What is a Release Retreat?

Imagine stepping into an oasis where you can immerse yourself in a journey of self-discovery and transformation. A release retreat offers an exhilarating experience, while providing a safe and supportive environment. You will practice letting go of stuck emotions and pent-up frustrations, and explore pathways to becoming your best self.

How Are We Doing It?

We will create, vocalize, and be a part of nature through listening circles, artwork, primal screaming/wailing. We will close out our time together resetting our nervous system with horses.

Why horses?

Horses possess unique qualities that make them particularly effective in helping reset the human nervous system. They are highly intuitive animals that respond to the emotions and energy levels of humans. Their ability to perceive and mirror our emotional states provides natural biofeedback, helping individuals become more aware of their own stress levels and physiological responses. The act of grooming or simply being near a horse can foster a deep sense of grounding and emotional stability, bringing the nervous system into regulation.

When and Where Are We Doing It?

Naturally Unbridled Counseling in conjunction with Heart Art Healing’s Release Retreat, will be held on March 22, 2025, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Stanwood/Arlington area.

Cost is $325.00

This retreat will be limited to 10 participants to ensure individualized attention for all.

Things to Consider

Clothing and attire: We will be outside in the elements. Please dress in layers and be prepared for rain and mud (raincoat, rubber boots). Wear clothes you are not afraid to get dirty.

Meet the Team

  • Laura Mote, LICSW

    Therapist

    TLDR: In a nutshell, I wholeheartedly believe in the power of self-care, relationships, and a good scream.

    I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a twist – a dash of sarcasm, a sprinkle of curiosity, and a whole lot of dedication.  My background is textured with real-life experiences, including a fascinating journey with horses that led me to the Natural Lifemanship Institute (NL). Here, I learned that "relationships are the vehicle for change.” So, what’s my therapeutic philosophy? Simply put, it's about relationship and rhythm. Just like a good dance, life requires a sense of timing and flow.  When life’s rhythm is off, I step in with an approach rooted in the neurobiology of trauma and attachment, coupled with a hearty dose of rage and release to foster healing and growth. 

  • Samantha Heath

    Equine Specialist

    Sam's childhood love of horses began with her first pony at 8 years old and she has rarely been without one (or three) nearby ever since.  As the owner of The Flying Filly, she has run boarding stables, given riding lessons, participated in numerous riding clinics, organized retreats and offers Equine-Facilitated Learning and Psychotherapy out of her home/barn in Stanwood. She received HEAL Facilitator certification in 2008, and both EAGALA certification and HorseBoy Method Training in 2010. 


  • Cynthia Gahan

    Artist, Teacher, Life Coach, Meantal Health Advocate

    Cynthia Gahan is an artist, teacher, life coach, mother, and mental health advocate. She is a volunteer educator with NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, and family advisor for the Seattle Children’s Hospital. Her greatest passion is to teach others about the healing power of art and creativity, and she aims to reach at-risk populations to spread the message of hope and healing through creative practice. Cynthia has founded Heart Art Healing, a nonprofit organization to provide a supportive environment for individuals to REFLECT, EXPRESS, and EMPOWER self, while building resilience and exploring the intuitive art process.

    https://www.heartarthealing.com

Let’s grow together.

Interested in participating in a Release Retreat? Fill out some info, and we will get in touch shortly! We can't wait to hear from you.