The "Change Your Mind, Change Your Life" retreat is based on the work of Albert Ellis, a cognitive therapist who formulated Rational Emotive Problem Solving, a unique and powerful way to achieve increased contentment and peace of mind. Rational emotive therapy applies the notion that our negative emotions and behaviors are a result of our lives' events being filtered through a system of beliefs that are distorted and not useful or helpful. The cognitive approach to psychotherapy helps us understand that our beliefs and thoughts require evaluation.

This idea is not a new one... Shakespeare mused, "There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so." And before him, Epictetus noted that "man is not disturbed by events, but by the view he takes of them." This retreat is for anyone who has ever wondered, "Is it me or is it them?" when struggling with an interpersonal crisis. If you've ever secretly wondered about your thinking, wondered if you're doing it "right," you're already benefiting from an intuitive awareness of the skill of "thinking well." The ability to think well and rationally is fundamental to a firm grasp of reality. Cognitive skills inoculate against many of the common stresses of life and guide us toward improved relationships with friends, family, lovers, and coworkers. With positive relationships come improved self-esteem and confidence. The ability to be "on to "yourself " is a powerful tool for the management of your inner life.

The retreat will provide participants with the opportunity to become aware of the common beliefs and distortions that have an impact on their lives. Several self-evaluation tools will assist in pinpointing specific areas of concern and insight into how the belief is causing difficulty. The tools will provide ways to replace those self-defeating systems of belief with ones that support and affirm the idea that you have the right to search for personal happiness, seek your desires and goals, and become a successful woman - any way you define success.

Throughout the weekend there will be approximately seven hours of instruction as well as opportunities for anyone desiring individual time. The retreats are intimate; there will be no more than four women. The retreat fee includes all materials and your room with meals, with the exception of Saturday evening, when you are encouraged to explore the Ithaca Commons, a unique place to shop and dine.