Shane A. Ash, DMin

Spiritual Director, Founder of Restwork

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 spiritual journey has led him toward a grounded, curious, contemplative spirituality, and he welcomes those seeking a similar spaciousness in their lives. In his practice, he accompanies individuals from diverse backgrounds…some who are exploring spirituality for the first time.

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. Restwork is a distinct professional offering that is focused on the well-being, resilience, and leadership in caregiving environments. Restwork integrates contemplative science, virtue science, and human flourishing research — all via spiritual accompaniment — to support caregivers in forming a caregiver imagination and in building healthy organizational cultures and leadership. The R.E.S.T. Steps help individuals and teams navigate the emotional and ethical demands of caregiving while cultivating courage, compassion, humility, and attention.

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, the productive/prophetic/analogical/moral imagination, and the formative possibilities of contemplative practice and compassionate presence. Through his writing and teaching, he explores how inner-development strengthens 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. Shane’s recent speaking topics include:

Burnout & Wellbeing

  • “The REST Steps: Forming the Caregiver Imagination.”
  • “Integrating Spiritual Care in Clinical Environments.”
  • The Spirituality of the Workplace.”
  • “Nurturing the Spirit of Care.”
  • Rest & Work: That’s the Order!”

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.