Upcoming events.
Write to Heal - Chester, CT Retreat
Write to Heal: A Weekend of Reflection and Community
April 17 – April 19, 2026 | Chester, CT
Join Blue Healing Journeys for an intimate writing retreat designed specifically for survivors of suicide loss. Set against the serene backdrop of The Guest House—nestled on 11 acres of peaceful woodlands—this weekend offers a rare opportunity to step away from the noise of daily life and find your voice through the power of narrative.
The Experience
Loss often disrupts our internal story. Through guided workshops, quiet contemplation, and shared meals, we will explore how writing can act as a bridge toward reclaiming that narrative. This is not a technical writing course; it is a safe, supportive space to process lived experience alongside others who truly understand the journey.
Special Guest Instructor: Robert J. Rosenthal
We are honored to be joined by Robert J. Rosenthal, a Pulitzer Prize finalist and former Executive Editor of the Philadelphia Inquirer. Robert brings a unique perspective to the retreat, blending his mastery of storytelling with his own personal journey as a fellow survivor of suicide loss. He will lead sessions focused on finding truth and authenticity in the aftermath of tragedy.
Retreat Details
Venue: The Guest House, 318 West Main Street, Chester, CT.
Support: Facilitated by AFSP-trained leaders to ensure a sensitive and healing environment.
Intimacy: To ensure a meaningful experience for every participant, attendance is strictly limited to 14 people.
Whether you have been writing for years or haven’t picked up a pen in decades, your story belongs here.
For more information email: martha@bluehealingjourneys.org
Paint to Heal - Individual Session
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Session
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Session
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Session
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Session
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Session 2 (5 Workshops)
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Session
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Sessions
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Sessions
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Sessions
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Individual Sessions
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Paint to Heal - Session 1 (5 Workshops)
Blue Healing Journeys: Paint to Heal Program (2025-2026)
Find connection, express emotion, and build community through the transformative power of art.
Find Comfort and Community on the Water and Beyond - August 22nd Sailing Outing and Dinner - Open to those who have lost loved ones to suicide.
We invite you to join us for a peaceful Sailing and Dinner Outing on Friday, August 22nd, in Oakdale, NY. Experience the tranquility of the Great South Bay aboard the historic Oyster Sloop, The Priscilla, from 4 pm to 6 pm. Afterward, we'll share a meal together at the Snapper Inn (500 Shore Dr, Oakdale, NY 11769) from 6:30 pm to 7:45 pm. This gathering is for individuals who have experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide, offering a chance to connect with others and find moments of shared understanding. Free parking for the sail is available at the Snapper Inn. The cost to participate is $70 per person. We hope you will join us.
Participant Capacity: 13 (At capacity)
Registration Link: August 22nd Sail & Dinner
Blue Healing Journeys - Write to Heal Retrat
Write to Heal - Weekend Retreat (This retreat is at Capacity - we will have a similar retreat in late summer)
Deeply restorative 2.5-day retreat designed for those who have experienced the profound loss of a loved one to suicide. This intimate gathering will offer a safe and nurturing space for healing through the power of creative writing, mindfulness practices, and the supportive embrace of fellow travelers on a similar path.
Experience:
Soulful Writing Workshops: Led by a compassionate college professor, these sessions will guide you through a variety of creative writing exercises, offering a unique avenue for self-expression, processing emotions, and finding solace in the written word.
Mindful Movement: Begin your day with a gentle yoga session to cultivate inner peace and physical well-being.
Culinary Delights: Immerse yourself in a hands-on cooking class with the talented Cristina Manjon, where you'll learn to prepare a delicious paella and other specialties while fostering a sense of community.
Nature's Embrace: Enjoy serene nature walks amidst the picturesque landscapes of Saratoga Springs, offering moments of quiet reflection and a renewed connection to the natural world.
This retreat is a heartfelt invitation to nurture your healing journey, connect with others who understand, and discover new ways to express your grief and find hope.
April 5 - Paint to Heal
Free workshop. Participants will have a support group workshop followed by a group art project. Space is limited. If you are interested please email:
john@bluehealingjourneys.org
Paint to Heal - Session 6
Workshop includes expressive art session led by experienced art therapist, support group, art materials/supplies and breakfast.
Description of a session below (subject to modifications).
Session - After initial meet and share, the art session will start with a brief warm up activity followed by painting on canvas. Based on participants’ preferences, a prompt can be given. This can be either free painting or may be focused on a theme of such as memories of loved ones and ways their person influenced our identity and life. Participants will be encouraged to continue making art on a personal art journal after this session. Session will resume with sharing and closing.
Paint to Heal - Session 5
Workshop includes expressive art session led by experienced art therapist, support group, art materials/supplies and breakfast.
Description of a session below (subject to modifications).
Session - After initial meet and share, the art session will start with a brief warm up activity followed by painting on canvas. Based on participants’ preferences, a prompt can be given. This can be either free painting or may be focused on a theme of such as memories of loved ones and ways their person influenced our identity and life. Participants will be encouraged to continue making art on a personal art journal after this session. Session will resume with sharing and closing.
Paint to Heal - Session 4
Workshop includes expressive art session led by experienced art therapist, support group, art materials/supplies and breakfast.
Description of a session below (subject to modifications).
Session - After initial meet and share, the art session will start with a brief warm up activity followed by painting on canvas. Based on participants’ preferences, a prompt can be given. This can be either free painting or may be focused on a theme of such as memories of loved ones and ways their person influenced our identity and life. Participants will be encouraged to continue making art on a personal art journal after this session. Session will resume with sharing and closing.
Paint to Heal - Session 3
Workshop includes expressive art session led by experienced art therapist, support group, art materials/supplies and breakfast.
Description of a session below (subject to modifications).
Session - After initial meet and share, the art session will start with a brief warm up activity followed by painting on canvas. Based on participants’ preferences, a prompt can be given. This can be either free painting or may be focused on a theme of such as memories of loved ones and ways their person influenced our identity and life. Participants will be encouraged to continue making art on a personal art journal after this session. Session will resume with sharing and closing.
Paint to Heal - Session 2
Workshop includes expressive art session led by experienced art therapist, support group, art materials/supplies and breakfast.
Description of a session below (subject to modifications).
Session - After initial meet and share, the art session will start with a brief warm up activity followed by painting on canvas. Based on participants’ preferences, a prompt can be given. This can be either free painting or may be focused on a theme of such as memories of loved ones and ways their person influenced our identity and life. Participants will be encouraged to continue making art on a personal art journal after this session. Session will resume with sharing and closing.
Paint to Heal - Session 1
Registration Link Individual Session
Workshop includes expressive art session led by experienced art therapist, support group, art materials/supplies and breakfast.
Description of a session below (subject to modifications).
Session - After initial meet and share, the art session will start with a brief warm up activity followed by painting on canvas. Based on participants’ preferences, a prompt can be given. This can be either free painting or may be focused on a theme of such as memories of loved ones and ways their person influenced our identity and life. Participants will be encouraged to continue making art on a personal art journal after this session. Session will resume with sharing and closing.
