FAQs

General Retreat Information:

What are the dates and location of the retreat?

  • We are holding the Venus Rising retreat twice in summer 2025: July 10-13 and August 7-10, 2025

  • The retreats are located in Warren, New Hampshire.

What is the daily schedule like? 

  • 7:30-8:30am: Breakfast 

  • 9:00am-12:00pm: Group Session

  • 12:30-1:30pm: Lunch

  • 1:30pm-3pm: Solo time (read, wander the property, nap, hot tub, arts and crafts, work on journal prompts, etc.)

  • 3pm-5pm: Group Session

  • 6pm-7pm: Dinner

  • 7:30pm-9:30pm: Group Activity (dance, fire ceremony, star gazing)

What should I bring?

  • Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (think spa or lounge attire).

  • Sunscreen and personal care items.

  • A journal for reflection.

  • Any personal medications or essential items.

Is the retreat accessible for people with disabilities?

  • We strive to create a welcoming environment for everyone. Our historic 1830s house, while charming, has stairs throughout. If you have mobility concerns or specific accessibility needs, please contact us directly. We'll happily discuss how we can best accommodate you.

What is the cancellation policy?

  • A $500 non-refundable deposit secures your spot. If you cancel at least 30 days before your retreat, you'll receive a full refund minus the deposit.

How do I register?

Why is this a “dry” retreat?

  • To fully support the deep emotional and transformational work we'll be doing, we require a sober environment. Alcohol and recreational substances can interfere with processing and judgment, which we want to avoid. This is a space for learning, connection, and healing, not a party.

What are the payment options?

  • A $500 deposit secures your spot. The remaining balance is due 30 days before your retreat. Payments can be made through our website's payment platform, Venmo or by mailing a check or money order.

Regarding the Retreat Content:

What topics will be covered during the retreat?

  • We'll explore female sexuality, pleasure, intimacy, communication, and self-discovery. Expect evidence-based techniques, embodied activities, and a focus on reclaiming your sensual power.

What are the qualifications of Dr. Ashley Sweet and Dr. Danielle Armour?

  • They are both Ph.D. level Clinical Sexologists, Licensed psychotherapists, and AASECT certified sex therapists with over 17 years of professional experience.

Is this retreat suitable for women of all sexual orientations and relationship statuses?

  • Yes, though the content is primarily geared towards cis-women. We will consider all applicants, but please be aware that the socialization of women assigned female at birth is a primary focus of the work. We accept all relationship styles and statuses.

Is this retreat appropriate for survivors of sexual trauma?

  • Survivors are welcome, but the retreat doesn't focus on processing specific trauma. If you're actively processing trauma, this retreat is probably not the best fit.

What kind of embodied activities will be included?

  • Gentle movement, breathing exercises, stretching, and dance. All activities are optional and non-sexual.

Will there be opportunities for individual work or personal sharing?

  • Yes, you'll have opportunities for both individual reflection and group sharing, but individual therapy is not provided.

Is this a religious or spiritual retreat?

  • No, but we may explore how societal messages, including religious and/or spiritual beliefs, impact our understanding of sexuality.

What is the difference between embodied sexuality and sexual activity?

  • Embodied sexuality is an internal experience of being present in your body and feeling your desire. Sexual activity is an external expression and is not permitted at this retreat.

What is the policy on photography and videography during the retreat?

  • Limited photography with consent; no videography unless explicitly granted by facilitators.

Regarding the Therapeutic Aspect:

Is this retreat therapy?

  • No, it's an educational and experiential intensive. Please see our disclaimer for details.

What if I experience intense emotions during the retreat?

  • We'll provide grounding techniques and journaling prompts to help you process emotions.

Will I receive individual therapy during the retreat?

  • No.

What resources are available if I need further support after the retreat?

  • We'll provide a list of sex-positive resources and therapists.

Regarding Accommodations and Meals:

Are meals provided, and can you accommodate dietary restrictions?

  • Yes, and we'll gather dietary information beforehand.

What are the bedroom configurations?

  • Private and shared rooms are available. Bed sizes vary based on availability.

Is there Wi-Fi available?

  • Yes, with limited access in common areas.

Are there laundry facilities available?

  • Yes, on site.

Is there parking available?

  • Yes.

What is the surrounding area like?

  • A small town in the beautiful White Mountains.

How do I get to the retreat space, if I’m not in driving distance?

  • If you're flying to the retreat, the top three nearest airports to our retreat location are:

    • Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB) – 30 miles away, approximately a 45-minute drive.

    • Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) – 90 miles away, about a 1.25-hour drive.

    • Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) – 130 miles away, roughly a 2-hour drive.

Regarding Shared Rooms:

How does the shared room discount work?

  • 10% discount for sharing with a friend or a matched participant.

Do I have to come with a friend to share a room?

  • Ideally, yes.

What are the shared room configurations?

  • Two single beds, a bed and pull-out couch, or a shared king bed (first-come, first-served).

Regarding Safety and Boundaries:

What are the retreat's policies regarding consent and boundaries?

  • Consent is paramount. You're never required to participate in anything you don't want to. We hold great respect for one another’s boundaries. 

Is this a safe space for LGBTQ+ women?

  • Yes, but the focus is primarily on cis-women's experiences.

What is the policy regarding sex, touch, and nudity?

  • None permitted.

Can someone be dismissed from the retreat early?

  • Yes, for disruptive or inappropriate behavior, without refund.