BY KAREN BOSSICK

A four-day therapeutic intensive retreat for female survivors of sexual abuse will take place Oct. 16-19 in the Wood River Valley. An opening ceremony will kick off the retreat on the evening of Oct. 15.

Steadfast Sun Valley offers a healing experience, combining evidence-based neuroscience and somatic-based trauma modalities with the restorative power of nature, creativity and community. The retreat uses equine-assisted psychotherapy, art therapy, psychoeducation, individual therapy sessions and gentle yoga/movement set against the natural Idaho landscape.

“The connection, growth, and healing that unfold when women come together in community is powerful. It’s a privilege to hold space for that transformation,” said Laurie Strand, LCSW, the director of Sun Valley Steadfast.

The retreat, led by trained and experienced clinicians, uses the Community Resiliency Model, a set of wellness skills that help participants track sensations of well-being and return to balance when stressed. It also uses the Trauma Resilience Model, which helps people reprocess trauma.

Therapists also use modalities such as EMDR.

Sun Valley Steadfast was founded in 2022 by Melissa Boley, a local trauma specialist. Her successor, Laurie Strand, is founder of Resiliency Rising, a trauma- and resilience-informed group practice and consulting organization based in the Wood River Valley.

The retreat will include lunch, snacks and individual and group therapy sessions. Cost is $2,000 with scholarships available.

The organization is supported by The Advocates and St. Luke’s Center for Community Health. Donations have come from the Nancy Eccles and Homer M. Hayward Family Foundation, Rainbow Sandals and the Arizona Community Foundation.

To learn more, email info@resiliency-rising.com, call 208-481-4639 or visit www.resiliency-rising.com/steadfast.