A Retreat for Couples who are Parents of Children with Disabilities

THE JOURNEY TOGETHER - A Retreat for Couples who are Parents of Children with Disabilities At LA CASA DE MARIA RETREAT CENTER

In beautiful Montecito (just south of Santa Barbara) Saturday, November 14, 2009 9am – 5pm

This day-long retreat will be an opportunity for you and your spouse to leave behind your daily routines and join with other couples who have the similar life experience of raising a child or children with disabilities. Fathers will be able to talk with fathers; mothers with mothers. Most importantly, you will have the opportunity to talk with EACH OTHER and come away with specific strategies that will enhance your relationship as a couple.

Facilitated by Diane Simon Smith, MPH, MA, MFT and

Gifford (Giff) Smith, MDiv, MA (818) 888-1524

Cost per couple (including lunch & snacks): $195

Register by October 30th using attached Registration Form - Register early as space is limited

Diane Simon Smith brings unique personal and professional experience to her work with families of children with special needs. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, she has worked for over 14 years with parents raising children with disabilities, as they struggle with issues of loss

and rebuilding new meaning. She leads parent groups and holds an annual retreat for mothers. Her own two challenged sons have been her greatest teachers.

Gifford Smith is a Board Certified Interventionist, ordained minister,, inspirational speaker, gifted teacher, counselor, and retreat leader. Together with Diane, Giff has raised two step-sons with special needs and feels especially blessed while maintaining his sense of humor.