remains unwavering, and they are at the center of Saguaro Root’s mission to accompany every individual as they deepen their relationship with the Divine/God/Universe. Having varied images of the Sacred helps us understand our diversity.
Testimonials
“Jen and I sat together for three years, and in that time I became accustomed to her deftness as a spiritual companion and listener. Their way is one that feels consummately merciful. Jen watched me thrive, struggle, and return again (and again) to the only well that does not run dry. As a Christian, she helped me recenter on a relational, trinitarian, and deeply felt theology. Jen also helped shape my heart for those disenfranchised by our largest church institutions - particularly those of us in the LGBT community. I give Jen my highest recommendation.”
-D.R.
“I had never worked with a spiritual director prior to working with Jen, but she was highly recommended by my former pastor, who saw the need for spiritual direction in my life. The first session with Jen, I knew I would feel safe sharing with her the hard parts of my story. Working with her was a gift. She was able to help me see God as a loving, kind, and merciful father, opening up new worlds in my heart and mind that have allowed me to fall deeper in love with Christ and to walk with the Spirit, knowing I am loved and seen. I will always be grateful for the sessions I had with Jen and for the growth I experienced as a result of her work.”
- S.V.
“I remember our first meeting. I wasn’t sure what to expect. Coming from a life of conservative evangelicalism, the idea of working with a spiritual mentor seemed a bit odd to me. Jen was recommended by a close dear friend that I trusted, so I was willing to give it a shot. However, after only a few minutes into our conversation, I knew that this was a divinely planned meeting. I know for a fact, that my healing from spiritual trauma and abuse can be charted by the knowledge, love, and compassion of Jen. I don’t think that I have been able to navigate the spiritual storm that I was in without her guidance. I am blessed and fortunate to have her on my side in life.”
- M.M.