Step into a realm where wellness meets spiritual elevation—a sanctuary meticulously crafted by Dr. Gemma Andaya, a licensed psychotherapist specializing in mental health, substance abuse recovery, and trauma healing. Our retreats offer a tapestry of nature’s beauty interwoven with spiritual exploration, fostering deep connections and transformative experiences under the guidance of a seasoned expert.

Interpersonal Healing & Wellness Retreat
Where Sacred Meets Clinical

April 25th-28th
Joshua Tree, CA

 

October 10th-13th
Location TBA

Step into a realm where wellness meets spiritual elevation—a sanctuary meticulously crafted by Dr. Gemma Andaya, a licensed psychotherapist specializing in mental health, substance abuse recovery, and trauma healing. Our retreats offer a tapestry of nature’s beauty interwoven with spiritual exploration, fostering deep connections and transformative experiences under the guidance of a seasoned expert.

Meet Dr. Gemma Andaya: Visionary Facilitator and
Culturally Competent Spiritual Guide

Dr. Gemma Andaya stands at the intersection of professional expertise and spiritual leadership, guiding transformative retreats with a unique blend of clinical acumen and spiritual wisdom. As a first-generation American, she intimately understands the intricate balance of navigating diverse cultural landscapes, born to immigrant parents of Filipino, Mexica, and Tepehuanes descent.

Dr. Andaya’s journey—forged amidst poverty, addiction, and a quest for higher education—makes her a beacon for those seeking not just a facilitator but a spiritual leader who comprehends the nuances of straddling multiple worlds and finding identity within them.

With over a decade in behavioral health, Dr. Andaya bridges traditional healing modalities, such as entheogenic plant medicines and earth-based ceremonies, with her clinical expertise. She is currently pursuing certification in psychedelic-assisted therapy, focusing on the therapeutic potential of entheogenic plant medicines, and she passionately delves into this field under the guidance of a Maestra in Peru and a clinical model in the West through Beckley Academy. 

Her ongoing studies and commitment to this evolving field underscore her dedication to understanding and integrating ancient healing practices with modern psychotherapy. This journey led her to establish Point of Juncture Wellness, LLC, envisioning a fusion that honors both the clinical and ceremonial, a path that harmonizes modern and traditional healing approaches.

Her thirst for wisdom led her to learn from revered elders in both clinical and ceremonial domains. Now assuming a leadership role, Dr. Andaya shoulders the responsibility of positively influencing and inspiring future generations. Her mission? Creating accessible spaces where people, guided by both expertise and spirituality, can pause, heal, repair, and integrate.

Credentials and Guiding Light:

🎓 Educational Mastery: Gemma holds a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision, showcasing her unparalleled expertise in the field.

👩‍🏫 Guidance and Mentorship: Recognized as a Nevada-approved supervisor for intern counselors, licensed in mental health and substance abuse counseling in Nevada, she empowers individuals through comprehensive psychotherapy and counseling services.

🌿 Psychedelic Assisted Therapist: Dr. Gemma Andaya, a seasoned counselor and adept in psychedelic-assisted therapy, stands as a guiding force, seamlessly merging counseling proficiency with a profound understanding of holistic plant medicine healing. Her mastery in this realm facilitates transformative journeys, leading individuals towards holistic healing and inner enlightenment through the transformative power of plant medicines. 

Dr. Gemma Andaya is a visionary facilitator and spiritual guide, melding professional expertise with spiritual leadership to illuminate the path toward transformation and wellness. Her multifaceted guidance invites you to embark on a journey of profound healing and spiritual elevation.

Join Dr. Andaya on this path of spiritual enrichment and healing.

Meet Dr. Gemma Andaya: Visionary Facilitator and
Culturally Competent Spiritual Guide

Dr. Gemma Andaya stands at the intersection of professional expertise and spiritual leadership, guiding transformative retreats with a unique blend of clinical acumen and spiritual wisdom. As a first-generation American, she intimately understands the intricate balance of navigating diverse cultural landscapes, born to immigrant parents of Filipino, Mexica, and Tepehuanes descent.

