Here at last is a book that deals seriously and comprehensively with the rapidly growing field of spiritual direction. Spiritual Direction offers practical help to those clergy and laypersons who are responsible for the spiritual lives of other people. Spiritual Direction encourages spiritual directors to take their responsibilities seriously and professionally, moving spiritual direction away from "cozy little chats" to the "cold, hard slab" of the examining table. Equipped with certain skills--a keen knowledge of human psychology and an awareness of biblical and contemplative traditions--the spiritual director objectively examines the client, then offers concrete guidance for the spiritual life of the client.As a prominent figure in pastoral theology and Anglican spirituality for three decades, Martin Thornton is uniquely qualified to offer us insights into spiritual direction. He restores credibility and professionalism to spiritual direction, which is at once hard, analytical, and supportive. Thornton writes with wit, common sense, and an absence of sentimentality on a topic that calls for serious attention.Spiritual Direction is important reading for the increasing numbers of laypeople involved in spiritual direction, as well as for clergy and pastoral counselors.