at Nightingales (between forest and sea)

Our aim is to provide a safe haven where you can find peace
- for mind, body and spirit

The Retreat attracts people from all walks of life. Interestingly, we've recently had two Psychologists here who chose our intuitive integrated therapy approach over retreats offering Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT).

There are answers other than medication to relieve you of residual stress and anxiety. Here at the Schema Therapy Retreat you'll get rest, good nutrition, gentle exercise and Schema Therapy, a pro-active form of CBT. We'll use positive psychology techniques together with other therapies. Our integrated approach flows naturally from intuitive psychology assessment.

Residential Schema Therapy at Nightingales means there is no hassle of getting to and from Schema Therapy sessions. You'll have time for contemplation and self-renewal, whilst being cocooned in a therapeutic environment.

You'll be resident here at our tranquil seaside retreat. There are no groups. Our therapies focus entirely on you.

We also practice mindfulness based stress reduction as part of our positive psychology / integrated therapy.

Nightingales is in a lovely location, with woodland just across the road, the New Forest 3 miles inland and the sea only 300 yards away.

Loving kindness goes a long way to energising a weary soul and calming a troubled mind. Self-compassion is at the heart of emotional healing. Using integrated psychology and mindfulness techniques, we seek to align Retreaters with authentic happiness.

In a homely and peaceful environment we arm you with powerful and practical tools to free trapped emotions. Laughter really is the best medicine. We always know when Retreaters are on the mend - as their laughing increases, as do musical outbursts. Singing is not compulsory, but it tends to come naturally with improved mood.

Testimonial - SB (Scotland)

Just wanted to again say thank you so much for your words of wisdom and time. I also would like to say I think you are a truly inspirational woman. The unconditional kindness and acceptance you offer others is so very admirable and awe inspiring. I have had a few therapists, but you have something within your persona that makes addressing issues so much easier.

I think the most impacting "Tina's words of wisdom" statement you made was "Be the change you want to see in the world" - and this is my new mantra.

I still have a sense of peace within me and continue to see the world in a much happier light. I think the work you undertook in regards to my loss has really shifted something.

I have applied for a new job. Choir starts on Monday. Pottery starts in two weeks. I am no longer locking myself in my bedroom in the evenings. I am being quite proactive with unfinished DIY this week! I am getting there, but I do feel markedly happier, calmer & positive!

All my eternal gratitude and love.

We'll help you get your life back in balance

The main aim of our Retreat is to get your life back in balance. From time to time, even the most stable of us 'flip' to the dark side!

When we are low, we tend to see the negative side of everything. Sometimes we are holding back our own recovery by not being compassionate to ourselves.

Schema Therapy has been shown to be most effective in cases of treatment resistant depression and anxiety disorders.

Most of our guests are not clinically depressed. Some are, but do not realise it!

It may be a cliché, but everybody hurts - sometime! Sadly, it is part of the human condition. We lose loved ones, we lose jobs. People leave us or they fail to understand.

Changing patterns that we know need changing is tough. Even habits we know are killing us are hard to shift.

At testing times, Nightingales can offer a nurturing environment where you can access Schema Therapy.

You have the power to eliminate most of the struggles in your life. Whether it's a relationship issue, an addiction, anxiety, or problems with work - the solutions may only be a few thoughts away.

Our seaside Retreat will show you how you can increase your chances of living a happier life.

This is a bespoke residential Retreat built around your individual needs. However, we are now offering a single room (with private bathroom) in the guest wing, for an accompanying friend, relative or PA of the sole Retreater.

Changing what we can

The Retreat experience is different for everyone. My broad experience and natural intuition help to clarify what each guest needs. Accepting and taking responsibility for things we can change is key.

I first trained as a Therapist at St Bartholomew's Dept of Psychiatric Medicine in London. My Master's from the Psychology Dept, Univ of Wales, focussed on 'Positivity'.

The Schema Therapy model suits my modus operandi perfectly. From my first training it felt 'right'. My original training was at the Oxford Behavioural Centre. However, if Dialectical Behaviour Therapy skills will be of benefit, we'll bring those into the mix.

We are always mindful of the guest in residence 'here and now' and their needs.

In addition to my Certificate in Schema Therapy, I've undergone 48 hours (in hour long sessions) of Schema Focussed Therapy Supervision with two very experienced Schema Therapists.

My current supervisor does not work with the Schema Model. He specialises in an allied area - Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). However, we often discuss methodologies and he has been impressed with how Schema Therapy can 'work wonders' on treatment resistant patients.

Personally, I find Schema Therapy more pro-active than CBT. Both my supervisor and I have an interest in Mindfulness (in therapy). I attend (therapy) workshops to keep my practice current.

Our approach at Nightingales is far from formulaic. By having a Consultant Psychiatrist as a Supervisor, I keep abreast of developments in the world of Psychiatric medicine. Where possible, I apply natural alternatives or talking therapy solutions.

However, I do not neglect the fact that some people may be physically unwell. Whilst primarily a Retreat, we try to address wellness of body as well as mind and spirit.