Dr. Andaya’s journey—forged amidst poverty, addiction, and a quest for higher education—makes her a beacon for those seeking not just a facilitator but a spiritual leader who comprehends the nuances of straddling multiple worlds and finding identity within them.

With over a decade in behavioral health, Dr. Andaya bridges traditional healing modalities, such as entheogenic plant medicines and earth-based ceremonies, with her clinical expertise. She is currently pursuing certification in psychedelic-assisted therapy, focusing on the therapeutic potential of entheogenic plant medicines, and she passionately delves into this field under the guidance of a Maestra in Peru and a clinical model in the West through Beckley Academy. 

Her ongoing studies and commitment to this evolving field underscore her dedication to understanding and integrating ancient healing practices with modern psychotherapy. This journey led her to establish Point of Juncture Wellness, LLC, envisioning a fusion that honors both the clinical and ceremonial, a path that harmonizes modern and traditional healing approaches.

Her thirst for wisdom led her to learn from revered elders in both clinical and ceremonial domains. Now assuming a leadership role, Dr. Andaya shoulders the responsibility of positively influencing and inspiring future generations. Her mission? Creating accessible spaces where people, guided by both expertise and spirituality, can pause, heal, repair, and integrate.

Credentials and Guiding Light:

🎓 Educational Mastery: Gemma holds a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision, showcasing her unparalleled expertise in the field.

👩‍🏫 Guidance and Mentorship: Recognized as a Nevada-approved supervisor for intern counselors, licensed in mental health and substance abuse counseling in Nevada, she empowers individuals through comprehensive psychotherapy and counseling services.

🌿 Psychedelic Assisted Therapist: Dr. Gemma Andaya, a seasoned counselor and adept in psychedelic-assisted therapy, stands as a guiding force, seamlessly merging counseling proficiency with a profound understanding of holistic plant medicine healing. Her mastery in this realm facilitates transformative journeys, leading individuals towards holistic healing and inner enlightenment through the transformative power of plant medicines. 

Dr. Gemma Andaya is a visionary facilitator and spiritual guide, melding professional expertise with spiritual leadership to illuminate the path toward transformation and wellness. Her multifaceted guidance invites you to embark on a journey of profound healing and spiritual elevation.

Join Dr. Andaya on this path of spiritual enrichment and healing.


What to Expect?

🌺 Interconnected Workshops: Individual & group exercises aimed at bringing into awareness and sorting out that which is unconscious and impacting your relationship with self & others. Under the expert guidance of a licensed psychotherapist.
🌅 Ritual & Ceremony: Mindfulness practices and spiritual rituals, setting intentions for forgiveness, integration of selves, and interconnectedness.
🌿 Nature’s Embrace: Attend our relaxed nature outing or our more adventurous trek in Joshua Tree’s National Forest.
🏞️ Serene Accommodation: Private rooms, shared rooms, and tenting options available on a 5 acre private property.
🍃 Nourishing Meals: Enjoy wholesome, nutritious meals catering to recovery and overall wellness. Vegan, vegetarian & gluten-free friendly.
🧘 Relaxation & Play: Enjoy the game/karaoke room, zen garden, walking paths, hot tub, pool, yoga pavilion, library or volleyball


What to Expect?

