First Responders Retreat – The Cortina Method (TCM) 2025

First Responders Retreat – The Cortina Method (TCM) 2025

How Did the Retreat Go?

Massage helped to ease tension.

Reiki calmed my mind.

Reflexology helped with some issues I did not know I had before.

TCM, can not say enough about what this has done for me. Amazing.

Would like to learn more about Alternative therapies such as Yoga, Massage, Reflexology and Reiki.

TCM, so far, so good.

The most beneficial activity was building relationships, growing close to my spouse, and learning new tools to use in life.

Time off from life every day.

Learned another tool to help deal with anxiety issues.

Had a fun time. TCM is interesting and potentially useful and helpful.

The Reflexology was outstanding! The daily Yoga was a plus.

The most beneficial activity for me was Yoga.

The daily shared experience as a group served to build community of support and self-collective intent.

TCM, the result was amazing, and I am sure it will be life changing.

I learned new Alternative Therapy such as breathing and Yoga.

All was great, the TCM visits were amazing.

I learned new Alternative Therapy such as Yoga and reflexology.

This TCM program was helpful and enlightening. It allowed me to think beyond the norm and work through some issues in a non-standard format.

The most beneficial activity was the TCM visits, opened my eyes to new ways to deal and cope with problems.

I learned new Alternative Therapy methods such as breathing and TCM techniques.

Excellent experience learned a lot about me and healing and communication.

The most beneficial activity was holistic. Needed the time-out and to relax from Stressors of life. TCM addressed things that I did not think still impacted me in a way that was positive and practical.

The new Alternative Therapy I learned was TCM, ways of thinking and addressing things.

I would love to stay involved with Project New Hope Inc. for future events and retreats and would like to volunteer. Thank you for everything you do!

Gallery

First Responders are invited to take a transformative step toward healing and resilience with workshops and therapies designed to resolve trauma, calm the mind, and regain joy. You answer the call for Americans 24 hours a day. This retreat is designed to provide a safe, supportive, and healing environment.

Everyone who attends will benefit from The Cortina Method (TCM), led by Trauma Resolution Expert Michael Cortina and his team. TCM helps resolve the trauma that leads to PTS, guilt, anger, fear, physical pain, or limiting beliefs. It offers a neuroscience-based solution for healing without requiring participants to relive any traumatic experiences.

Enjoy equine therapy, holistic yoga, Reiki, and reflexology, and other holistic wellness practices. Learn more about Michael Cortina and The Cortina Method at his website https://michaelcortina.com/.

Space is Limited: Only ten spots are available. Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation to the retreat location.

After you submit your application, a Project New Hope team member will contact you to complete a phone interview, which is required to confirm attendance. Per the instructions during the phone interview, you will need to submit a copy of your employer identification card or DD214.

Lodging, meals, and activities are all provided at no cost to participants. There is a $50 dollar registration fee that is refunded one week after the completion of the retreat. You must arrange your own transportation to and from Westfield, MA.

Please send questions to Sue at smwilder@projectnewhopema.org or call (508) 762-9738.

Priority Enrollment: First Responders who have not attended a Project New Hope retreat will receive priority consideration.

Join us in taking this step toward healing, resilience, and rediscovering joy in life.

  • November 6-10, 2025
  • Genesis Spiritual Life & Conference Center
    53 Mill Street
    Westfield, MA 01085

Couples Retreat – The Cortina Method (TCM) 2025

Couples Retreat for Veterans and Active Military Couples

How Did the Retreat Go?

Massage helped to ease tension.

Reiki calmed my mind.

Reflexology helped with some issues I did not know I had before.

TCM, can not say enough about what this has done for me. Amazing.

Would like to learn more about Alternative therapies such as Yoga, Massage, Reflexology and Reiki.

TCM, so far, so good.

The most beneficial activity was building relationships, growing close to my spouse, and learning new tools to use in life.

Time off from life every day.

Learned another tool to help deal with anxiety issues.

Had a fun time. TCM is interesting and potentially useful and helpful.

The Reflexology was outstanding! The daily Yoga was a plus.

The most beneficial activity for me was Yoga.

The daily shared experience as a group served to build community of support and self-collective intent.

TCM, the result was amazing, and I am sure it will be life changing.

