This unique approach is further solidified by Israel Helfand’s years of experience as a sex therapist. The Helfands try to ensure that each partner feels heard and not blamed for any type of marriage discord, they also focus on healing and growth instead of marriage failures. At each retreat, they address a range of issues from crisis intervention ( i.e., consideration by either member of the couple of ending the marriage), to marital bond enhancement, promoting increased emotional and/or sexual intimacy.
Their marriage retreats are located on the premises of their charming Vermont farmstead. Before offering these retreats, this couple maintained a family therapy practice which they began in 1983, where they provided couples therapy together – one couple at a time. Israel Helfand and his wife, Cathie Helfand. Marriage Quest has been offering private marriage retreats in Vermont for over 25 years and is run by Dr. David Helfand offers 1, 2, or 3-Day virtual couples retreats. For couples who would like a virtual option, Dr. Israel and Cathie are only working with couples who have been vaccinated. In a recent research article in Psychotherapy it is noted that significant improvement in relationship satisfaction can result from couples therapy, evidencing that retreats may be beneficial for couples in any stage of marriage, whether they are on the brink of divorce or preparing for marriage. Marriage retreats enable couples time away from everyday routines to help rejuvenate their relationship as a married couple.