STRATEGIC PLANNING & SELF-CARE RETREAT FOR THERAPISTS

Dhigurah Island, Maldives

February 20-26, 2027

Imagine stepping away from your practice, your responsibilities, and the constant demands of everyday life long enough to gain clarity, think strategically, and reconnect with what matters most.

Join us in the breathtaking Maldives for a transformative 6 night, 7 day retreat designed for therapists and practice owners who are ready to strengthen both their business and their wellbeing.

Surrounded by turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and some of the world's most incredible marine life, this intimate retreat combines strategic planning, professional growth, continuing education, self care, and restoration in a way that few experiences can.

Throughout the week, you'll develop a personalized 12 month strategic plan, gain a deeper understanding of the key performance indicators (KPIs) that drive sustainable growth, explore strategies to improve practice performance and client retention, and identify opportunities to strengthen the long term health of your business.

Through guided reflection, meaningful conversations, restorative experiences, and intentional self care, you'll have the opportunity to slow down, recharge, build resilience, and reconnect with your values, purpose, and vision for the future.

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, entering a season of growth, or simply craving time to think more intentionally, this retreat offers a meaningful return on investment, both professionally and personally.

You'll leave with a strategic plan, practical business insights, 10 continuing education credits, renewed energy, deeper resilience, and a clearer vision for the next chapter of your practice and life.

WHAT MAKES THIS RETREAT SPECIAL?

This retreat combines:

✓ Strategic business planning

✓ Personal reflection and renewal

✓ Intimate group connection + coaching

✓ Meaningful conversations with fellow therapists

✓ Incredible marine wildlife experiences

✓ Time for rest, adventure, and exploration

✓ One of the most beautiful destinations in the world

With only 10 participant (and up to 8 plus one) spots available, the experience is intentionally designed to foster meaningful connection, deep conversations, and individualized support.

 

THE MALDIVES EXPERIENCE

Your retreat experience includes unforgettable opportunities to experience the beauty and wonder of the Maldives.

Included excursions:

  • Whale Shark Excursion

  • Manta Ray Excursion

  • Nurse Shark & Turtle Excursion

  • Sandbank Experience

  • Underwater Photography

  • Group Drone Footage

  • Cultural Experiences on Dhigurah Island

Partners are welcome to join these experiences.

 

~Returning to Yourself

At the heart of this retreat is the belief that self-care is more than taking time off.

True self-care begins with reconnection.

We'll create space to explore:

  • What matters most in this season of life

  • Your values and priorities

  • Personal vision and purpose

  • What you've outgrown

  • What gives you energy

  • What you want more of moving forward

Through guided reflection, journaling, meaningful conversations, and intentional time in nature, you'll reconnect with yourself in a deeper way.

~Creating a Life That Supports You

Professional success should support your life—not compete with it.

Together we'll explore:

  • Sustainable self-care

  • Boundaries and energy management

  • Rest and recovery

  • Lifestyle design

  • Creating space for joy and fulfillment

  • Building a business that supports your wellbeing

Participants will leave with a personal wellbeing plan designed to support both personal and professional growth.

What We Will Explore

~Strategic Planning for Sustainable Growth

Gain clarity on where your practice is today and where you want it to go.

Together we'll explore:

  • Vision and future planning

  • Creating a 12-month strategic roadmap

  • Capacity planning

  • Sustainable growth strategies

  • Identifying opportunities for expansion

  • Aligning your business with your values

Participants will leave with a practical and actionable strategic plan for the year ahead.

~Understanding Practice Performance

Many practice owners make decisions without fully understanding the health of their business.

We'll explore:

  • Key practice metrics

  • Client retention

  • Capacity and utilization

  • Revenue and profitability

  • Identifying growth opportunities

  • Making informed business decisions

You'll leave with a stronger understanding of your practice and the confidence to make strategic decisions moving forward.

The Space

Our home for the week will be the charming Whaleshark Beach Hotel on the beautiful island of Dhigurah in the South Ari Atoll of the Maldives.

