Deluxe Beachfront King
Spacious with a beautiful ocean view, plenty of closet space, and a lovely terrace overlooking the Caribbean.
Single$5,025
Double$3,950 pp
5-Night Yoga and Meditation Retreat: Mindfulness and Mind-Body Approaches for Clinical Practice
Six days in Tulum to restore yourself and sharpen your clinical edge.
Join Mary NurrieStearns at Amansala Eco-Chic Resort for a yoga, meditation, and mind-body intensive on one of the world's top five beaches. Earn up to 21 CE hours, a free certification, and the kind of rest your nervous system has been asking for.
When
Jan 15–20, 2027
5 nights
5 nights
Where
Amansala Resort
Tulum, Mexico
Tulum, Mexico
CE Hours
Up to 21
across professions
across professions
Certification
CMIP Included
$99 value, free
$99 value, free
Meals
All-Inclusive
daily, fresh, local
daily, fresh, local
Starting At
$3,875
single · shared rates avail.
single · shared rates avail.
Limited spots · Reserve early — past retreats have filled before the deadline
This isn't another CE course.
It's a recalibration.
You already know talk therapy alone doesn't always reach what your clients are carrying. The body holds what the conversation can't. The nervous system needs more than insight.
And honestly — so does yours.
This retreat exists because the clinicians who do this work the longest are the ones who learn to practice what they teach. Mindfulness, breathwork, EFT, gentle yoga, compassion practices — not as concepts in a slide deck, but as skills you've moved through your own body before you offer them to a client.
For six days, you'll do exactly that. You'll learn substantive, evidence-supported mind-body interventions from a clinician with four decades of practice. You'll leave with up to 21 CE hours, a new certification, and tools you'll use in session next week.
You'll also sleep. Eat well. Walk barefoot in the sand. Remember what your own nervous system feels like at rest.
No yoga or meditation experience is required!
Real learning and real rest, in equal measure. That's the retreat.
What You'll Learn
One retreat. Three modalities.
One retreat. Three modalities.
A career's worth of new tools.
Join seasoned retreat host, mindfulness expert, and certified yoga therapist Mary NurrieStearns, MSW, LCSW, C–C–IAYT, E–RYT 500, and a small group of clinical colleagues for an immersive six-day training designed to enrich your clients' lives — and your own.
As clinicians, you know that talk therapy alone isn't always enough to treat the roots of depression and anxiety.
Immersive mind-body practices — meditation, yoga, EFT — can help regulate the nervous system and support healing in ways conversation alone sometimes can't.
And these tools become life-long skills. Your client carries them long after they leave your therapy room.
This retreat prepares you to integrate the foundations of mindfulness to address negative thoughts of depression, worrying thoughts of anxiety, and thoughts that intensify chronic pain.
By the end of this retreat, you'll be able to:
- 01Incorporate breathing practices and meditation, lead simple yoga movements, and utilize Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) with individual clients and groups
- 02Integrate foundations of mindfulness interventions for addressing depression and chronic pain
- 03Utilize body/mind interventions to treat anxiety and calm the nervous system
- 04Use EFT for emotional regulation, gentle exposure of emotions, and to increase self-acceptance
- 05Guide clients into present moment awareness and teach them to respond to unworthiness with compassion
This retreat is rich in interactive mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and mind/body treatment approaches. You'll follow a balanced schedule of gentle yoga movement, chanting meditation, clinical teachings, art expression, group discussion, and deep rest — and learn how each of these tools can help you and your clients.
View Full Learning Objectives & Curriculum Outline
21 Detailed Learning Objectives
- Evaluate negativity bias in the brain as it pertains to depression.
- Utilize concentration, distancing, naming, and thought substitution to change depression-producing thoughts.
- Identify how emotional motivation systems of the brain impact emotional distress.
- Utilize therapeutic mindfulness to manage imbalances in emotional motivation systems of the brain.
- Determine how mindfulness protocols activate the affiliation system of the brain.
- Examine the default network of the brain, including placebo and nocebo effects, as it pertains to depression.
- Determine the benefits of including the body in emotional regulation strategies for anxiety treatment.
- Choose clinical skills of breathing, body scan, and body movement for stabilization.