🌺 Interconnected Workshops: Individual & group exercises aimed at bringing into awareness and sorting out that which is unconscious and impacting your relationship with self & others. Under the expert guidance of a licensed psychotherapist.
🌅 Ritual & Ceremony: Mindfulness practices and spiritual rituals, setting intentions for forgiveness, integration of selves, and interconnectedness.
🌿 Nature’s Embrace: Attend our relaxed nature outing or our more adventurous trek in Joshua Tree’s National Forest.
🏞️ Serene Accommodation: Private rooms, shared rooms, and tenting options available on a 5 acre private property.
🍃 Nourishing Meals: Enjoy wholesome, nutritious meals catering to recovery and overall wellness. Vegan, vegetarian & gluten-free friendly.
🧘 Relaxation & Play: Enjoy the game/karaoke room, zen garden, walking paths, hot tub, pool, yoga pavilion, library or volleyball

Itinerary Example

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Arrival and Check-in

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Welcome Lunch and Orientation

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Settling In and Introductions

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Guided Nature Walk and Grounding Session

5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Opening Ceremony for Spiritual Connection

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner and Free Time

Day 2: Exploring Wellness and Connection

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Morning Meditation and Stretching

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Breakfast

9:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Workshop: Self-Care and Wellness Practices

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Group Activity: Building Interpersonal Connections

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch and Free Time

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Optional Leisurely Adventure (e.g., Nature Hike)

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Workshop: Integrating Spirituality in Daily Life

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Reflection Time in Nature

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner

Day 3: Deepening Spiritual Practices

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Morning Yoga and Meditation

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Workshop: Deepening Meditation and Prayer Practices

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Group Sharing and Connection Circle

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch and Free Time

1:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Optional Extreme Adventure ( e.g., Rock Climbing, Kayaking)

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Relaxation and Integration Time

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Evening Ceremony for Spiritual Growth and Healing

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner

Day 4: Closing and Departure

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Morning Reflection and Gratitude Practice

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Breakfast

9:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Closing Ceremony and Sharing Circle

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Check-Out and Farewell

12:00 PM: Departure

Itinerary Example

Day 1: Arrival and Orientation

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Arrival and Check-in

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Welcome Lunch and Orientation

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Settling In and Introductions

3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Guided Nature Walk and Grounding Session

5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Opening Ceremony for Spiritual Connection

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner and Free Time

Day 2: Exploring Wellness and Connection

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Morning Meditation and Stretching

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Breakfast

9:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Workshop: Self-Care and Wellness Practices

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM: Group Activity: Building Interpersonal Connections

12:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch and Free Time

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Optional Leisurely Adventure (e.g., Nature Hike)

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Workshop: Integrating Spirituality in Daily Life

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Reflection Time in Nature

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner

Day 3: Deepening Spiritual Practices

7:00 AM – 8:00 AM: Morning Yoga and Meditation

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Workshop: Deepening Meditation and Prayer Practices

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Group Sharing and Connection Circle

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch and Free Time

1:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Optional Extreme Adventure ( e.g., Rock Climbing, Kayaking)

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Relaxation and Integration Time

5:30 PM – 7:00 PM: Evening Ceremony for Spiritual Growth and Healing

7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Dinner

Day 4: Closing and Departure

7:30 AM – 8:30 AM: Morning Reflection and Gratitude Practice

8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Breakfast

9:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Closing Ceremony and Sharing Circle

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Check-Out and Farewell

12:00 PM: Departure

The Benefits of Attending

Dr. Gemma Andaya’s retreats provide a holistic approach that intertwines recovery support with interpersonal wellness and spiritual exploration, guiding participants towards profound healing, self-compassion, and a deeper understanding of oneself. RSVP today to embark on a transformative journey towards holistic well-being and self-discovery.

Integration of Recovery in a Nurturing Environment: 🌿 Participants engage in a supportive environment that seamlessly integrates mental health and substance abuse recovery, fostering a safe space for healing and growth.

Enhanced Interpersonal Wellness: 🤝 Through shared experiences and connections forged during group activities, attendees cultivate profound interpersonal connections, fostering a sense of support and camaraderie.

A Gained Sense of Meaning, Spirituality, and Nature Connection: 🌟 Immerse yourself in nature, finding a deep sense of meaning, spirituality, and connection with the natural world, fostering a renewed appreciation for life.

