Therapeutic Retreats
Dedicated time and space for connection, restoration, growth, and healing.
Couples Retreats
Operation Healing Forces’ Therapeutic Couples Retreat Program provides relationship-centered, resiliency-building experiences for Special Operations Forces (SOF) couples navigating the unique challenges of military service, combat deployments, operational stress, injury, transition, and long-term caregiving responsibilities. These retreats are intentionally designed to strengthen family stability, improve communication, reduce isolation, and help couples reconnect in a safe and supportive environment. Through shared experiences, peer connection, guided discussions, wellness activities, and time intentionally dedicated to one another, couples are equipped with practical tools that support healthier relationships, emotional well-being, and long-term family resilience. By investing in the strength of the family unit, OHF’s retreats help reduce the risk factors that can contribute to behavioral health struggles, family instability, caregiver burnout, and disconnection within military families.
About our Retreats
- Week-long therapeutic retreats designed specifically for the Special Operations community
- Hosted at generously donated homes and resort properties throughout the United States and abroad
- Limited to 4–5 couples per retreat to foster meaningful connection and individualized support
- Confidential, mentally and physically safe environment built on trust and shared experiences
- Led by retired SOF veterans and spouses who understand the realities of military and post-service life
- Focused on strengthening communication, trust, resiliency, and healthy reintegration into family life
- Opportunities for peer connection with other SOF couples facing similar challenges
- Incorporates wellness activities, relationship-building experiences, and guided discussions
- All travel, lodging, meals, and retreat activities provided at no cost to participating families through the generosity of donors and community partners
Caregiver Retreats
In addition to “Creating Bonds that Cure” between SOF couples, OHF understands that those who stand beside our service members also need opportunities to connect and lift each other up.
These individuals have courageously shouldered many burdens, often raising families alone while pursuing their own careers and personal aspirations.
At Operation Healing Forces, our Caregiver Retreats provide much-needed respite for the unsung heroes behind our Special Operations Forces—spouses, life partners, and caregivers. These retreats offer a safe and confidential space for deep renewal and connection.
By bonding with fellow caregivers who understand the unique challenges and joys of their role, attendees can build lasting friendships and find solace in shared experiences. Through a variety of activities, including yoga, meditation, and nature therapy, caregivers can recharge and return to their daily lives with renewed energy and a strengthened support network.
WHY IT MATTERS
The demands of Special Operations service can place extraordinary strain on marriages, parenting, family dynamics, and emotional well-being. Frequent deployments, operational tempo, combat-related injuries, transition from military service, and the invisible wounds of war often impact the entire family unit. OHF’s Therapeutic Couples Retreats provide an opportunity for couples to pause, reconnect, and build the tools needed to navigate these challenges together- strengthening protective factors that support healthier families, stronger relationships, and long-term resilience.
Our Guiding Principles
Reintegration
OHF helps the SOF wounded couple to reintegrate with each other.
In addition, many veterans and their partners have often discovered an ability to heal from within and reconnect with what’s good in life as they share experiences, information, and interact with other SOF operators and their spouses who have undergone similar difficult circumstances.
Rehabilitation
Many SOF wounded return from the battlefield not only with physical wounds but also with unseen wounds. When a warrior is wounded, it’s not just the service member but also the family who is injured. Too often the family gets caught in a cycle of repeated deployments, hospitals, physical therapy, rehabilitation and unit mission demands to the detriment of the family.
Resiliency
OHF presents a program that saves marriages and boosts resiliency and well being.
The program creates strong, positive memories for the couple to heal wounds, repair relationships, build resiliency, save couples from past trauma, and also strengthen bonds for future continued service in America’s military or as veterans in civilian society.
Global Retreat Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Retreats
How can I apply for a retreat?
Applications can be submitted through the forms found on our website. Each application is reviewed carefully, and participants are selected based on eligibility and need. Please include all required documents to speed the verification process. View the Couples Retreat application form HERE. View the Caregiver Retreat application form HERE.
What costs are covered?
OHF covers most expenses related to retreat participation, including travel, lodging, meals, and program activities. Participants are typically only responsible for personal items or incidental costs.
WHO CAN ATTEND RETREATS?
OHF's therapeutic couples retreat is open to active-duty or retired SOF service members and their spouse or life-partner. OHF's therapeutic couples retreat is open to the spouse, life-partner, or caregiver of the active-duty or retired SOF service member. At this time, our retreats are designed for adults and do not include accommodations for children.
Are retreats confidential?
Yes. Confidentiality is central to OHF’s programs. Participants are encouraged to share openly without fear of judgment, and no information is shared outside the retreat environment without consent. Photos are typically shared with homeowners and may be used in marketing materials with permission.
How often can I attend a retreat?
While retreat participants attend once, ongoing support is offered through our alumni network, virtual programs, and resources. Special circumstances may allow for additional participation.
What should I expect during a retreat?
Retreats combine organic participant lead discussions, wellness activities, and opportunities to connect with their own spouses as well as others who share similar experiences. The goal is to provide space for healing, reconnection, and resilience.
