Regulate & Relate Retreat 2026

Spend a restorative day slowing down, reconnecting with yourself, and learning practical tools for nervous system regulation through experiential activities with horses, mindfulness, movement, and nature-based practices.

October 17, 2026
8:30 am – 4:30 pm

Cross Keys Equine Therapy
6107 Horse Farm Lane
Port Republic, VA 24471

What You’ll Experience ->
  • Intentionally small group size
  • Group experiential sessions with horses
  • Facilitated by licensed/license-eligible mental health professionals
  • Afternoon breakout sessions focused on movement, regulation, and self-awareness
  • Immersive nervous system-focused experiences in nature
  • Psychoeducation and tools you can actually use in daily life
Who is this for? ->

This retreat is designed for adult women seeking space to slow down, reconnect with themselves, and cultivate greater nervous system regulation, self-awareness, and authentic connection. It may be especially meaningful for women feeling overwhelmed, emotionally disconnected, stuck in patterns of stress or overfunctioning, or simply longing for rest, grounding, and deeper connection with themselves and others. No prior horse experience is necessary.

What is the investment? ->

Retreat registration is $250.

Your retreat registration includes a full day of thoughtfully curated wellness experiences designed to support nervous system regulation, authentic connection, and meaningful self-reflection in a peaceful farm setting.

Additionally you get:

  • Breakfast bites & coffee at check-in
  • Lunch provided
  • Experiential workshops with horses
  • Professional staff with specialized training in nervous system regulation practices
  • Breakout small group workshops with focus on topics such as restorative movement, internal resourcing, journaling, or body-based wellness experiences
  • An intentionally small-group environment that allows for deeper connection, reflection, and individualized attention
  • A retreat workbook/resources packet with practices and tools to continue beyond the day
Do I need horse experience? ->

No horse experience necessary!

All sessions will be done on the ground, without any riding work.
We will be working with Cross Keys Equine Therapy program horses. Sessions will be facilitated with teams of mental health professionals and equine professionals.

Our goal is to provide experiential activities that feel grounding, thoughtful, safe, and meaningful.

Who will be guiding the sessions? ->

Cross Keys Equine Therapy staff is trained under Natural Lifemanship. Our team of mental health professionals and equine professionals, in partnership with our horses, will be facilitating retreat activities.

Retreat Director: Austin Francis, LPC

Check out our Staff bios: Click Here!

What should I bring? ->

**Participants MUST wear closed-toed shoes when around the horses (sneakers, hiking shoes, boots)**

Wear comfortable clothing that is weather-appropriate! We will be in covered spaces for the majority of the time, but some of the breakout sessions may be in direct sunlight.

Other items:
Water bottle
Hat/sunglasses
Sunscreen
Bug spray

Who should I contact with additional questions? ->

Retreat Director:

Austin Francis, LPC
austin@crosskeysequinetherapy.org
cell: (540) 255-0903
CKET main number: (540) 607-6910

Facilitated by licensed and licensed-eligible mental health professionals, this retreat is wellness-focused and psychoeducational in nature and is not a substitute for psychotherapy or crisis services.

Registration limited to 12 participants

Registration deadline October 9, 2026

Register Here Today!

Cancellation Policy

Due to the limited size and experiential nature of this retreat, registration fees are non-refundable within 5 days of the retreat start date. This policy helps cover costs associated with staffing, venue commitments, meals, and retreat preparation.

Cancellation requests submitted:

  • More than 30 days prior to the retreat are eligible for a refund minus a $75 administrative fee.
  • Between 5-29 days prior to the retreat are eligible for a 50% refund of retreat registration fees.
  • Within 5 days of the retreat are non-refundable.

Cancellations can be submitted to:
Austin Francis, LPC, Retreat Director
austin@crosskeysequinetherapy.org
(540) 255-0903 (cell) -or- (540) 607-6910 (CKET main line)

Participants may transfer their registration to another eligible participant with prior approval from retreat organizers.

In the event that the retreat is canceled by organizers, participants will receive a full refund of retreat registration fees.