Development of Self-Compassion and Trust: 🌱 Workshops and guided sessions facilitate the development of self-compassion, forgiveness, and trust in oneself, fostering personal growth and emotional resilience.

The Benefits of Attending

Dr. Gemma Andaya’s retreats provide a holistic approach that intertwines recovery support with interpersonal wellness and spiritual exploration, guiding participants towards profound healing, self-compassion, and a deeper understanding of oneself. RSVP today to embark on a transformative journey towards holistic well-being and self-discovery.

Integration of Recovery in a Nurturing Environment: 🌿 Participants engage in a supportive environment that seamlessly integrates mental health and substance abuse recovery, fostering a safe space for healing and growth.

Enhanced Interpersonal Wellness: 🤝 Through shared experiences and connections forged during group activities, attendees cultivate profound interpersonal connections, fostering a sense of support and camaraderie.

A Gained Sense of Meaning, Spirituality, and Nature Connection: 🌟 Immerse yourself in nature, finding a deep sense of meaning, spirituality, and connection with the natural world, fostering a renewed appreciation for life.

Development of Self-Compassion and Trust: 🌱 Workshops and guided sessions facilitate the development of self-compassion, forgiveness, and trust in oneself, fostering personal growth and emotional resilience.

Who is this for?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly and Intergenerational: Open to preteens, teens, adults, and elders, creating a harmonious space for individuals of verbal ages to partake in this spiritual and wellness journey guided by a licensed psychotherapist. Those underage must come with a parent/guardian. 

⭐ These retreats welcome individuals dedicated to holistic wellness, seekers of spiritual enlightenment, and those yearning for deeper connections, all under the professional guidance of Dr. Gemma Andaya, ensuring a harmonious, inclusive atmosphere. All backgrounds and levels of experience are warmly embraced.

Who is this for?

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly and Intergenerational: Open to preteens, teens, adults, and elders, creating a harmonious space for individuals of verbal ages to partake in this spiritual and wellness journey guided by a licensed psychotherapist. Those underage must come with a parent/guardian. 

⭐ These retreats welcome individuals dedicated to holistic wellness, seekers of spiritual enlightenment, and those yearning for deeper connections, all under the professional guidance of Dr. Gemma Andaya, ensuring a harmonious, inclusive atmosphere. All backgrounds and levels of experience are warmly embraced.

Our Commitment to Inclusivity,
Accessibility, and Healing

At POJ Wellness, inclusivity and accessibility are at the ❤️ of our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all. We are dedicated to ensuring that our workshops and activities are accessible to individuals of diverse abilities and bodies. Should attendees require special accommodations for full participation, we encourage open communication in advance to address specific needs and make the necessary arrangements.

In line with our dedication to inclusivity, we understand that not all activities may suit everyone’s abilities or preferences. Therefore, alternative options can be provided upon request to empower every participant to engage fully in the retreat experience, ensuring comfort and participation for all. 🌟

Moreover, cultural diversity is cherished and celebrated at our retreat. We wholeheartedly welcome individuals from all cultural backgrounds, valuing and respecting their unique heritage and perspectives. Our space is designed to honor diverse cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions. Attendees are encouraged to share their cultural experiences, fostering an environment where learning from each other enriches our collective journey. 🌍

As a healing space, we are committed to never perpetuating harmful “isms” including Racism, Sexism, Ageism, Classism, and Speciesism. Instead, we strive to create spaces conducive to healing from these “isms.” We prioritize cultural sensitivity, aiming to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. Our goal is to create a community that not only embraces cultural diversity but also celebrates the richness it brings to our collective experience. Through open dialogue and sharing, we weave a tapestry of shared experiences that deepen connections and transcend cultural boundaries, creating a truly inclusive and vibrant retreat community. 🌈

Our Commitment to Inclusivity,
Accessibility, and Healing

At POJ Wellness, inclusivity and accessibility are at the ❤️ of our commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all. We are dedicated to ensuring that our workshops and activities are accessible to individuals of diverse abilities and bodies. Should attendees require special accommodations for full participation, we encourage open communication in advance to address specific needs and make the necessary arrangements.

