Rev. Shane A. Ash, D.Min.
Spiritual Director
Shane brings more than 25 years of experience in spiritual care through pastoral ministry, hospital chaplaincy, and his work as a Spiritual Director. His own faith journey has led him beyond rigid expressions toward a more grounded, curious, contemplative faith, and he welcomes those seeking a similar spaciousness in their lives. In his practice, he accompanies individuals from diverse backgrounds…some who are exploring faith for the first time, questioning their present beliefs, or deepening in spiritual practice. Shane’s work often supports those who are navigating addiction and recovery, faith deconstruction or exploration, moral injury, grief, and vocational or personal burnout. He offers a steady, reflective presence that helps people discern, integrate, and deepen their spiritual experience, meeting them with compassion wherever they find themselves on the journey.
In addition to his spiritual direction practice, Shane is the founder of Restwork, an inner-development program dedicated to supporting healthcare professionals and caregivers. While rooted in the same contemplative values that inform his spiritual direction, Restwork functions as a distinct professional offering—focused on the wellbeing, resilience, and leadership development of caregiving communities. Drawing on contemplative science and research-informed practices, Restwork provides reflective frameworks, Spiritual Accompaniment in professional settings, and training in contemplative leadership. The program helps individuals and teams navigate the emotional and moral demands of caregiving while cultivating dignity, humility, and sustainable presence.
Shane holds a Master’s in Pastoral Counseling, a Doctor of Ministry in Spiritual Formation, and a post-doctoral certificate in Spiritual Direction. His academic and professional interests center on the intersections of spirituality, theological imagination, and the transformative possibilities of contemplative practice and compassionate presence. Through his writing and teaching, he explores how spiritual well-being supports those who care for others—both personally and professionally.
Beyond his work, Shane and his wife, Ashley, are building a homestead in the Adirondacks, where they find joy in raising their three children, tending the land, and sharing good stories over good coffee.
Speaking Information
Shane is available for speaking at your event, church service, or retreat. Shane’s current speaking topics include:
Burnout & Wellbeing
- “Work and Wellbeing: Avoiding Practitioner Burnout.”
- “Human Being: The Work of Rest.”
- “Integrating Spiritual Care as a Trauma-Informed Practice”
Spiritual Formation & Discipleship
- “Teach Us How to Pray: The Transforming Practice of Attention.”
- “Relinquishing What Has Failed.”
- “(Re)Inspiring the Christian Imagination.”
- “Addiction and the Church.“
- “Faithfully Present in a Very Good World.”
Use the link below to contact Shane about speaking.
Find me on LinkedIn.
What people are saying…
“Working with Shane, I found a profound journey of self-discovery and inner peace.”
— Matthew A.
“Shane’s guidance helped me begin to overcome a period of deep struggle, find a new sense of hope, and engage in a process of continuous self-discovery.”
— Pat G.
Shane Ash 