- Utilize mindfulness interventions to dis-identify from a narrative of unworthiness.
- Identify four compassion practices to increase self-acceptance.
- Utilize compassionate interventions for treating the "inner critic" part of self.
- Integrate mindfulness breathing practices into depression treatment.
- Utilize EFT techniques, including tapping points and set-up statements, for affect regulation.
- Determine the five components of EFT used for regulating affect in anxiety.
- Use body awareness to alleviate the physical manifestations of shame.
- Choose mindfulness techniques to address negative thoughts.
- Develop a mindful communications process for conflict resolution.
- Choose mindfulness techniques to reduce the shame of overeating.
- Identify limitations of mindfulness applications as clinical interventions for depression and anxiety.
- Determine limitations of EFT as an emotional regulation skill.
- Utilize mindful yoga movement to reduce emotional distress.
Mindfulness Fundamentals
- Definition & components of mindfulness
- Mindfulness as conscious relationship
- Mindfulness & neuroplasticity
- Mindfulness & cultivating beneficial mind states
Brain Perspective
- Evolutionary model of the brain
- Negativity bias of the brain for survival
- Social brain: causes & conditions
- Default network of the brain
- Placebo & nocebo effect
- Emotional centers of the brain–affiliation, threat, drive.
- Nervous system responses to perceived stressors
- Basic neuroscience as psychoeducation
Mindfulness Interventions
- Conscious mind/store consciousness - awareness & choices
- Consumption of thoughts & relationship to thoughts
- Sense of identity & mindfulness – you are more than your thoughts
- Concentration, observation, naming, distancing – application of mindfulness components in treating thoughts associated with depression & anxiety
- Mindfulness & brain training to activate affiliation system of the brain
- Specific mindfulness of breathing practices for depression
- Clinical applications of mindfulness of body, emotions & thoughts
- Accessing beneficial ancestor memories
- Mindfulness communications process for conflict & connection
- Breathing practices, present moment awareness & mindful yoga movements to lessen anxious states of physiological arousal
Importance of Body in Emotional Regulation Skills
- Cultivate client resilience - resourcing & safety
- Utilize window of tolerance to monitor level of client distress & impact of mindfulness & EFT interventions
- Practice breathing practices, body scans & body movements to calm & or wake up nervous system
Utilize Emotional Freedom Techniques for Anxiety
- Protocol of EFT (including tapping points and set–up statements) for affect regulation
- Utilize EFT to approach & expose, versus avoid, emotions
- Utilize EFT to identify emotions in the body as physical sensations
- Utilize EFT to increase client self-acceptance
- Five key components of EFT needed for effective use in affect regulation
- Reinforce therapeutic gains with EFT
Respond to Chronic States of Distress with Compassion
- Utilize compassion to approach, versus avoid, experiences of shame
- Psychoeducation on origins of & identification with shame
- Label shame as innocent misunderstanding of identity
- Four compassion practices to increase self–acceptance & decrease self-rejection
- Effects of self-criticism
- Acknowledge inner critic & specific compassion practices for critical parts of self
- Body awareness & movement to alleviate the physical manifestations of shame
- Reinforce therapeutic gains with self–compassion
Applications of Mindfulness and EFT for Addressing Pain & Overeating
- Primary & secondary causes of pain
- Mindfulness techniques for addressing pain
- EFT for pain, muscular tension, & fear–based thoughts
- Danger in me (DIM) and safety in me (SIM) thoughts & choices
- EFT for urge management & shame of overeating, including exposure & self-acceptance
- The effect of self-criticism on urge management & self–compassion for urge management
Mindfulness & Body/Mind Approaches for Clinical Groups
- Teaching mindful breathing & mindful yoga movement
- Learn EFT protocols for group work
- Utilize body-focused approaches to teach present moment awareness, quiet the mind & soothe emotional distress
Research Limitations & Potential Risks
Meet Your Retreat Instructor
Mary NurrieStearns
MSW, LCSW, ACEP–EFT, C–C–IAYT, E–RYT 500
Mary is a licensed clinical social worker with four decades of professional experience, a certified trauma-informed yoga therapist with over 1,200 hours of teacher training, and a long-time student of Thich Nhat Hanh — ordained into his Order of Interbeing. She has trained extensively in clinical Emotional Freedom Techniques and holds ACEP certification.
