What does “safety” mean to you?
“What do you mean when you say you provide safety to your clients?”
When she asked me this question, I realized that the language I use so often as a therapist doesn’t always carry the same meaning to someone in a different field. Here’s what I shared with her and what I really meant.
We begin with creating safe office spaces. I use soft lighting, aromatherapy candles, sound machines for privacy, and comfy furniture to create a physical safe space. My clients come into my office and feel at ease in the atmosphere that I have cultivated. Once they are feeling physically safe, this opens them up to emotional safety. They know that everything that they share with me will be held in the utmost confidentiality, respected, validated, and that they will not be judged. Unconditional positive regard is so important for us to provide to our clients. We see you within the context of your story and our empathy and understanding creates emotional safety.
These principles are replicated in our therapy retreats. The houses that we select are beautiful comfortable spaces, and we ensure that all of your physical needs are met - with cozy blankets, delicious meals, and opportunities to move your body in ways that are enjoyable and refreshing. Participants are able to settle into these spaces and begin to exhale from the heavy loads that they have been carrying. As they begin to unwind and share, many of them are surprised at how comfortable and safe they feel opening up. Again, we emphasize confidentiality, acceptance, and understanding within the group, creating emotional safety. This sharing of common experience with like-minded women translates into a relational safety.
The retreat leaders, Lauren and Alana (me!) have been best friends for eight years and have chosen a depth of relationship that participants have said inspired them to believe that deep connection is possible. They begin to take risks in trusting the women around them and many have walked away with lifelong friendships and community. These women continue to get together for coffee dates, lunches, and phone calls, remembering that they are not alone and that they share a bond born out of common experience.
The fourth kind of safety that we value highly is spiritual safety. It does not matter where you are on your walk with God, you will be accepted into our circles, our offices and retreats, warmly, and without judgment. We sit with people every day who are wrestling with who God is, why He allows bad things to happen, or how those who claim to follow him are the ones who have hurt them the most. Others come in feeling very close to God, yet still unable to hear his voice or find the space in their lives to cultivate stillness with Him. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, you will find safe space to explore and grow.
Do you need space to rest, breathe, and heal? Perhaps you are ready to start counseling or join us on a therapeutic retreat! Contact us to start your journey today!
Rooted Women’s Wellness Retreat
Charleston, SC
October 2-5, 2025
Space is limited – claim your spot today!
