A Weekend Workshop for Couples

with overnight stay option at San Damiano Retreat Center (click for more info)

14 CE credit for $40 is available to add on. In addition to the retreat registration you must purchase the CE credit separately. Click here prior to the event to get the CE credit registration.

For the past forty years, Drs. John & Julie Gottman, have researched thousands of couples leading to the development of the Art & Science of Love: A Couples Workshop. This workshop is designed for ALL couples in committed relationships for every age, stage (pre-marital, new marriages), ability and sexual orientation.

If you have a strong relationship, this workshop will provide you with insights and tools to foster further closeness, friendship, and trust. If your relationship is distressed, this two-day workshop will provide you with a greater understanding of your relationship and a road map for repair.

During the first day, you will learn how to build fondness, admiration, and closeness in your relationship. On the second day, you’ll work on conflict management while learning new and important communication skills. Couples work privately on exercises designed to address the challenges in real-life relationships. Certified Gottman therapists are available to support couples one-on-one with exercises. While the nature of this workshop is psycho-educational, all info gathered from couples will be kept absolutely confidential.

No public discussion or disclosure is involved. 

Workshop topics include:

• Learn to recognize the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and what to do if they are attacking your marriage
• Identify your relationship’s specific strengths and how to build on them
• Learn about the effects of physiological flooding and how it may affect conflict resolution
• Use the Fondness and Admiration System to renew respect and care for one another
• Create an Emotional Bank Account that you can draw upon in times of stress
• Develop your problem-solving skills, including the 6 skills for effective conflict resolutions
• Find out how you can make your dreams and aspirations come true for you, your partner, and your relationship

As a result of this workshop, you will receive:

In addition to a greater understanding of how to build friendship, manage conflict, and create shared meaning in your relationship, you will receive The Art & Science of Love Box Set. The box set includes: 2 Couples Workbooks and other tools and tips to assist you in applying the exercises at home.

Please Note:

A brief telephone interview of all attendees is required before confirming participation in the workshop. Once payment is received, you will be contacted to set up the interview.

About the Venue

Location

San Damiano Retreat Center Danville

Address: 710 Highland Dr, Danville, CA 94526
Phone: 925-837-9141

www.sandamiano.org

Download flyer here

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I get CE credit?

Yes, 14 CE credit for $40 is available to add on. 
In addition to the retreat registration you must purchase the CE credit separately. Click here prior to the event to get the CE credit registration.

What do the bedrooms and grounds provide?

Our bedrooms each have a private bathroom. We provide the linen although some people bring a favorite pillow. Most of our 78 bedrooms have twin beds. We have a limited number of rooms with double and queen mattresses. A small desk, a lamp, closet and a ceiling fan are in each bedroom. The bedrooms do not have alarm clocks.

Except in emergencies, cell phone use is not permitted in the bedroom area. Our grounds have meditation benches, gardens and fountains. For those who want to walk or hike, we have trails, and a labyrinth. The Stations of the Cross are outdoors in an oak grove that has a path and benches.

NOTE:

Rooms must be vacated by 10 am on Sunday Morning. 

Please strip your beds and remake your bed/beds with the linens in your closet. Place all towels & used bed linens in your pillow cases and place them outside your bedroom door. 

Thank you for your assistance at San Damiano Retreat. 

What kinds of meals are served?

We serve buffet style meals. Included in all meals are fresh fruits and vegetables. A hot entre is served with dinner along with rice or potatoes. We can accommodate vegetarian and vegan request.

What about electronics? Can I use my cell phone/computer?

There is one place on our site that cell phones may be used and that is in front of the main building’s entrance. We strongly request that cell phones are not used at any other time or place during your stay except for an emergency. And please, no cell phone usage in the bedrooms or meditation areas. You may bring a lap top computer that is wifi capable. Wifi is available in the conference rooms, in our lobby, and in bedrooms.  When using computers in bedrooms, please use headphones.

I’m not Catholic. Can I still attend a retreat or come on a private retreat?

Yes, In the spirit of St. Francis, know that you are welcome!

The facility and Gottman workshop is open and friendly to all races, religions, gender and LGBTQ++.

Cancellation Policy:

Refunds less $75.00 administration fee are given for cancellations received by email to Leslie Baker at leslie@lesliebakermft.com, no less than 21 days prior to the event. Refunds are not possible less than 21 days before the event, regardless of personal circumstances. Cancellation policy is final and not negotiable. Therapy2Thrive®Ruby Hill Counseling Center, Inc. regrets the difficult personal circumstances that prevent people attending including medical concerns and emergencies, severe weather or transport difficulty, however the logistics of event management prevents T2T® RHCC from assuming responsibility for such difficulties.