She is the author of Healing Anxiety, Depression and Unworthiness, and co-author of Yoga for Anxiety, Yoga for Emotional Trauma, and Yoga Mind, Peaceful Mind.
4 decades
Clinical Practice
1,200+
Hours of Yoga Teacher Training
20+ years
Leading Transformation Retreats
5 books
On Mindfulness & Healing
Ordained
Order of Interbeing, Thich Nhat Hanh
ACEP
Certified in Clinical EFT
Co-Facilitator
Rick NurrieStearns
Rick has co-led transformation retreats with Mary for twenty years and has been immersed in consciousness, meditation, and mindfulness practices for more than four decades. He relies on these practices to live with chronic pain from a 2009 airplane crash and a tick-borne disease diagnosed in 2014 — and to teach what he has learned about finding peace inside hurt.
About Your Retreat Center
Amansala Eco-Chic Resort
Amansala Eco-Chic Resort
Barefoot luxury on the Caribbean.
Amansala is loved by retreaters across the world because it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, soulful wellness, and authentic connection — creating an experience that feels both transformative and deeply relaxing.
You couldn't get closer to the beach. Spend your days barefoot in the sand. Amansala provides the transformative setting you'd expect for a retreat — leaving you feeling refreshed, inspired, and truly changed.
Stunning Beachfront
Wake to the Caribbean. Fall asleep to the waves. The ocean is twenty feet away.
Holistic Wellness
Daily yoga, meditation, and nourishing meals built around mind-body restoration.
On-Site Spa
Massage therapy and treatments from Amansala's signature wellness team.
Authentic Atmosphere
Rustic-luxury accommodations that feel of the place, not imported into it.
Built-In Adventure
Cenote swims, Mayan ruins, traditional ceremonies — easily arranged on-site.
Free Time, Well Spent
Tulum, beyond the palapa.
Your afternoons and free hours are yours. Amansala can arrange any of the following — or just lay comfortably in one of their daybeds with your favorite book.
Cenote Swimming
The freshwater caves of the Yucatán are unlike anything else on earth.
Mayan Ruins
Walk a thousand-year-old clifftop city overlooking the sea.
Mayan Ceremonies
Traditional rituals led by local practitioners on the property.
Spa & Bodywork
Massage, facials, and treatments at the on-site spa palapa.
Choose Your Accommodations
Five room types, all eco-chic.
All rooms come with nightly air-conditioning, WiFi, ensuite bathrooms, alternating-day housekeeping, hair and body care products, and gallons of drinkable water. Pricing reflects all-inclusive retreat tuition — meals, sessions, CE, and CMIP certification all included.
Reserve →
Superior King
An extra-spacious, light-filled room with a king bed. Not beachfront, but larger and brighter than our Garden Plus rooms.
Single$4,525
Double$3,675 pp
Garden Plus King
Spacious room with a king bed, set in our garden area with a bit more space and light.
Single$4,100
Double$3,450 pp
Garden Basic King
Our most economical room with a queen bed, private bathroom, and closet — located toward the back of the property.
Single$3,875
Double$3,350 pp
Double Room
Two closets, two double beds, and a nice, spacious bathroom. Perfect for sharing with a colleague or friend.
Shared$3,525 pp
Bringing a non-participating guest? Call our Retreats Team at 800-844-8260 or email retreatinfo@pesi.com to sign them up!
Transparency
What's included — and what isn't.
Your Tuition Covers
- Mindfulness & mind-body approaches for clients' depression, anxiety, and more
- Education and experiential guidance in yoga, meditation, EFT, & other techniques
- CMIP Certification application fee — a $99.99 value
- Up to 21 CE Hours, CE certificate, & course manual
- Daily breakfast, brunch, afternoon snack, and dinner
- Eco-chic lodging with private bathrooms
- Non-CE yoga and meditation practices with Mary NurrieStearns
- Salsa Dancing Class
- WiFi access in your room and throughout the resort
Not Included
- Flight to and from Mexico
- Travel insurance
- Shuttle to and from Amansala
- 1 Dinner (one night for you to explore Tulum or order from the Amansala restaurant)
- Excursions or other off-site activities
- Alcoholic drinks, smoothies, or mocktails available for purchase at the bar
- Spa treatments
Certification, Included
Step into your career as a
Step into your career as a
Certified Mindfulness-Informed Professional.
