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October 7-10 | $1,200Led by therapists
Trapper Lukaart
& Andrea DearbornStory Work in the Wild:
Teanaway River Basin, Wash.
What to ExpectAn immersive Story Work retreat, inviting you to unplug and deeply encounter your story, other sojourners, and the wild. We’ll set up camp in a quiet river valley and explore the rugged beauty around us. In a supportive group setting, we’ll explore specific themes of your life and ways of relating through the lens of childhood narrative.
Alongside this deep personal work, there will be time to slow down, explore rivers, alpine lakes, and mountain trails, and connect with others over evening campfires and morning coffee.
“To enter into any wood is to enter into a realm in which transformation seems inevitable. ”
Each participant is invited to bring a written story about an experience in your childhood that has shaped you, or perhaps even tamed you. Through sharing this story within a small group, you can discover more fully where you come from, who you are, and find greater freedom moving forward as your wild, beautiful self.
❋ Group StoryworkLed by experienced therapists Trapper Lukaart and Andrea Dearborn, who share a deep desire to help you access and grow into a truer, less-tamed version of yourself. They’ll hold space, encourage participation, and keep things moving—whether on the trail or in the group.
❋ Expert FacilitationThe retreat will include a fairly strenuous hike to see Washington’s iconic golden larches around Mt. Stuart, with opportunities for reflection, learning, and discovery throughout the journey.
❋ Day-Hike ExcursionWithin the wildness and beauty of forests, rivers, and peaks, we encounter ourselves in a new light. Let the magnificence of the wild support or challenge you as you let go (for a moment) of familiar roles, routines, and titles.
❋ The Wild as CatalystWe’ll unplug from technology (no cell service) and the daily luxuries we take for granted (running water and plumbing) to simplify and focus on the essence of you, the wild around you, and what truly matters.
❋ Off-grid CampingShared tents for 3–4 people will be available, or you’re welcome to bring your own. All meals will be provided throughout the retreat. Transportation from Seattle (approximately a two-hour drive) is not included, though we’re happy to help coordinate carpools among participants.
❋ Supplies and Getting there
Trapper Lukaart and Andrea (Peer) Dearborn both graduated two decades ago from The Seattle School and have taught, trained, and facilitated for many years with The Allender Center. They both live in the Pacific Northwest with their families and enjoy exploring the wild world around us.
What is Story Work? Story Work is a process of writing, reading, and engaging significant stories from our past within a small group setting. Unaddressed harm can have an outsized impact on our sense of self and the ways we relate to ourselves and others. By encountering our stories with kindness—and receiving the kindness of others—a truer story can emerge, along with a fuller, more authentic sense of self.
Day One - WednesdayArrive & Meet
As everyone arrives, we take time to set up camp, get comfortable, and begin connecting with those around us. The journey starts here.
Please note, this is a rough schedule and is subject to change.
Check-In6:00pm - 7:00pm
Group Welcome & Introduction to Storywork7:00pm
Day Two - ThursdaySmall Groups & Solo Time
We’ll cook & eat together, have time to explore a gentle trail and the riverside, and take our first dive into stories. Each participant will read their story to their small group and have time for reflection. Healing will continue in some solo time among the trees.
Breakfast & walk7:30am
Small Group9:00am
Lunch Break11:30am
Small Group12:30pm
Solo Time2:30pm
Small Group3:30pm
6:00pm
Dinner & CampfireWhy Outside?
The wilderness—the wild, untamed natural world—is evocative. There is the lush mystery of a deep mountain valley, the awe of a towering granite peak, and the quiet serenity of a deep blue alpine lake. Yet the tasks, transitions, and technology that shape our day-to-day lives have normalized a state of moderate overwhelm and exhausted nervous systems. Even brief forays into the natural world can have the opposite biological effect: cortisol levels decrease, the parasympathetic nervous system—the body’s “rest and digest” state—activates, and heart rate variability improves, to name just a few.
Mountain Hike to Alpine Lake & Golden Larches
Day Three - FridayGrowth and healing get a boost from grand vistas and a little sweat. Participants must have strong physical stamina and be able to hike for six hours, including significant elevation gain, while carrying their own day supplies. Well-earned dopamine is far more generative than dopamine purchased.
Breakfast7:30am
Hike to Alpine Lake8:30am
Lunch at lake11:30am
Hike back2:30pm
Dinner5:00pm
Small Group6:00pm
Day Four - SaturdaySmall Groups & Ending
Each participant will have a chance to read their story twice with their small group and receive input, care, and guidance from facilitators and fellow group members. As the time together comes to a close, we’ll send each other on our unique paths with new connections.
Breakfast & walk7:30am
Small Group9:00am
Lunch Break11:30am
Small Group12:30pm
Large Group Ending2:30pm
Pack-up3:30pm
Register & Learn More
We’d love to hear from you! There are only 10 spots available, so please reach out soon. Once you contact us, we’ll set up time for a brief phone call to make sure this event is a good fit.