I learned new Alternative Therapy such as breathing and Yoga.

All was great, the TCM visits were amazing.

I learned new Alternative Therapy such as Yoga and reflexology.

This TCM program was helpful and enlightening. It allowed me to think beyond the norm and work through some issues in a non-standard format.

The most beneficial activity was the TCM visits, opened my eyes to new ways to deal and cope with problems.

I learned new Alternative Therapy methods such as breathing and TCM techniques.

Excellent experience learned a lot about me and healing and communication.

The most beneficial activity was holistic. Needed the time-out and to relax from Stressors of life. TCM addressed things that I did not think still impacted me in a way that was positive and practical.

The new Alternative Therapy I learned was TCM, ways of thinking and addressing things.

I would love to stay involved with Project New Hope Inc. for future events and retreats and would like to volunteer. Thank you for everything you do!

Gallery

Join us for a week of impactful healing and workshops designed for couples to resolve traumas, calm your nervous system, enhance communication & conflict resolution, and more.

Each person attending will receive healing visits in the highly acclaimed The Cortina Method (TCM) delivered by Trauma Resolution Expert Michael Cortina and his team.  TCM is designed to heal PTS, Guilt, Anger, Fear, Physical Pain, Limiting Beliefs, and more.

Couples will learn:

  • Effective communication
  • Verbal and nonverbal cues
  • Power of Listening
  • Saying what you mean
  • Importance of asking questions

Enjoy equine therapy, holistic yoga, Reiki, and reflexology. Learn more about Michael Cortina and The Cortina Method at his website https://michaelcortina.com/.

Lodging, meals, and activities are all provided at no cost to participants. There is a $50 dollar registration fee that is refunded one week after the completion of the retreat. You must arrange your own transportation to and from Westfield, MA.

Please send questions to Sue at smwilder@projectnewhopema.org or call (508) 762-9738.

  • March 13-17, 2025
  • Genesis Spiritual Life & Conference Center
    53 Mill Street
    Westfield, MA 01085

A Men’s Veteran Healing Retreat – The Cortina Method (TCM) 2025

A Men’s Veteran Healing Retreat – The Cortina Method (TCM) 2025

How Did the Retreat Go?

“TCM – felt like I learned tools to get beyond my limiting beliefs and feel empowered going forward.”

“Reflexology – learned so much about my body that I didn’t know before.”

“Learned new alternative therapy like Art, Equine, Yoga, Reiki, Massage, Meditation and Reflexology.”

“Donna and Bill were incredible hosts for the retreat.”

“The agenda was amazing and well structured, all the instructors were incredible and knowledgeable.”

“Michelle was terrific in her TCM expertise.”

“TCM -very focused and it was nice trying some new things.”

“A great experience and a lovely group and glad that I came.”

“Not knowing what to expect, it was amazing experience.”

“Learning how to expose my struggles then cope with them was a huge benefit.”

“What was the most beneficial activity for you and why? TCM because it helped me heal my mind.”

“This experience was so amazing , I gained so many tools to better myself.”

“The compassion, empathy, and acceptance given to myself and other Veterans was amazing from the moment I was greeted by Donna I knew I was in safe space.  The serenity and peace that was provided I just needed to surrender and be a willing participant. Together, I was able to find that and as Sandy said, start from today and move forward.”

“Blessed to be part of the TRIBE.”

Gallery

This Retreat is now full

Do you struggle with PTS, Guilt, Anger, Fear, Physical Pain, or Limiting Beliefs?

The Cortina Method (TCM), delivered by Trauma Resolution Expert Michael Cortina and his team, resolves & dissolves these problem areas.

Based on neuroscience, TCM is Brain-Based Healing that helps people get over trauma, WITHOUT having to relive ANY pain.

Replace pain with joy, gratitude, relief, and excitement.

Enjoy equine therapy, holistic yoga, Reiki, and reflexology.

Learn more about Michael Cortina and The Cortina Method at his website https://michaelcortina.com/.

Lodging, meals, and activities are provided to participants at no cost. A registration fee of $50 will be refunded one week after the completion of the retreat. You must arrange for your own transportation.

Space is limited to 10 men.

