I'm writing to you all today with a renewed sense of energy and purpose after our incredible first staff retreat in New York City. It was so rejuvenating to have our team from across the country - New York, New Jersey, California, Florida, North Carolina - come together to learn, bond, and recharge.
The retreat kicked off with a rousing session of "puppy yoga" - a uniquely delightful experience of practicing our asanas with the company of some adorable four-legged friends. There's nothing like some puppy snuggles to ground you and get you out of your head. It was the perfect way to set the tone for our time together.
Next, we dove into some deep work, starting with a training from Michelle Mintz, LCSW, on how to best support couples in their healing journey. Michelle shared different approaches to working with couples and the team felt inspired and empowered to apply these techniques with our clients.
We also explored the nuances of working with groups with Laura McCloud, which is such an important modality for fostering connection and community. I'm so proud of the thoughtful, innovative approaches our clinicians are pioneering in this area and of the 12 groups we run each week.Â
And of course, we took time to review our intake process - the crucial first step in helping clients find the right path forward. This was a invaluable opportunity to fine-tune our systems and ensure we're meeting each person's unique needs with compassion and care.
But it wasn't all work and no play. We had the chance to spend time together, sharing meals, laughs, and stories. There's something magical about that feeling of togetherness, of being part of something greater than ourselves. I'm so grateful to have this incredible team at the Center for Intimacy RecoveryÂ
As I reflect back on our time in New York, I'm struck by how powerful it is to come together, to learn from one another, to strengthen our bonds. It renews my sense of purpose and fills me with hope for the work we get to do.Â
I know our clients can feel that positive energy too. When our team is firing on all cylinders, aligned in our mission and deeply connected, we're able to provide the highest level of care. That's what this retreat was all about - making sure we're operating at our best so we can continue to guide our community towards healing and wholeness.
Here's to many more retreats to come. The future is bright, friends.
With gratitude,
Gary Katz
The Center for Intimacy Recovery
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