Elevate your career with a new credential. Walk away from this retreat with CMIP earned — no hidden fees, no catch.
i.
Attend the Retreat
Six days, fully present. CE credit requires full attendance.
ii.
Complete the CE Test
Demonstrate the foundations you learned — straightforward and online.
iii.
Submit Your Application
PESI covers your $99.99 application fee with Evergreen Certifications.
CMIP is a credential you can add to your practice listings, your professional bio, your marketing materials, and your client-facing communications. It signals to clients and referral partners that your mindfulness-informed work meets established professional standards. Learn more about CMIP →
*Professional and clinical standards apply.
We partner with Evergreen Certifications to include certification with some of our products. When you purchase such a product, we may disclose your information to Evergreen Certifications for purposes of providing services directly to you or to contact you regarding relevant offers.
Retreat Schedule
Your retreat, gently structured.
Subject to change. CE-eligible sessions are flagged below.
Friday, January 15, 2027
3:00–6:00 pmCheck-in
6:00–7:00 pmDinner
7:00–7:25 pmOrientation & Property Overview (required)
7:30–8:30 pmEducational Program CE
Saturday, January 16
6:30 amSunrise Meditation
7:00–8:00 amLight Breakfast
8:30–11:00 amEducational Program CE
11:00 am–12:00 pmBrunch
12:00–3:00 pmRestoration and Relaxation
2:00–3:30 pmAfternoon Snack
3:00–5:00 pmEducational Program CE
5:15–6:15 pmYoga and Yoga Nidra
6:30–7:30 pmDinner
7:30–9:00 pmSalsa Dancing
Sunday, January 17
6:00–7:15 amYoga and Yoga Nidra
7:00–8:00 amLight Breakfast
8:30–11:00 amEducational Program CE
11:00 am–12:00 pmBrunch
12:00–2:00 pmEducational Program CE
2:00–9:00 pmRestoration and Relaxation
2:00–3:30 pmAfternoon Snack
EveningDinner — on your own
Monday, January 18
6:30 amSunrise Meditation
7:00–8:00 amLight Breakfast
8:30–10:30 amEducational Program CE
11:00 am–12:00 pmBrunch
12:00–2:00 pmEducational Program CE
2:00–3:30 pmAfternoon Snack
2:30–5:00 pmRestoration and Relaxation
5:15–6:15 pmYoga and Yoga Nidra
6:30–7:30 pmDinner
7:30–9:00 pmEducational Program CE
Tuesday, January 19
6:30 amSunrise Meditation
7:00–8:00 amLight Breakfast
8:30–10:30 amEducational Program CE
11:00 am–12:00 pmBrunch
12:00–2:00 pmEducational Program CE
2:00–3:30 pmAfternoon Snack
2:30–5:00 pmRestoration and Relaxation
5:15–6:15 pmYoga and Yoga Nidra
6:30–7:30 pmDinner
7:30–9:00 pmEducational Program CE
Wednesday, January 20
6:30 amSunrise Meditation
7:00–8:00 amLight Breakfast
8:30–9:30 amClosing Circle
10:00 am–12:00 pmCheck-Out & Depart
CE is awarded during specified times. Licensing boards require full attendance to the entire retreat, including departure day, to receive any credit for the entire retreat. Please plan travel accordingly.
A Day in the Life
You wake slowly, wrapped in soft linens and ocean air. Maybe you slip on sandals — or maybe you don't, grabbing your beach towel on the way out.
Coffee and homemade ginger tea are already waiting in the open-air lounge — warm, fragrant, grounding. Mug in hand, you walk a few steps — no more than 25 feet — to the edge of the sea to meet Mary for sunrise meditation.
The ocean keeps its ancient rhythm — washing in, washing out — but this moment feels entirely unique. The horizon shifts from coral to gold, and you begin to understand what people mean when they say time slows down in Tulum. The pace here is intentional. Spacious. Each moment lingers just a little longer.
A light breakfast follows: fresh fruit, chia pudding, something simple and nourishing.