Please send questions to Sue at smwilder@projectnewhopema.org or call (508) 762-9738.

  • August 7-11, 2025
  • Genesis Spiritual Life & Conference Center
    53 Mill Street
    Westfield, MA 01085

A Women’s Veteran Healing Retreat – The Cortina Method (TCM) 2025

A Women’s Veteran Healing Retreat – The Cortina Method (TCM) 2025

How Did the Retreat Go?

Yoga classes and bonding with everyone was beneficial.

Learning new TCM alternative therapy at retreat.

TCM and Gut Health were amazing and beneficial.

I was struggling with PTS, and I feel like I am managing so much better now.

I did not know what to expect, but I figured it cannot make me any worse. I cannot describe how grateful I am that I found this retreat. The PNH Team of Bill, Donna, Patty, and Debbie was amazing and managed us like champions.

I loved being outside with the horses and learning that I am not as allergic as I thought I was. I also loved Reflexology and Reiki and they were all beneficial to my healing.

I was very hesitant to come after signing up at first. I have not had good outcomes from group therapy, but I found out very quickly that this was not therapy, well not anything like I have been to before.

Everyone was impressed. All the events were so unexpected, and no one had to relive any trauma and we were saying amongst ourselves what happened without reliving anything. Breathing correctly has always been hard, now that I am taking and learning Yoga that will help me along with Reflexology to deal with chronic pain.

TCM was a surprise. The whole concept was very refreshing, and I feel 60% better than when I first got here. That is huge, I am looking forward to learning more.

Reflexology, Donna is the first person I let touch my feet and it was so beneficial.

The new alternative I learned was meditation and Yoga.

Thank you so much, I learned so much about myself and made great long-time friends and connections with the Yoga and Reflexology instructor.

TCM was beneficial and a definite and positive shift.

Project New Hope Inc. has given me an unbelievable gift in this retreat. I am living healthier in both body and brain. I know I am going to look back on this week for years to see this experience as a major pivotal experience in my life.

I do not know what or how it works but it did for me, my nighttime was different than before.

The most beneficial activity was the setting and different holistic modalities. A peaceful, safe, and secure setting provides physical comfort.

The new alternative therapy that I learned and experienced was Reiki.

Connecting with other women Veterans was beneficial and the alternative therapies like Yoga and walking in the woods on the ground.

The Gut Health class was impressive.

I am so incredibly thankful to Bill & Donna and Patty! To be with other female Vets is utterly amazing because we all get it!

I look forward to other PNH Retreats.

The most beneficial activity for me was the one-on-one with Michael. I can move on from issues that I felt were keeping me stuck. PTS issues that were problematic since I was a child have been resolved and I will reach my goals.

I will recommend TCM to other Veterans. Yoga with Clarissa, I cannot say enough positive things about her and the experience and positive contributions, she is amazing.

The Reflexology practioners was definite.

The Massage therapist was friendly and personable, and I enjoyed my massage.

The equine therapy was beneficial and the Gut/Brain connection with Lori was highly informative and beneficial.

The most beneficial part of the retreat was the friendliness and warm energy from the staff. They created a welcoming environment filled with positive activities inside a cozy and safe place.

I will practice the new alternative therapy of Reiki and Reflexology.

Thank you all for this retreat. I had an amazing time here and I am so glad that I stayed and got out of her car because when I first arrived, I was in a bad mood and took an hour and half to make up my mind about staying. All the modalities and activities were wonderful and really got everyone out of their heads and into a better-positive space, including myself.

Thank you all for the wonderful fulfilling week.

Thank you, Bill, Dona, Patty, and Genesis. Incredibly grateful to have been asked to attend and share Yoga. PNH is amazing and provides healing, community, support, a safe place, love, friendship, and a very welcome environment. This helps everyone to feel comfortable to share and be vulnerable.

Thank you, Project New Hope Inc. for making our Veterans feel seen and heard! WONDERFUL.

Gallery

This retreat is now full

Do you struggle with PTS, Guilt, Anger, Fear, Physical Pain, or Limiting Beliefs?

The Cortina Method (TCM), delivered by Trauma Resolution Expert Michael Cortina and his team, resolves & dissolves these problem areas.

Based on neuroscience, TCM is Brain-Based Healing that helps people get over trauma, WITHOUT having to relive ANY pain.

