LGBTQ+ Couples Retreats and Workshops

No matter how in love you feel, life has a way of getting in the way and putting out the spark you once had. Sometimes all we need is a recharge to remind us of what really matters.

Every couple is different. Those differences should be not only celebrated but also be tailored to. When it comes to working on your unique relationship, you want an environment that is nurturing and inclusive. And you need counseling from people who truly understand the dynamics of an LGBTQ+ couple. You deserve expertise from someone who can help you feel more satisfied in your relationship. Couples retreats and workshops are an opportunity to restore your relationship without distractions, in a setting away from your busy life.

One Size Does Not Fit All

Do you find it difficult to thrive as an LGBTQ+ Couple in a heterocentric world? You may feel as though society doesn’t have a place for you, or is even against you. For this reason, you may carry shame or anger. These feelings not only affect you, but they also affect your relationship

LGBTQ+ couples, like heterosexual couples deal with the everyday ups and downs of close relationships, says world-renowned relationship expert John Gottman. Gottman also points to research showing that when it comes to emotions, we think these couples may operate with very different principles than straight couples,".

Do you find yourself wishing your relationship came with a "How To" Manual? A retreat or workshop can uncomplicate your relationship and bring you back to the basics. Retreats and workshops are hands-on. You’ll practice your communication skills, as well as other skills known to improve a relationship.

What Happens at a Retreat?

Couples retreats are designated time away for couples to reconnect with the help of relationship experts, typically therapists or counselors who specialize in relationships. Couples retreats, sometimes known as couples intensives, or weekend workshops are opportunities to learn about yourself and your partner like you never have before in a relaxing, uninterrupted environment that’s away from your normal day-to-day.
• Retreats typically start with a warm-up or assessment designed to gather information about your relationship. While retreats typically occur in a group, you don’t need to share anything personal in a group setting. The Couples Center’s retreats are completely private. You only share what you want with your assigned therapy assistant.
• Couples retreats are interactive and hands-on. You’ll do exercises that are both fun and educational. Outside of the sessions, in-person retreats allow you to enjoy your surroundings through recreational activities, fine dining, and relaxation.
• In addition to the skills you build in The Couples Center’s workshop, you’ll take home a 34-page workbook and you’ll have a post-workshop follow-up with counselors and owners of The Couples Center, Gal and Liron (a married couple). So your relationship can continue to improve!

Why Should You Go?

Couples retreats are not only for couples with issues. In fact, it’s better to attend before problems arise, that way you can learn to prevent issues from occurring in the first place. A workshop/retreat can just be a way to improve your connection by allowing you to better understand each other. Who doesn’t want that? Specifically here are some benefits of a couples retreat:

• Stronger friendship
• Deeper understanding of one another
• Spicier intimacy
• Better conflict resolution
• Knowing how to prioritize each other
• More open and honest communication

Some reasons why people attend a couples retreat:

• Sex and intimacy issues
• Recovery after an affair
• Financial pressure
• Parenting and blended families
• Empty nest challenges
• Midlife crisis
• Communication problems
• Constant conflicts
• Contemplation ending relationship

Focused Attention

Cut to the core issues that have been plaguing your relationship. Retreats happen mostly in a group setting, but there is also one-on-one time allotted for each couple to meet with the relationship expert.

Perspective

The physical environment alone is one way to see your relationship from a different perspective. Removed from the daily grind, where you might feel as though you’re going through the motions, a retreat takes you away from all that so that you can hone in on your relationship and what it truly needs.

It Can Be More Affordable

At first glance, a retreat seems expensive. If you compare the cost of a couples retreat to that of couples therapy, you’ll actually find that a retreat gives you “more bang for your buck”. After a weekend, you’ll walk away with new tools and skills you can use right away to improve your relationship. The results are immediate. Therapy, on the other hand, takes more time to see results.

Beyond a LGBTQ+ Retreat

LGBTQ+ Counseling

You can get the most out of your retreat by continuing the work through counseling, therapy, or coaching sessions. Our psychotherapists are sensitive to the specific needs of LGBTQ+ individuals and couples. We have therapists who are LGBTQ+ and therapists who are LGBTQ+ friendly. The Couples Center offers sessions both in-person and online. We know you want someone who really gets your personal experiences and needs, and our goal is to make sure we can support all identities and backgrounds.

LGBTQ+ Workshops

You may also benefit from one of our online workshops. Our Love Made Simple workshops take place over 2.5 days from the comfort of your home. You’ll gain the skills necessary to repair, rediscover, and reconnect all for a fraction of the cost of traditional therapy.