Our Team
Nicole Ripley, Registered Clinical Counsellor & Group Clinic Owner, Clinical Facilitator & Host
Meet our remarkable businesswoman, a true trailblazer in her field, Nicole Ripley, RCC, who has achieved unparalleled success in her entrepreneurial endeavors in the counselling industry. With a remarkable track record of opening and managing seven thriving locations in British Columbia, Canada, she has demonstrated her exceptional leadership skills and business acumen.
Her unwavering determination and strategic vision have propelled her ventures to unprecedented heights. Now, this inspiring entrepreneur is ready to share her knowledge and expertise by hosting exciting networking events and feature segments with our retreat participants. Through her engaging presence and wealth of experience, Nicole creates an atmosphere of inspiration and empowerment, fostering a vibrant community of like-minded individuals eager to expand their professional networks, explore strategic planning, and take their careers to new heights.
Chantelle Froats, Primary Host, Business & Operations Facilitator
Chantelle is a seasoned professional with a strong background in hospitality and event management. . Chantelle brings over 15 years of business development with expertise in growing businesses of all kinds, has had leadership roles in nation wide franchise and multi-unit private organizations.
Passionate about the field of mental health, Chantelle recognizes the immense dedication of professionals who devote their time, energy, and careers to caring for and helping others. She wholeheartedly believes that these professionals also deserve dedicated time to focus on themselves, recharge, and rejuvenate. It is with this conviction that she takes immense pride in collaborating with amazing professionals to host these retreats.
In the role of Managing Director for a rapidly growing Group Clinic, Chantelle bringing a wealth of knowledge to Retreat Season offering extensive knowledge on the core foundations of running a sustainable therapeutic practice.
Nicky Darko, Office Manager & Host
Nicky is an exceptional individual with a deep-rooted passion for self-care, wellness, and rejuvenation. As a devoted mother of three boys, she understands the importance of finding balance in life and consistently advocates for self-care practices.
Nicky’s organizational skills and unwavering commitment to creating a nurturing and safe space make her an invaluable asset to the Retreat Season Team. Nicky's warm and compassionate nature shines through in her interactions, leaving a lasting impact on our participants.
In her free time, she enjoys outdoor adventures with her children, instilling in them the value of self-reflection and appreciating the beauty of the world around us. Nicky's dedication and enthusiasm make her an exceptional admin representative, guiding others towards self-discovery and personal fulfillment.
Guest Facilitators
Tami O’Meara. Registered Clinical Counsellor and Clinical Hypnotherapist, Facilitator
For the past 25 years, Tami has dedicated herself to the field of counselling as a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Clinical Hypnotherapist. Alongside her extensive experience, she's developed a passion for motivational speaking, providing practical tools applicable to both personal and professional spheres. Drawing from her own life experiences and evidence-based methods, Tami delivers valuable insights tailored to diverse audiences.
As a trailblazing athlete who made headlines as the first female quarterback on a male football team (which was later made into a Hollywood film where Helen Hunt plays the role of Tami) Tami gleaned invaluable insights into confidence-building and navigating gender-related challenges. These experiences continue to inform her work, inspiring others in unexpected ways.
Tami holds a Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care from University of Victoria and a Master of Education in Counselling from University of North British Columbia. She is also a registered Clinical Hypnotherapist with the Alberta Association for Clinical Hypnosis. Known for her inspirational and humorous approach, Tami has engaged diverse audiences, including youth, parents, educators, counsellors, and community groups, leaving a lasting impact wherever she goes. We are excited to have Tammi join us in Tulum Mexico.
Lisa Catallo, Registered Clinical Counsellor and Canadian Certified Counsellor, Facilitator
We are honored to introduce Lisa Catallo, a Registered Clinical Counsellor, Canadian Certified Counsellor and Group Practice Business Coach working out of the Vancouver, BC area. Lisa grew from private practice to now running a group practice that includes over 20 practitioners and 2 locations. As she started her first group practice, she recognized the fact that there wasn't a lot of support for Canadian therapists building and growing a group practice. The Group Practice Network was created to provide a place for group practice owners (GPO) to Grow as a Leader | Gain Support | Get Connected.
Over time Lisa has helped hundreds of Canadian therapists start and grow thriving group practices. Lisa is committed to helping other GPO create a business that has efficient systems that help them be an effective leader and have the time and freedom to be present for their family. She is also passionate about helping GPO see themselves as a business owner/CEO and find connection and support from other Canadian group practice owners who understand the struggles and celebrations of this role.
We are honoured to have Lisa join us at the upcoming Alaska Retreat & GPO Greece Retreat.
Becky Palmer, Registered Clinical Counsellor, Facilitator
We are delighted to introduce Becky Palmer, RCC, MACP, BSP, as a seasoned Registered Clinical Counsellor, specializing in guiding individuals and groups through a journey of self-discovery, growth, and well-being.
Becky extends a warm welcome to participants of the 2025 Alaska Cruise Retreat seeking a transformative experience. Becky recognizes the importance of creating a safe space where adults can reconnect with themselves and navigate life's complexities. Utilizing her skills, she empowers participants to explore their personal narratives, delve into emotions and sensations, and access self-empowerment.
With a rich background as a Military Pharmacy Officer in the Canadian Forces, Becky brings a trauma informed perspective, a focus on leadership and a medical expertise to her practice.
Becky holds a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University, and her commitment to community well-being extends beyond the retreat setting. An engaging speaker, she has presented at various workshops and conferences for professionals and individuals alike. Beyond her role as a clinical counsellor, Becky finds joy in continuous learning, travel, and spending meaningful time with her blended family.
Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Group Practice Owner and Entrepreneurial Therapist
Ashlyn Douglass-Barnes is a seasoned therapist, group practice owner, and supervisor for under-licensed providers, who has successfully expanded income streams and helped fellow therapists do the same. Leveraging niche expertise, Ashlyn has developed comprehensive resources including niche-specific trainings, templates, and worksheets designed to elevate therapeutic practices.
Ashlyn founded a niche-specific directory and authored a self-published journal, both aimed at enhancing client engagement and therapeutic outcomes. Committed to fostering community, Ashlyn created a Facebook group where therapists can connect, reduce loneliness, and feel less isolated in their work.
With extensive experience in providing therapist-to-therapist coaching, consulting on complex cases to reduce liability, and supporting therapists in building confidence and competence within the niche, Ashlyn has guided many in integrating niche-specific services into their practices, fostering both professional growth and increased income.
Ashlyn will share her story and strategies that have helped build a thriving practice with multiple income streams at our upcoming GPO Retreat in Greece.