By 8:30, you're in the open-air training space. Now, you're a student again. Notebook open. Focus sharp. Mary is teaching the neuroscience of negativity bias, and already, faces come to mind — clients who will benefit from this work.
As the session winds down, the aroma from the kitchen begins to drift in — warm, inviting, impossible to ignore. Brunch is served: vibrant, healthful Mexican cuisine, prepared fresh.
Then the day softens.
A nap in a shaded daybed. A cool swim in a nearby cenote. A massage at the spa. A barefoot walk down the beach to a tucked-away café for fresh ceviche. Or finally finishing the book that's been waiting patiently in your bag, now open in the quiet of your room.
When the afternoon heat settles in, a delicious snack hits the spot, and so does Amansala's healthy juice of the day.
Heading back into the shala, you'll reconvene with the group for a short, hands-on afternoon session that reconnects you to your practice. Yoga as the sun begins to lower.
Dinner under string lights. Salsa dancing lessons, a jacuzzi soak, or conversation over candlelit tables — all available to you.
And tomorrow… you get to do it again.
This is what restoration and immersion feel like in Tulum — where deep rest and meaningful work exist in the same breath.
From Clinicians Who've Been Here
Real reflections from past attendees.
Amazing presentation. I left with applicable tools I can use in my practice now.
Allison S.Counselor
She was incredibly knowledgeable and a very effective teacher. I am definitely looking for more trainings with her.
Melanie M.Psychologist
This was a wonderful retreat experience. I learned so much and will apply all of it to both my professional and personal practice. Mary was a fantastic instructor and created a safe and supportive learning environment. It was a good balance of lecture and experiential activities.
Kitty R.Social Worker
Very informative presentation. Valuable tools taught to use with my clients. I learned a lot about yoga, meditation, and mindfulness, which are beneficial for my clients and myself, and LOVED the training. Thank you!
Denise S.Counselor
It was both relevant and beneficial to me as a person and my growth — and also to my growth as a therapist. It was a truly wonderful, transforming experience, and I am truly grateful.
Diane B.Counselor
And what guests say about Amansala
"From the moment we arrived at Amansala, we knew we were in for a world-class experience. This isn't just a place to stay; it is a beautifully curated retreat that strikes the perfect balance between barefoot luxury and sophisticated elegance."— Trip Advisor
"The food is amazing, the beach is unreal. I've never stayed closer to the water's edge. This place is amazing."— Wendy, Retreat Host
"This has been by far the best retreat experience I've ever led. They have a great system. They make it so easy and accommodating for the groups."— Scott, Retreat Host
"The gorgeous surroundings, comfortable beds and rooms, and beautiful staff and management make this a perfect rejuvenating experience. I look forward to returning."— Trip Advisor
Who Should Attend
This retreat is for clinicians who hold space.
- Counselors
- Social Workers
- Psychotherapists
- Marriage and Family Therapists
- Behavioral Health Nurses
- Psychologists
- Addiction Counselors
- Mental Health Professionals
Plan Your Trip
Important Retreat Information.
Retreat Location
Amansala Resort, Beachclub and SpaCarretera Tulum-Boca Paila KM 5
77765 Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Travel Information
The Amansala website has a large FAQ section — please read it before booking.
Retreat Center Travel Information & FAQs
Which airport do I fly into?
Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico, is located approximately 2 hours south on the coast from Cancun. Click here for Google Maps. The largest airport nearby is Cancun International Airport (CUN). Tulum also has a small airport (TQO). Please review the retreat's schedule above and plan flights/travel accordingly.
Shuttle Service
Two to four weeks prior to the retreat, PESI will send a link to book your shuttle service from the Cancun or Tulum airport. Participants will be grouped together by their arrival times and will be in a shared shuttle.
From Cancun airport: You will find the driver as you exit and he will hold a sign saying Amansala. If you have any problems locating your driver you can also email us at amansalahotels@gmail.com.
Accessibility
Amansala is generally considered accessible for many guests; however, the property is beachfront and includes some uneven pathways, stairs in certain areas, and walking on sand throughout the property. Because every guest's mobility needs are different, we highly recommend that guests with specific accessibility concerns contact Amansala directly via WhatsApp so they can answer your questions in detail and help determine the best room placement and arrangements for your comfort.