In line with our dedication to inclusivity, we understand that not all activities may suit everyone’s abilities or preferences. Therefore, alternative options can be provided upon request to empower every participant to engage fully in the retreat experience, ensuring comfort and participation for all. 🌟

Moreover, cultural diversity is cherished and celebrated at our retreat. We wholeheartedly welcome individuals from all cultural backgrounds, valuing and respecting their unique heritage and perspectives. Our space is designed to honor diverse cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions. Attendees are encouraged to share their cultural experiences, fostering an environment where learning from each other enriches our collective journey. 🌍

As a healing space, we are committed to never perpetuating harmful “isms” including Racism, Sexism, Ageism, Classism, and Speciesism. Instead, we strive to create spaces conducive to healing from these “isms.” We prioritize cultural sensitivity, aiming to foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. Our goal is to create a community that not only embraces cultural diversity but also celebrates the richness it brings to our collective experience. Through open dialogue and sharing, we weave a tapestry of shared experiences that deepen connections and transcend cultural boundaries, creating a truly inclusive and vibrant retreat community. 🌈

Creating safe, trauma-informed & diverse spaces for self-exploration & healing.

Creating safe, trauma-informed & diverse spaces for self-exploration & healing.

Here’s What Retreat Participants Have Said About Their Experience With Us

Dr. Andaya is an exceptional psychotherapist who holds spirit-centered retreats with empathy, expertise and reverence to indigenous teachings. Her astute preparation and personalized approach makes every step of the process, from intake to integration, smooth and supportive. I fully appreciated her transparency, answering my many inquiries, and the way she honors each person with so much care during the retreat. If you have the opportunity to join one of her retreats, and it feels aligned, heed the call. It will be a gift to your mental, physical, and spiritual self.

-Melly P.

Working with Gemma for our upcoming journey to Peru has been such a beautiful experience. She is well organized and often reaches out to check in and make sure all things are going well. I feel that she truly cares about others and has a very kind soul.

-Phillip S. 

Truly empowering, supportive, ingenious care. Dr Gemma’s practice is the safe space you’re looking. If youre looking for something beyond just a westernized perspective and ready for healing this is a place to explore.

-Clo L. 

Here’s What Retreat Participants Have Said About Their Experience With Us

Dr. Andaya is an exceptional psychotherapist who holds spirit-centered retreats with empathy, expertise and reverence to indigenous teachings. Her astute preparation and personalized approach makes every step of the process, from intake to integration, smooth and supportive. I fully appreciated her transparency, answering my many inquiries, and the way she honors each person with so much care during the retreat. If you have the opportunity to join one of her retreats, and it feels aligned, heed the call. It will be a gift to your mental, physical, and spiritual self.

-Melly P.

Working with Gemma for our upcoming journey to Peru has been such a beautiful experience. She is well organized and often reaches out to check in and make sure all things are going well. I feel that she truly cares about others and has a very kind soul.

-Phillip S. 

Truly empowering, supportive, ingenious care. Dr Gemma’s practice is the safe space you’re looking. If youre looking for something beyond just a westernized perspective and ready for healing this is a place to explore.

-Clo L. 