When most people picture the Maldives, they imagine the iconic overwater bungalows that often exceed $1,000 USD per night. While undeniably beautiful, choosing those accommodations would significantly increase the cost of the retreat.

Our intention with this retreat is to create an unforgettable experience that balances both value and luxury, allowing us to keep the retreat investment accessible while still experiencing one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world.

Instead, we have chosen a welcoming boutique hotel on the local island of Dhigurah, known for its stunning waters, pristine white sand beaches, and year-round whale shark sightings. This setting offers a more authentic Maldivian experience while still providing comfortable accommodations, exceptional hospitality, and easy access to the incredible excursions included in the retreat.

Just steps from the beach, participants can enjoy morning walks along one of the longest stretches of sand in the Maldives, relax with a book between sessions, snorkel in turquoise waters, or simply unwind and take in the natural beauty surrounding them.

Daily breakfast and dinner will be served at the hotel, with one hosted off-site lunch included during the retreat. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice.

While we hope this week provides an opportunity to unplug and fully immerse yourself in the experience, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel should you need to check in with family or your practice.

February is considered one of the most beautiful times of year to visit the Maldives, offering warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, calm seas, and excellent conditions for snorkeling, marine life encounters, and island exploration. Daytime temperatures typically range between 28–31°C (82–88°F), creating the perfect environment for both adventure and relaxation.

The beauty of this retreat is not found in extravagant overwater villas, but in the opportunity to slow down, connect with like-minded therapists, experience the wonder of the Maldives, and return home feeling renewed, inspired, and clear about what comes next.

 

Retreat Includes

  • 6 nights accommodation in Dhigurah, Maldives

  • Daily breakfast and dinner at the hotel

  • One hosted off-site group lunch

  • Roundtrip airport-to-island speedboat transfers

  • Harbour shuttle transfers to and from the hotel

  • Strategic planning workshops

  • Guided self-reflection and self-care sessions

  • Retreat workbook and planning materials

  • Whale shark excursion

  • Manta ray excursion

  • Nurse shark and turtle excursion

  • Sandbank excursion

  • Underwater photography experience

  • Group drone footage

  • Networking and mastermind discussions

Sample Schedule

7:00am Gentle Movement Activity, Beach Walk, or Guided Reflection

8:30am Breakfast

9:30am Workshop Session (2 hours) followed by Optional Coaching / Q&A Session (30 minutes)

12:30pm Lunch

2:00pm – 6:00pm Flex Time (enjoy the beach, snorkel, participate in an excursion, relax, journal, connect with peers, or simply recharge)

6:30pm Dinner, Evening Connection & Sunset Gathering

Excursion days may follow a modified schedule depending on weather conditions and marine life sightings. A detailed itinerary will be provided to participants prior to the retreat.

Dietary Requests

We strive to accommodate dietary requests to the best of our ability. Guests who have specific dietary requirements or restrictions are kindly requested to inform us in advance. By providing us with this information ahead of time, we will make every effort to accommodate your dietary needs during the retreat with our Chef. While we will do our best to accommodate requests, we cannot guarantee the availability of specific ingredients or guarantee a completely allergen-free environment.

Registration

Registration for the Strategic Planning & Self Care Retreat in the Maldives is $4,950 CAD (approximately $3,500 USD). There are 10 spots available.

For those wishing to share this experience with a loved one, a business colleague or a friend, a Plus One is able to join for $2,495 CAD (approximately $1,915 USD). There will be limited Plus One spots. Plus Ones are welcome to enjoy all accommodations, meals, excursions, island activities, and social events included in the retreat. They are also invited to attend workshop sessions and group discussions should they wish to participate, making this a unique opportunity for shared learning, reflection, and connection in one of the world's most beautiful destinations.

A $750 CAD/$550 USD non refundable deposit is required to reserve your place. Flexible payment plans are available over 1 to 6 months to support accessibility and budgeting.

