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Therapist Retreat in South Africa

Nyosi Wildlife Reserve, South Africa

August 1st-8th, 2025

About the Retreat

Join a transformative 7-night, all-inclusive retreat designed for therapists at Nyosi Wildlife Reserve, where the natural beauty of South Africa meets professional growth. Earn 15 Continuing Education (CE) credits through the NBCC, APA, and EMDRIA while exploring the integration of Eco-Art Therapy and EMDR in trauma treatment. The retreat is open to both EMDR and non-EMDR therapists, offering specialized learning in Eco-Art Therapy techniques for treating trauma in individuals and couples. With limited spots available (only 26 participants), this exclusive retreat promises an intimate and impactful experience, blending professional development with cultural and ecological immersion.

Retreat Program and Schedule

The retreat program features a unique blend of educational workshops and immersive wildlife activities. Therapists will gain in-depth knowledge of Eco-Art Therapy and its application in trauma care through daily educational sessions. Group activities are interwoven throughout the schedule, including game drives to observe elephants, cheetahs, and rhinos in their natural habitat, a Fynbos walk to learn about the medicinal uses of local flora, and a sea cruise to spot dolphins, seals, and whales. Additional highlights include a traditional South African braai night, a bush dinner under the stars, and an interactive drumming workshop that offers a deep dive into the region’s cultural heritage.

Location and Venue

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the Nyosi Wildlife Reserve offers the perfect backdrop for this immersive retreat. The reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, cheetahs, buffalos, and rhinos, providing participants with unparalleled opportunities to connect with nature. The venue’s tranquil setting, combined with luxurious accommodations, ensures a restorative experience for mind and body. Nyosi Wildlife Reserve’s rich biodiversity and cultural experiences make it an ideal location to foster both personal and professional renewal.

Retreat Pricing and Cancellation Policy

$500 USD Non-Refundable Deposit

Standard Shared/Double Room (Shared with another attendee): $3,000 USD Per Person
Luxury Shared/Double Room (Shared with another attendee): $3,200 USD Per Person
Deluxe Shared/Double Room $3,500 USD Per Person
Standard Single/Private Room $3,700 USD Per Person
Luxury Single/Private Room $3,900 USD Per Person
Deluxe Single/Private $4,200 USD Per Person

$500 USD Deposit is non-refundable. 50% Refund if Canceled 60+ days before Start of Retreat, 25% Refund if Canceled 30+ days before start of Retreat. No refund if canceled 29 days or less before the retreat. Option to re-schedule your attendance may be provided and considered if balance has been paid in full. If the program must be canceled on the part of Wellness Counseling Inc. for unforeseen reasons, a full refund will be issued. In this case, Wellness Counseling Inc. holds no financial responsibility for changes to airfare and other miscellaneous charges.

Early Registration Discount Until February 1, 2025 ($200 off)

Additional $100 off if you identify as being from a marginalized group, students, interns, or unlicensed therapists. Non-Attending Guests are Welcome – Please reach out if this interests you, and I can provide you with more info on this option if it is available since space is limited.

arilda surridge wellness counseling inc

About the Instructor

Arilda Surridge is a Certified EMDR Therapist, an EMDRIA Consultant in Training, an approved Clinical Supervisor, and a Gottman Couples Therapy Level 3 trained therapist. She is also a Gottman Leader in Leading “7 Principles for Making a Marriage Work”. She is specialized working with trauma, anxiety, depression, and couple’s. Additionally she has focused and specialized experience with working with early trauma, complex PTSD, recent and ongoing traumatic stress, treating affairs, and treating other mental health providers.

Our Therapist's Testimonials

This will be a VERY Unique Experience! 🙂 Please let me know if you have any questions!

Reserve your spot today for our upcoming retreat in South Africa. We have several activities and speaking sessions planned so you can make your educational experience fun!

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