July 2026 | Bermuda aboard Carnival Venezia
There are moments in life when you realize you’re standing in the middle of something you’ve dreamed about for years.
This was one of those moments.
After months of planning, writing, revising, designing manuals, obtaining continuing education approvals, and wondering if anyone would believe in the vision, Roots and Waves Clinical Training Institute hosted its very first Counselor Training at Sea.
And it exceeded every expectation I had.
More Than Continuing Education
From the very beginning, my vision was never simply to offer CE credits.
I wanted to create an experience.
One where counselors could step away from the demands of everyday practice, slow down, breathe, reconnect with themselves, and learn in an environment that reflected the work we ask our clients to do every day.
There is something powerful about discussing trauma, attachment, ethics, and clinician sustainability while looking out over an endless ocean.
The setting itself became part of the learning.
Learning Together
Throughout the week we explored topics including:
- Burnout, Compassion Fatigue & Clinician Sustainability
- Attachment, Safety & the Therapeutic Relationship
- Human Trafficking Awareness
Some sessions overlooked the open Atlantic. Others happened during dinner conversations that continued long after the formal presentation ended.
The discussions were thoughtful.
The questions were insightful.
The conversations reminded me why I became an educator in the first place.
The Greatest Gift: Honest Feedback
One of the greatest privileges of this inaugural training was learning alongside the counselors who attended.
Their willingness to ask questions, offer constructive feedback, share their experiences, and provide thoughtful evaluations was invaluable.
Because of them, I return home with not only gratitude, but a notebook full of ideas.
I know what worked.
I know what needs refining.
I know how to make the next experience even stronger.
That kind of feedback is a gift, and I am deeply thankful for each person who trusted me enough to be part of this first adventure.
Moments I’ll Never Forget
While the education was the purpose of the trip, some of my favorite memories happened between the sessions.
Watching the sunset over the Atlantic.
Walking the historic streets of Bermuda.
Spending time photographing the incredible scenery.
Editing beach photographs while listening to the waves.
Sharing stories with a remarkable 90-year-old woman celebrating her birthday, whose wisdom reminded me that a meaningful life is built one day, and one conversation, at a time.
Finding joy in hiding cruise ducks around the ship.
Those moments reminded me that rest isn’t something we earn after burnout.
It is something we intentionally build into our lives.
A Personal Milestone
This trip carried another celebration.
My friend and I celebrated our graduation from our PhD program. I had the room decorated! Carnival offers this neat package that you can prepurchase before you sail. We did have to request the bed to be split into two singles, but it was wonderful to walk into seeing this.
After years of dedication, research, long nights, and perseverance, it was an incredible way to acknowledge a milestone that means so much to us.
It was the perfect reminder that this season of life is one of growth, gratitude, and new beginnings.
What This Experience Taught Me
As we sailed back toward New York, I found myself reflecting on everything this week represented.
It wasn’t just a successful training.
It was proof that a dream I’ve carried for years could become reality.
Like any first endeavor, there were lessons.
There are things I’ll improve.
Activities I’ll adjust.
Resources I’ll expand.
Experiences I’ll enhance.
And honestly…
I’m excited about every one of those changes.
Growth is exactly what this first voyage was meant to inspire.
Looking Ahead
While I was genuinely excited to return home to my family, I wasn’t quite ready to step off the ship.
That feeling confirmed something I already suspected:
This is exactly what I’m supposed to be doing.
To every counselor who attended…
Thank you.
To my family and friends for believing in this dream…
Thank you.
To everyone who has encouraged Roots and Waves Clinical Training Institute from the very beginning…
Thank you.
This wasn’t simply a successful event.
It was the beginning of something much bigger.
Join Us Next Time!
I’m thrilled to announce that registration is open for our next Counselor Training at Sea!
June 2027
Carnival Vista
Bahamas
If you’re looking for a continuing education experience that combines professional growth, meaningful connection, and intentional restoration, I’d love for you to join us.
Up to 10 CE hours for counselors and addiction professionals is available and included in the registration fee.
Click here for more information and to register
With Gratitude
As I prepare to begin an exciting new chapter. One that allows me to devote even more time to education, supervision, consultation, and building Roots and Waves Clinical Training Institute, I do so with a heart that is incredibly full.
This first cruise taught me something I’ll carry forward into every future training:
Sometimes the hardest part isn’t creating the dream.
It’s believing you’re allowed to pursue it.
This voyage reminded me that when passion meets purpose, and you’re willing to take the leap, you discover that the horizon isn’t the end of the journey.
It’s only the beginning.