Sharon Hudak

trained spiritual director

I am a trained spiritual director, sacred musician, and contemplative prayer enthusiast, offering compassionate listening and group spiritual direction in Plano, Richardson, Frisco, and Allen, Texas. I believe that deep respect, compassion, awe for the holy, and mutuality in spiritual direction are best expressed by the term “reverent listening”—the name of my practice. In this sacred space, your stories and concerns are honored, respected, and cherished. The holy is revered as you understand it, and I hold a profound sense of awe at its movements in our sessions and in our lives.

An astonishing unfolding has marked my journey; I found myself entrusted with the confidences and stories of others, often finding myself speaking words of encouragement that seemed to arise from a place deeper than conscious understanding. This transition, from a quieter existence to one of openness and invitation, brought both joy and uncertainty. Guided by my pastor’s encouragement, I sought the support of a compassionate listener at Retreat House. In that nurturing space, upon sharing my experience, I was gently affirmed: “God is already using you as a spiritual director; that is why people who are barely your acquaintances are approaching you in this way.” With this revelation, I felt both amazed and humbled, and then began my formal training through the SMU Certificate of Spiritual Direction program.my studies at Perkins, individual spiritual direction, and experiences as a student practitioner, I came to recognize and honor the light of the Spirit within myself.

Through this process, I have experienced spiritual life as a never-ending path, twisting from shadow into light, and from being bound by expectations and limitations—both those I placed on myself and those imposed by others and society—into the freedom of becoming my true self. It is my great privilege to accompany others through their own seasons of self-discovery on their unique journeys toward spiritual freedom, helping them find the light that shines within.

My particular interests include career changes, retirement, caregiver exhaustion, church division, the challenges faced by worship leaders and musicians, and contemplative prayer. As a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)—a trait shared by 15–20% of the population—I am eager to assist others navigating heightened sensitivity to emotional, physical, environmental, and social stimulation. I have also faced life-altering physical trauma, which deepens my empathy and desire to be present with others in their struggles and triumphs.

I am a classically trained musician, currently teaching and performing with flute, piano, and voice in the Dallas area. I serve as a pianist and worship leader at a local church. Before turning to music full-time, I worked in the corporate world as an engineer, technical manager, and marketing communications manager. I hold a Certificate in Spiritual Direction from SMU Perkins School of Theology, a Master of Arts in Music from Texas Woman’s University, a Master of Science in Management from Purdue University, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Oklahoma. I have lived all over the United States, graduated from high school in Shreveport, Louisiana, and now reside in Plano, Texas. I am married with a grown son and volunteer as a cat foster for the Richardson Humane Society. I am also a gardening and native plant enthusiast and enjoy creating spaces for pollinators.