What to Expect
Prepare to unwind and recharge amidst the peaceful backdrop of Kashabowie River Resort. This retreat combines guided workshops, personal reflection time, and opportunities for relaxation. From tranquil lakeside views to thoughtfully curated activities, every element is designed to nurture your well-being. Expect a supportive, judgment-free environment where you can explore personal growth and healing.
Participation
Active participation is encouraged but not mandatory. You are free to engage in as many or as few activities as you feel comfortable with. This retreat is about meeting yourself where you are and respecting your own boundaries. Whether attending workshops, exploring nature, or simply resting, you have the flexibility to tailor your experience to your needs.
Food
Enjoy fresh, wholesome meals prepared daily, featuring a mixture of hearty foods and nourishing options to fuel your retreat experience. Each meal is designed to provide balance.
We are committed to accommodating a variety of dietary needs. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special dietary preferences are available upon request. Please inform us of your dietary requirements when booking so that we can ensure all your meals meet your needs.
What is EMDR?
EMDR is a structured therapy that encourages the individual to focus briefly on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the trauma memories.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms. Ongoing research supports positive clinical outcomes showing EMDR therapy as a helpful treatment for disorders such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, addictions, and other distressing life experiences – Emdria International Association.
During this 3-hour mini-intensive, we can begin a healing process for longer-term work, or you can choose a smaller issue to work on and clear out, it’s completely your decision what you bring to your therapist.
Schedule
Thursday
3 PM – 4 PM: Arrival
4 PM – 5 PM: Welcome Activity and Tour
6 PM: Dinner
7:30 PM: Nature Scavenger Hunt Intro and Campfire
Friday
6:30 AM – 7:30 AM: Greet the day
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Breakfast
9 AM: Smudge/Movement/Music
9:30 AM: Sound Bowl
OR
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM: EMDR Sessions
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM: Sound Bowl
OR
1:30 PM – 4:30 PM: EMDR Sessions
6 PM: Dinner
7:30 PM: Evening Activity
Saturday
6:30 AM – 7:30 AM: Greet the Day
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Breakfast
9:30 AM – 10:30 AM: Art/Nature
OR
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM: EMDR Sessions
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Yoga/Art
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Yoga/Art
OR
1:30 PM – 4:30 PM: EMDR Sessions
6 PM: Dinner
7:30 PM: Evening Activity
Sunday
9 AM: Smudge and Welcome to The Day
9:30 AM: Closing
10 AM: Brunch
Around 12 PM: Check Out
What to Bring
- Comfortable clothing for indoor or outdoor activities
- Sturdy, comfortable shoes for exploring the natural surroundings
- Personal toiletries
- A refillable water bottle
- Layers for the changing weather conditions
- Bathing Suit & towel -for swimming and sauna
- Bedding is provided – however, people can bring their own
- Dress for the weather – the autumn can be unpredictable in Northwestern Ontario (i.e. rain jacket, boots, hat, weather-appropriate clothing for warmth or cold)
More about your hosts and guides:
Carrie Nyitrai
I am a registered Master of Social Work (MSW) Counsellor and Certified Expressive Art Therapist (EXAT) as well as EMDR Certified Counsellor and EMDRIA Approved Consultant in the Thunder Bay Area.
I’m a clinical social worker and trauma therapist with extensive experience in helping clients of all ages who are struggling with the symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and attachment
challenges. Together, I will help you learn new ways of responding, connecting, and interacting with your child or teen – all the while maintaining the structure, consistency, and predictability that help
growing minds flourish. You then become the best version of yourself.
Leanna Marshall
Leanna Marshall was born in Thunder Bay and is a band member of Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug First Nation (Big Trout Lake).
Leanna is a registered social worker of 20 years. She graduated with her MSW from the University of Calgary in 2005. Leanna is a certified art therapist and EMDR clinician. Leanna is a dynamic clinician who uses a holistic approach combining EMDR, art therapy, and cultural teachings in her therapeutic practice. Leanna’s centre is her two daughters who provide much humour and vibrancy to the world.
Rochelle Lee
I am Rochelle Lee, MSW RSW counsellor and I am the Founder and Owner of Pivot Consulting & Coaching.
I am a leader, a counsellor, and a catalyst of change for children, youth, men, and women! I am EMDR trained and work in the field of trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief with all populations.
Tamara Byrne
I am a member of the BIPOC (B) Community. have a Master degree in social work and registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I am a member of the Ontario Association of Social Workers.
I offer individual counselling and psychotherapy services in Thunder Bay and Virtual services throughout Ontario. At that time, I found my passion in helping others and advocating for mental health awareness in our judicial, health care, and education systems. At that time, I found my passion in helping others and advocating for mental health. I am certified in EMDR therapy providing trauma informed care to clients across the lifespan.