The 3rd Annual Psychosis Care and Connection Retreat Returns to Gould Farm

For over a century, Gould Farm has championed the idea that recovery happens through community and shared humanity. This summer, we are continuing that mission by hosting the third annual Psychosis Care and Connection: A Retreat on Humanistic Approaches from June 25-27, 2026.

REGISTER HERE

Co-hosted with our colleagues at Ellenhorn and the Austen Riggs Center, this year’s retreat is made possible through the support of a dedicated group of sponsors, including Lakewood, McLean Hospital, Help in the Home, The Bridge House, Silver Hill Hospital, Skyland Trail, Spring Lake Ranch, and Windhorse Integrative Mental Health. This gathering moves beyond the traditional clinical conference, offering a space for rigorous dialogue and experiential learning in the heart of the Berkshires.

Evolving the Dialogue: From Insight to Application

Since its inception three years ago, this retreat has prioritized the human dimensions of psychosis over rigid diagnostic labels. In years past, we’ve explored the concept of "inhabiting unease" and the power of transformative dialogue. This year, we are building on that foundation with a focus on:

Centering Lived Experience: Expanding our commitment to hearing from those who have navigated psychosis firsthand.

Broadening the Recovery Lens: Moving beyond symptom management to explore the vital roles of spirituality, the arts, and personal meaning.

Bridging Theory and Practice: Ensuring that the intellectual depth of our discussions translates into actionable insights for clinicians, families, and advocates.

Constructive Critique: Creating space for an honest look at where traditional psychiatric models fall short and how we can collectively offer better care.

2026 Featured Presenters & Abstracts

Dr. Michael Garrett, MD

Professor Emeritus of Clinical Psychiatry at SUNY Downstate Medical Center

"Why Do Many Otherwise Well-Meaning Psychiatrists Often Fail To Appreciate The Psychological Dimension Of Psychotic Suffering?"

Dr. Garrett will examine why many psychiatrists, though well-trained in pharmacology, often struggle to embrace psychological approaches. He will explore the barriers to engagement, including the adherence to strictly biological models and the fear that empathizing with psychotic suffering might overwhelm the clinician.

Hilary Kaul, LICSW

Director of Admissions & NY Operations at Ellenhorn

"Refocusing On Family Burden In Schizophrenia Care: Time-Limited In-Home Family Support Model"

Addressing the often-overlooked strain on caregivers, Hilary Kaul will present a 12-week family therapy model. This innovative in-home approach is designed to reduce caregiver burnout, improve symptom management, and lower long-term healthcare costs through evidence-based family case management.

Lived Experience Panel

Facilitated by Stacey Henson, LCSW, ACSW

Director of Clinical Outreach at Gould Farm

In a session inspired by The Moth storytelling format, individuals with lived experience will share ten-minute narratives. These stories focus on the human dimensions of psychosis—from the onset of symptoms to the pivotal moments of connection and hope—reminding us that lived experience is the most essential voice in shaping compassionate care.

Jeremy Ridenour, PsyD, ABPP

Staff Psychologist and Psychoanalyst at The Austen Riggs Center

"Hospitality In The Psychotherapy For Psychosis"

Dr. Ridenour applies the philosophical concept of "hospitality" to the clinical encounter. He will explore how clinicians can welcome the "otherness" of psychotic symptoms through relational, linguistic, and narrative hospitality, fostering a deeper dialogue even when a patient’s story seems idiosyncratic or fragmented.

Dr. Jeffrey Katzman, MD

Director of Silver Hill Academy for Research and Education

"Thinking Beyond Diagnosis: The Role Of Spirituality And The Arts In Treatment Of Severe Mental Illness"

Using the story of a creative author who regained her sense of self through poetry and ritual, Dr. Katzman will discuss how to prevent patients from "mistaking themselves for their diagnosis." He will highlight the role of affect tolerance, spirituality, and the arts in reclaiming a meaningful life.

Featured Author: Dr. Courtenay Harding, PhD

Retired Professor of Psychiatry and Rehabilitation

"Pioneering Model Care for Psychosis"

Drawing on her book, Recovery from Schizophrenia: Evidence, History, and Hope, Dr. Harding will present hard data that challenges the long-held belief that recovery from psychosis is impossible. She will discuss how program design and policy priorities are the primary drivers of successful outcomes.

Join Us

This retreat is a unique opportunity for clinicians, family members, and advocates to engage with leading minds in the field within the peaceful setting of Gould Farm and Stockbridge.

Dates: June 25-27, 2026

Locations: Stockbridge, MA and Gould Farm, Monterey, MA

View the Full Agenda & Register Here