Retreats for 2024

Have you felt underserved by traditional Western medical treatments? If you find yourself seeking a deeper, more holistic approach to healing, our retreat offers a transformative alternative. 🌿🍃 Explore the profound benefits of plant medicines and indigenous healing practices that have been nurturing well-being for centuries. Our unique program integrates these ancient wisdoms with modern supportive therapies to guide you on a journey of true healing and self-discovery. 🌀🌌

Join our waiting list today and be the first to experience a new path to mental health that honors both the wisdom of nature and the depth of the human spirit. 🌱🌳 Our retreat is more than just a temporary escape; it’s a gateway to a new perspective on wellness. You will learn from experienced healers who are deeply rooted in traditions that view healing as an integrated process involving body, mind, and spirit. ✨🔮

Don’t let conventional treatments be your only path to recovery. Open the door to possibilities where healing is supported by the natural world and guided by centuries-old practices. 🌍🌺 Reserve your spot on our waiting list now and take the first step towards a rejuvenated life where peace and clarity await. Embrace this opportunity to transform your approach to mental health with a community that understands and supports your journey towards lasting well-being. 🕊️🌟

Experience a transformative journey at Dr. Gemma Andaya’s nature-immersed healing retreats, where the integration of mental health and substance abuse recovery converges with interpersonal wellness and spiritual exploration, guiding participants toward profound healing and self-discovery.

Retreats for 2024

April 25th-28th
Joshua Tree, CA

 

October 10th-13th
Location TBA

Retreat Cost:

$800-1100/PP

Includes:

  • workshops
  • lodging
  • nourishing meals
  • nature outings

Price does not include transportation to/from retreat.

Price varies on private or shared room, or tenting options. Limited to the first 16 attendees to RSVP.

 

Experience a transformative journey at Dr. Gemma Andaya’s nature-immersed healing retreats, where the integration of mental health and substance abuse recovery converges with interpersonal wellness and spiritual exploration, guiding participants toward profound healing and self-discovery.

FAQ

Accommodations

Accommodations range from shared rooms to limited availability of private rooms and camping options (bring your own tent/bedding), providing various options based on preference and budget. 

The retreat accommodates diverse dietary preferences, including options for meat-eaters, vegans, gluten-free, and other specific dietary needs. Participants can inform the organizers in advance to ensure suitable meals tailored to their preferences and restrictions.

Logistics and Schedule

The retreat schedule emphasizes the importance of group cohesion, comfort among peers, and relationship-building. While most workshops are encouraged for attendees to ensure a cohesive experience and foster connections, some self-care and wellness sessions are optional.

There is a balance between mandatory workshops to encourage a sense of community and optional sessions for personal wellness and relaxation.

While workshops are encouraged for group cohesion, attendees have the flexibility to choose self-care and wellness sessions. Additionally, more extreme adventures are optional, with alternative activities provided for those opting out to ensure a diverse range of experiences for everyone.

Health, Safety and Guidelines

Participants are encouraged to advise the organizers in advance of any existing health conditions to ensure appropriate support during the retreat. Individuals are also advised to bring necessary medications (e.g., inhaler, insulin, blood pressure reader) if applicable to manage their health needs during the retreat.

For the well-being of all participants, individuals experiencing flu-like or cold symptoms are kindly asked not to attend the retreat to maintain a healthy environment for everyone’s benefit.

Prior to attending, participants might undergo a health-related screening or provide relevant medical information. It’s important to note that individuals with untreated or unmanageable health or psychiatric conditions may not be suitable candidates for the retreat. This measure ensures the safety and well-being of all participants and helps maintain an environment conducive to healing and growth.

Efforts are made to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. Specific accommodation requests are encouraged.

Protocols are in place to handle emergencies or medical situations during the retreat.

Participants are provided with guidelines for behavior and engagement to maintain a respectful and nurturing environment.

 

Payment and Registration

The retreat offers various accommodation types including private rooms, shared accommodations, and camping options to accommodate different budgets and preferences.

The retreat follows a refund policy, typically involving a non-refundable deposit and a timeline-based refund for cancellations.

Some retreats may offer discounts or financial aid based on need or specific criteria. Please inquire at the time of filling out the questionnaire. 

Community and Interaction

At POJ Wellness, our dedication to inclusivity means ensuring accessible workshops and activities for diverse abilities. We provide tailored options to empower every participant, celebrate cultural diversity, and foster mutual respect, creating a vibrant, inclusive retreat community.

