Couples Retreat

No. The “Between Men and Women” Couple’s Communication Retreat is not affiliated with any religion or spiritual organization. The retreat is inclusive and welcoming to all belief systems and backgrounds. The focus is on clear communication, emotional connection, and practical relationship tools.

Yes, absolutely. Many people attend this relationship retreat solo, often after a breakup or divorce, because they want to learn how to create a healthy relationship next time — without repeating old patterns. The fee for a solo participant is the same as for a couple, as the full program is customized for each participant’s situation.

Our programs are not typically covered by standard benefit plans. However, some employers offer a “Well-Being Fund” or “Personal Development Fund” that may reimburse part or all of your couples retreat program. It’s worth checking with your Human Resources department to see if this benefit applies to you.

No, the retreat complements therapy beautifully. This model does not interfere with existing therapeutic work — in fact, many psychologists, counsellors, and social workers have attended this couples communication retreat and found it enhanced their own professional approaches. It introduces practical tools that align well with conventional methods and can help both partners better integrate what they may be learning in therapy.  Having said that, this couple’s relationship retreat is a stand alone program and is very effective without therapy or counselling.

Yes — in fact, this retreat was designed for couples like you. This private marriage retreat does not rely on long emotional conversations. Many people are surprised to learn that lasting change doesn’t come from “talking more,” but rather from learning new ways of interacting that bypass defensiveness and deepen connection naturally. This retreat teaches exactly that — no forced sharing required. Even in the face of what has happened in the past.  It’s my professional experience that how people “think” the past should be dealt with and the most effective ways to deal with the past, re often very different.

“Success” means different things to different couples, but based on feedback from hundreds of participants, the success rate of this couples communication retreat is very high. Often, people that did the program over a decade ago let me know they are still using what they learned so many years ago.  Many couples who came in unsure about their future left with a renewed sense of clarity, understanding, and partnership. While no program can guarantee results, this retreat’s practical model has consistently helped couples restore trust, rebuild connection, and sustain the changes long after they leave.

Yes. This retreat is often exactly what couples in your situation need. It’s not about convincing anyone to stay — it’s about giving both partners a clear understanding of how they got here and what would be required to move forward, together or apart. Many couples who came in uncertain gained the clarity they needed to make a confident decision — and many ended up rebuilding their relationship from a much more informed and stronger foundation.

That’s a very real fear, and you’re not alone. Since 2008, only one participant has ever left mid-retreat — and he later returned years after asking to register. Today, every private marriage retreat in Calgary or online includes a valuable Bonus Call before the retreat, which allows me to explain what to expect, address each person’s concerns, and make sure both partners feel safe and prepared. You’ll know exactly what the experience involves before we begin.

That’s a common situation. If you’re unsure how to introduce the idea, reach out directly to me (Donna) by text or phone at 403-975-3723. I’ll coach you through exactly how to bring it up in a way that feels natural and non-threatening. It’s not something I can write out effectively here — it deserves a personal, one-on-one conversation. There will be no fee for this.

That’s a valid concern, and I address it directly during the retreat. While lasting change depends on willingness, self-discipline, and practice, I provide clear, repeatable exercises and post-retreat written materials so you can easily refresh what you’ve learned. Couples also receive guidance on how to remind and support each other, and optional follow-up coaching is available if you ever want a review or deeper clarity.

Yes — very much so. Divorced parents often attend this couples communication retreat to improve co-parenting communication and reduce tension. Whether you’re exploring reconciliation or simply want a healthier way to communicate for your children’s sake, the retreat offers clear, practical tools that can transform your dynamic. Some divorced individuals even attend solo to prepare for healthier relationships in the future.

Yes. Follow-up coaching is available for either one partner or both if you’d like extra support integrating the practices or working through a specific challenge. That said, the content of this relationship healing retreat stands on its own, and most couples feel confident continuing without further sessions.

Please plan to stay for the full two days. Every part of the retreat builds on the next, and leaving early would mean missing essential content. If possible, take a later flight or stay an extra night in Calgary so you receive the full value and continuity of the experience

We have a No Refund Policy, but rescheduling is easy. You can simply select another two consecutive days within two months of your original date. There’s a link earlier on this page that explains the reasoning behind the policy in more detail.

That’s a lovely gesture. Have her contact me (Donna) directly by email, text, or phone. I’ll provide clear instructions on how to handle the payment and registration details for the gifted retreat.