If mobility is a concern, please contact Amansala via the link above before registering with PESI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions, answered.
Everything you need to know before you book. Still have a question? Email retreatinfo@pesi.com or call 800-844-8260 and ask for our Retreats Team.
Before You Book
Is this retreat right for me if I've never done yoga or meditation?
Yes. No prior yoga or meditation experience is needed. Mary's instruction is designed for clinicians of every experience level, and all movement practices are gentle and accessible. You'll learn by doing — and you'll be guided every step of the way.
Can I bring a non-participating partner, friend, or family member?
You can. Amansala is an all-inclusive retreat center, so any guest staying with you is billed separately for their room and board. Please call us at 800-844-8260 and ask for the Retreats Team to arrange a non-participating guest's stay.
I'm traveling solo. Will I be the only one?
Not even close. Most clinicians who attend Mary's retreats come on their own, and the group bonds quickly. Sunrise meditations, shared meals, and small-group practice sessions make connection effortless.
Can I share a room to save money?
Yes. Double-occupancy rates are significantly lower than single-occupancy. Please note that PESI does not match roommates — you'll need to coordinate that on your own. Call 800-844-8260 to book a double-occupancy reservation.
Is this retreat tax-deductible as professional development?
For many clinicians, yes. Tax rules vary by jurisdiction and individual circumstance, so please consult your accountant or tax advisor to confirm what applies to you.
What's your cancellation policy?
From your purchase date until December 1, 2026: full refund less a $100 administrative fee. From December 1, 2026 through the retreat: 50% penalty of the total purchase amount. We strongly recommend travel insurance with a "cancel for any reason" option.
Travel & Logistics
Which airport do I fly into?
The largest nearby airport is Cancun International Airport (CUN), approximately two hours north of Tulum. Tulum also has a smaller airport (TQO). Please review the retreat schedule before booking — full attendance is required for CE credit.
Do I need a passport?
Yes. U.S. citizens must present a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date of January 20, 2027 to enter Mexico.
Should I get travel insurance?
We strongly recommend it. A "cancel for any reason" policy protects your tuition, flights, and shuttle costs against illness, family emergencies, weather, or any other circumstance that prevents you from attending.
What currency is used in Tulum? Should I bring cash?
Mexican pesos are the local currency, though U.S. dollars are widely accepted at Amansala and in tourist areas. Bring some cash for tips, your shuttle (if not prepaid), and any excursions or spa services.
Is tipping expected?
There is already a gratuity included in your program fee. However, tips for the shuttle drivers, spa therapists and extra drink or food service are customary.
At the Retreat
Is there a dress code?
Beach-casual throughout. Loose, comfortable clothing you can move in for yoga and meditation. The vibe is barefoot-luxury, not formal.
Can Amansala accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes. Amansala's kitchen works with the philosophy of "from the earth to your plate." They can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and most allergy-based requirements. Please notify Amansala of your dietary needs when you book.
Is there WiFi?
Yes — WiFi is available in your room and throughout the resort.
What should I pack?
Swimsuit, lightweight clothing for warm days, a light layer for evenings, comfortable clothing for yoga and meditation, sandals, sunscreen, sun hat, insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, your passport, and any personal medications. Bring a notebook and pen for sessions. Amansala provides yoga mats, towels, and toiletries.
CE & Certification
How many CE hours can I earn?
Up to 21 CE hours. Credit hours may vary by board and profession.
Do I have to attend the entire retreat to receive CE credit?
Yes. Most licensing boards require full attendance to the entire program. Please plan your travel accordingly.
How does the CMIP certification work?
Three steps: attend the retreat, complete the CE test, and submit your application to Evergreen Certifications. PESI covers your $99.99 certification application fee.
January 15–20, 2027 · Tulum, Mexico
Six days that will change how you practice.
You already have the heart for this work. In January 2027, you can have the embodied skills, the certification, and the rest your nervous system has been asking for — all at once, in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Reserve Your Spot — From $3,875Rooms are limited and historically fill before the early registration deadline. Book now to secure yours.
Click here for CE details · Click here for cancellation policy details
Tulum Retreat · Jan 15–20, 2027
From $3,875 · Up to 21 CE Hours · CMIP Included