Replace pain with joy, gratitude, relief, and excitement.

Enjoy equine therapy, holistic yoga, Reiki, and reflexology.

Learn more about Michael Cortina and The Cortina Method at his website https://michaelcortina.com/.

Lodging, meals, and activities are provided to participants at no cost. A registration fee of $50 will be refunded one week after the completion of the retreat. You must arrange for your own transportation.

Space is limited to 10 women.

Please send questions to Sue at smwilder@projectnewhopema.org or call (508) 762-9738

  • May 1-5, 2025
  • Genesis Spiritual Life & Conference Center
    53 Mill Street
    Westfield, MA 01085

Veterans Mindfulness Meditation Retreat 2025

Veterans Mindfulness Meditation Retreat 2025

How Did the Retreat Go?

Testimonials

This is my first retreat with Project New Hope Inc. Donna, Bill and staff made us feel right at home. We look forward to the next retreat. Great people, Great times.

I am always appreciative of the healing methods and retreats provided by Project New Hope Inc. I look forward to possibly returning to another one for women Veterans. Keep up the great work.

This experience was enriching as I learned new ways to cope with stress and my inability to concentrate at times.

This was my first retreat with Project New Hope Inc., and it was amazing. It allowed me to relax and enjoy myself again. I now know the full power and benefit of meditation. I also no longer feel alone in the world. The Project New Hope staff did a phenomenal job.

Thank you, Project New Hope for offering alternatives to assist with Mental Health. The timing was right, and the number of days were perfect.

Gallery

Registrations are now closed

Living at Peace with our Un-peacefulness.

Post Traumatic Stress, Military and combat trauma are more than just a set of psychological symptoms, such as sleeplessness, anxiety, and depression. The more fundamental injuries are moral and spiritual in nature. Mindfulness-Meditation provides a road map that can support the practitioner in navigating a road to living at peace with un-peacefulness.

In this retreat we will learn meditation practices that are rooted in our daily life activities. These meditation practices can support us in coming to terms with the emotional, spiritual, and moral wounds of our training and combat services. Hundreds of Veterans have found these retreats invaluable in discovering how to live at peace with our un-peacefulness.

In Vietnam Claude AnShin Thomas, native of Pennsylvania, survived as a helicopter crew chief being shot down five times. On the fifth occasion, in mid-1967, he was shot down in the Mekong Delta. The pilot and commander were killed, and the gunner and Thomas were wounded. Thomas received 25 Air Medals, the equivalent of 625 combat hours, and 625 combat missions. Thomas also received the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Purple Heart.

1995 Claude AnShin Thomas became fully ordained as a Zen Buddhist in the Japanese Soto Zen tradition. He is the author of AT HELL’S GATE: A Soldier’s Journey from War to Peace (Shambhala 2004) and Bringing Meditation to Life (Oakwood Publishing, 2021). He has taken vows of mendicancy, meaning that he is reliant on the generosity of others for his sustenance. He has no permanent home but serves others through almost constant travel. So, the years and months of COVID have provided quite some challenges to this lifestyle.

A $50 fee/per person, $100/couple will be required at time of registration and will be refunded a week after completion of the retreat. If you cancel 2 weeks or less leading up to retreat, are a no-show or leave before the completion of Retreat your Deposit will not be refunded. Our retreats are 100% drug and alcohol free.

Lodging, meals, and activities are provided at no cost, but participants must arrange their own transportation to and from Grotonwood in Groton, Mass. Check-in 3:00 PM.

Please send questions to Sue at smwilder@projectnewhopema.org or call 508-762-9738

Retreat registration closes two weeks prior to the start date.

Proof of Military Service (no exceptions). Military ID, DD-214, VA Health Care Card or Driver’s License with “Veteran” on license will be required before attending retreat.

Mail, fax or email Proof of Military Service.
Project New Hope Inc.
70 James Street, Suite 129A
Worcester, MA 01603
Fax: 508-304-9245
dmoore@projectnewhopema.org

  • April 18-20, 2025
  • Grotonwood Conference Center
    167 Prescott Street
    Groton, MA 01450
  • Presenter:
    Claude AnShin Thomas
    United States Army