Systems, methods and devices for delivering stimulating energy with a lead having a directional electrode are disclosed. The lead includes a directional electrode having an electrically active portion configured to emanate stimulating energy from an exposed portion of the directional electrode. The lead also has an electrically insulating portion around at least part of the circumference of the lead. The electrically insulating portion is configured to insulate surrounding muscle and/or tissue from the stimulating energy when the lead is implanted in the patient.