Cancellation Policy

Due to the nature of retreat planning, significant expenses are incurred well in advance of the retreat, including accommodations, excursions, transportation, and other retreat-related costs. As a result, all payments are non-refundable and non-transferable, regardless of the reason for cancellation, including illness, travel disruptions, personal circumstances, or force majeure events.

Because this is an international retreat, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance, including trip cancellation and interruption coverage, to protect your investment should unforeseen circumstances arise.

If you are unable to attend, we will make every efforts to fill your spot from our waitlist if sufficient notice is provided in writing. We have done this successfully in the past. If we are able to replace your registration, any amounts paid may be refunded less the non-refundable deposit and administration fee.

By registering for the retreat, you acknowledge and agree to this cancellation policy. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Cultural Considerations

Dhigurah is a local Maldivian island with a warm, welcoming community and a rich cultural heritage. As the Maldives is a Muslim country, we ask guests to be respectful of local customs and traditions during their stay.

One important consideration is that alcohol is not permitted on local islands in the Maldives, including Dhigurah. Alcohol cannot be purchased, consumed, or brought into the country. Guests should be aware that customs officials may confiscate any alcohol brought into the Maldives upon arrival.

While the atmosphere on the island is relaxed and tourism-friendly, modest attire is appreciated when walking through the local village areas. Swimwear is permitted at designated beach areas and during excursions.

We view this as an opportunity to experience the authentic beauty and culture of the Maldives while enjoying a slower pace, meaningful connection, and a truly restorative retreat experience.

If you have any questions about local customs or what to expect, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Travel Information

Participants should book flights into Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, Maldives.

Upon arrival, a speedboat transfer will transport guests from Malé to Dhigurah Island. Roundtrip speedboat transfers are included in your retreat package, and detailed transfer instructions will be provided closer to the retreat date.

To ensure you have sufficient time to connect with the group speedboat transfer, we strongly recommend arriving in Malé before 12:00 PM on February 20, 2027. The scheduled speedboat transfer to Dhigurah departs at approximately 3:00 PM.

Please ensure you have a valid passport that does not expire within six months of your travel dates.

We recommend booking your departure flight from Malé for the afternoon or evening of February 26, 2027, to allow adequate time for the return speedboat transfer.

About Dhigurah Island

Dhigurah is a beautiful local island in the South Ari Atoll, known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and incredible marine life, including year-round whale shark sightings.

The island offers a relaxed and authentic Maldivian experience, with cafes, restaurants, shops, and one of the longest stretches of beach in the Maldives all within walking distance from the hotel.

Whether you're enjoying a morning beach walk, relaxing by the ocean, or exploring the island between retreat sessions, Dhigurah provides the perfect setting for reflection, connection, and renewal.

Travel Insurance

All participants of our retreat must secure appropriate travel insurance to protect themselves against unforeseen circumstances. Travel insurance should include coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and personal liability. Participants are responsible for obtaining their own travel insurance and should ensure that the coverage meets their individual needs and requirements. Please review your insurance policy carefully and contact your insurance provider for any specific questions or concerns regarding coverage.

Other Details

Not included: flights/associated travel costs, travel insurance, gratuities and select meal on own and any additional excursions or outings on own. Closer to date, detailed information including a suggested packing list will be provided. This is a wellness retreat, not psychotherapeutic in nature. 

Continuing Education Disclosure Statement

We are proud to offer a range of Continuing Education (CE) credits and opportunities. The availability and accreditation of CE credits depend on the background, nationality, and training of the facilitators leading each workshop.

It is important to note that within Canada, both provincial and national associations have their own unique regulations and requirements for CE recognition. While we strive to offer high-quality training that aligns with professional standards, we encourage participants to consult with their respective governing or clinical bodies prior to registration. This step will ensure that the CEs provided are recognized as accredited training in accordance with your specific professional guidelines.

We are here to answer any questions and support you in making the most of your retreat experience.

