Description
This weekend is an immersive experience designed to expand awareness, deepen personal insight, and open new ways of relating to yourself and others. This isn’t a lecture series—it’s a lived experience that invites you to embrace the full spectrum of being: light and shadow, chaos and clarity.
The Foundation of an MFT Weekend:
- Connection: Deepen your relationship with yourself, other men, and the rugged beauty of the Blue Ridge.
- Personal Growth: Identify the patterns holding you back and move toward greater authenticity and resilience.
- Fun: Rediscover playfulness, adventure, and the joy of being “unplugged” in the mountains.
The Experience: What to Expect
- Interactive Practice: Move through engaging processes that challenge assumptions and spark self-reflection.
- Fireside Clarity: Forge bonds through shared meals, fireside conversations, and quiet moments under the stars.
- Embodied Learning: Leave with a felt sense of empowerment and tools you can apply immediately to your everyday life.
What’s Included Checklist:
- Lodging at the historic Phoebe Needles Center
- All Meals and Refreshments (Friday Dinner – Sunday Lunch)
- All Training Materials & Facilitation
- Pre and Post-Weekend Integration Calls
Registration Agreements:
This weekend is not a therapy retreat, but a space to challenge your identity and step into something new. It’s deep, sometimes uncomfortable work that requires emotional stability. If you have unresolved trauma, this may not be the right environment for you.
By registering, you agree to:
- Complete a brief interview (if this is your first MenLiving weekend).
- Take full responsibility for your physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
- Stay open to all feedback and participate fully from start to finish.
- Disconnect: This is a dry and unplugged event (no alcohol, drugs, or devices).
The Logistics:
- Date: 10/23 – 10/25
- Time: Begins @ 6:00 PM Friday; Ends @ 1:30 PM Sunday.
- Location: Phoebe Needles Center, Callaway, VA.
- Closest Airport: Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional (ROA) – approx. 45-minute drive.
Contact: Have questions? Contact Todd Adams.
Payment policy
If you cancel you’ll receive 50% credit (minus deposit) for a future ML Weekends.
Deposits are non-refundable.
Balance to be paid in full by 10/8/26
If special payments arrangements are requested, please contact todd@menliving.org
FAQ
Is this a religious retreat?
While Phoebe Needles is an Episcopal center, MenLiving is a secular organization. We utilize their beautiful, quiet space in the Blue Ridge Mountains for personal growth and connection, not religious instruction.
I’ve never done a “men’s group” before. Is this for me?
Absolutely. The MFT is our entry point. There are no “experts” here—just men looking for more authenticity and resilience. You don’t need to “know” anything before you show up.
What does “Dry and Unplugged” actually mean?
To stay fully present, we agree to no alcohol or recreational drugs. We also ask that phones be turned off and put away to eliminate outside distractions. (We provide an emergency contact number for your family).
Is this therapy?
No. While the weekend is deeply personal and often healing, it is not clinical therapy. It is a peer-led experiential training focused on awareness, resilience, and presence.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Phoebe Needles has a full-service kitchen (McCauley Hall). We can accommodate most needs (Vegetarian, GF, etc.)
What is the “Interview” mentioned in the agreements?
If this is your first MenLiving weekend, a leader will have a brief 15-minute 1-on-1 call with you. This ensures the weekend is a good fit for where you are currently in your journey.
What should I pack for October in the Blue Ridge?
Think “mountain rugged.” Bring heavy layers, sturdy boots for hiking, and a flashlight. While beds are provided, many men bring their own sleeping bag/pillow for extra comfort.