The retreat fosters community through guided activities, shared meals, and discussions, framed by agreements ensuring safety and comfort. While some exercises may initially feel uncomfortable due to their vulnerability, embracing discomfort often leads to profound personal growth within this supportive environment.

Follow-Up and Continued Support

For Nevada residents, counseling is available post-retreat (for non-Nevada residents, referrals for instate counselors can be provided). For everyone, resources for additional learning will be provided post-retreat. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to stay connected with the community through a Facebook group.

FAQ

Accommodations

Accommodations range from shared rooms to limited availability of private rooms and camping options (bring your own tent/bedding), providing various options based on preference and budget. 

The retreat accommodates diverse dietary preferences, including options for meat-eaters, vegans, gluten-free, and other specific dietary needs. Participants can inform the organizers in advance to ensure suitable meals tailored to their preferences and restrictions.

Logistics and Schedule

The retreat schedule emphasizes the importance of group cohesion, comfort among peers, and relationship-building. While most workshops are encouraged for attendees to ensure a cohesive experience and foster connections, some self-care and wellness sessions are optional.

There is a balance between mandatory workshops to encourage a sense of community and optional sessions for personal wellness and relaxation.

While workshops are encouraged for group cohesion, attendees have the flexibility to choose self-care and wellness sessions. Additionally, more extreme adventures are optional, with alternative activities provided for those opting out to ensure a diverse range of experiences for everyone.

Health, Safety and Guidelines

Participants are encouraged to advise the organizers in advance of any existing health conditions to ensure appropriate support during the retreat. Individuals are also advised to bring necessary medications (e.g., inhaler, insulin, blood pressure reader) if applicable to manage their health needs during the retreat.

For the well-being of all participants, individuals experiencing flu-like or cold symptoms are kindly asked not to attend the retreat to maintain a healthy environment for everyone’s benefit.

Prior to attending, participants might undergo a health-related screening or provide relevant medical information. It’s important to note that individuals with untreated or unmanageable health or psychiatric conditions may not be suitable candidates for the retreat. This measure ensures the safety and well-being of all participants and helps maintain an environment conducive to healing and growth.

Efforts are made to ensure accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. Specific accommodation requests are encouraged.

Protocols are in place to handle emergencies or medical situations during the retreat.

Participants are provided with guidelines for behavior and engagement to maintain a respectful and nurturing environment.

 

Payment and Registration

The retreat offers various accommodation types including private rooms, shared accommodations, and camping options to accommodate different budgets and preferences.

The retreat follows a refund policy, typically involving a non-refundable deposit and a timeline-based refund for cancellations.

Some retreats may offer discounts or financial aid based on need or specific criteria. Please inquire at the time of filling out the questionnaire. 

Community and Interaction

At POJ Wellness, our dedication to inclusivity means ensuring accessible workshops and activities for diverse abilities. We provide tailored options to empower every participant, celebrate cultural diversity, and foster mutual respect, creating a vibrant, inclusive retreat community.

The retreat fosters community through guided activities, shared meals, and discussions, framed by agreements ensuring safety and comfort. While some exercises may initially feel uncomfortable due to their vulnerability, embracing discomfort often leads to profound personal growth within this supportive environment.

Follow-Up and Continued Support

For Nevada residents, counseling is available post-retreat (for non-Nevada residents, referrals for instate counselors can be provided). For everyone, resources for additional learning will be provided post-retreat. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to stay connected with the community through a Facebook group.

Dr. Gemma Andaya’s nature-immersed healing retreats provide a holistic approach to recovery, intertwining mental health and substance abuse support with interpersonal wellness and spiritual exploration, guiding participants toward healing and self-discovery. 

Dr. Gemma Andaya’s nature-immersed healing retreats provide a holistic approach to recovery, intertwining mental health and substance abuse support with interpersonal wellness and spiritual exploration, guiding participants toward healing and self-discovery.