 

WORKSHOPS & FACILITATORS/HOSTS

Workshops led by and co presented by an experienced therapist, Nicole Ripley, MC, RCC, CCC and Tami O’Meara, M.Ed, RCC

Featured Workshops

1. Strategic Planning for Sustainable Growth: Building Your 12-Month Roadmap for Success
Step away from the day-to-day demands of your practice and focus on the bigger picture. Clarify your vision, identify strategic priorities, align your goals with your values, and create a practical 12-month plan for sustainable growth. Leave with a personalized roadmap designed to help you move forward with greater confidence, intention, and direction.

2. Understanding Practice Performance: The Metrics That Matter Most
Many therapists make important business decisions without truly understanding the health of their practice. Learn how to identify and interpret key performance indicators, improve client retention, evaluate capacity and utilization, and make informed decisions that support both profitability and long-term sustainability. Gain clarity on what to measure—and what to ignore.

3. Returning to Yourself: Reconnecting with Your Values, Purpose & Vision
As helping professionals, we often spend so much time caring for others that we lose connection with ourselves. Through guided reflection, journaling, and meaningful discussion, explore what matters most in this season of your life, reconnect with your values, identify what you've outgrown, and gain clarity on the personal and professional future you want to create.

4. Creating a Life That Supports You: Sustainable Self-Care & Intentional Living
True success extends beyond the walls of your practice. Explore sustainable approaches to self-care, energy management, boundaries, rest, and wellbeing. Develop a personalized plan to create a life that supports your goals, protects your energy, and allows you to thrive both personally and professionally.

Facilitators/Hosts:

Tami O’Meara, M.Ed, Registered Clinical Counsellor

Tami is a highly respected therapist, clinical supervisor, speaker, and educator with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals, families, and professionals navigate life's challenges with resilience, courage, and authenticity.

A certified EMDR therapist, Clinical Hypnotherapist, and Clinical Supervisor, Tami has dedicated her career to helping people heal, grow, and reconnect with their strengths. Known for her warmth, wisdom, and engaging teaching style, she has mentored countless therapists and healthcare professionals throughout her career, blending evidence-based approaches with practical tools that create meaningful and lasting change.

Long before she became a leader in the mental health field, Tami was breaking barriers as one of the first female high school quarterbacks in the United States, earning national recognition as the "Quarterback Princess." Her story of perseverance, resilience, and challenging expectations has inspired audiences for decades and continues to shape her work today.

Throughout her career, Tami has become known for helping people reconnect with themselves, navigate transitions with confidence, and create lives rooted in purpose, balance, and wellbeing. Her approach combines deep clinical expertise with genuine authenticity, making her a sought-after speaker, trainer, and retreat facilitator.

At the Strategic Planning & Self-Care Retreat, Tami will guide participants through the self-care and personal growth components of the experience, helping therapists reconnect with their values, strengthen their resilience, and create a life that supports both personal fulfillment and professional success.

Nicole Ripley, BA, MC, Registered Clinical Counsellor & Group Practice Owner

Nicole Ripley is a therapist, entrepreneur, and practice owner who is passionate about helping therapists build thriving, sustainable businesses without losing sight of their values, wellbeing, or purpose.

With over a decade of experience as a clinical therapist, clinical supervisor, and group practice owner, Nicole has grown a multi-location organization of more than 110 team members, including over 70 therapists, across 10 locations. Through strategic planning, operational excellence, and a commitment to sustainable growth, she has built one of Canada's leading group practices while maintaining a strong focus on clinical quality, innovation, and team culture.

Nicole is passionate about helping therapists step into the role of business owner with greater confidence and clarity. She has supported countless clinicians in developing strategic plans, understanding practice performance, identifying growth opportunities, and creating businesses that align with both their professional goals and personal values.

Drawing from her experience in leadership, business development, and practice growth, Nicole brings a practical, authentic, and relatable approach to teaching. Her work focuses on helping therapists move beyond overwhelm, make informed business decisions, and create intentional plans for the next chapter of their practice and life.

When she's not leading her team or developing new initiatives, Nicole enjoys traveling, investing, and creating opportunities for therapists to connect, learn, and grow together.