You’ve spent years taking care of everyone else—

Now it’s time to take your life back

Don’t Call Me Strong Retreat Recap

Don’t Call Me Strong is a powerful weekend just for Black women who are tired of being the one who always has to hold it all together. If you’ve been the one everyone leans on, this is your time to breathe, rest, and heal.

At the Don’t Call Me Strong retreat you will experience………..

✅ Ask for help without feeling bad

✅ Be in a room full of women who understand you

✅ Find the real you—the one that’s been hidden under pain and stress

✅ Spend 3 days resting, healing, talking, breathing, and letting go

We’ll have small group circles, healing sessions, body movement, and quiet time. You don’t have to be anyone but yourself.

Are you tired of being called “strong” when you feel tired and alone?

Is it hard to ask for help because you always do everything by yourself?

Are you exhausted from carrying everyone else's burdens and ignoring your own needs? 

Are you ashamed to ask for help yet you end up feeling resentful when others don’t ask if you need help?

OR are you intentionally caring for children,  a parent, or a spouse who is unable or unwilling to care for themselves?

You and I both know it’s time for a change…..

It’s time to stop being strong for others and start being true to yourself.

In this expert-led retreat, you will learn EXACTLY what you need to know in order to heal from self doubt, overcompensating, and pleasing people. 

It’s time to have healthier relationships and focus more on unresolved trauma. 

Join Montina Myers-Galloway, Founder of Myers-Galloway Counseling and creator of The Responsible One Newsletter © , for a life-changing retreat: “Don’t Call Me Strong” 

This retreat is your chance to reclaim your identity and heal.

This retreat is designed just for you

A Black woman who is done with the act of being strong and is ready to heal, take back your life, and find your true self.

After these POWERFUL sessions you won’t be the same…

Picture this—you’re walking out of the retreat with a sense of lightness you haven’t felt in years. The weight of “having it all together” is no longer suffocating you. Instead, you’ve learned to breathe easy (literally), having redefined what it means to be strong.

You’ll go home with more than just good memories—you’ll have:

🎯 Emotional Freedom: A crystal-clear understanding of your feelings and how to express them unapologetically.

🎯 Unshakable Boundaries: The confidence to say “no” when it serves you, without second-guessing yourself.

🎯 A Tribe of Support: Real, deep connections with women who get you. You’ll leave knowing you’re not walking this road alone.

🎯 Self-Care Without the Guilt: Practical, doable strategies that make taking care of you the new norm, not the exception.

This isn’t just about letting go of being the strong one—it’s about embracing a version of yourself that’s authentic, vulnerable, and fiercely protective of your own peace. You’ll return with tools that empower you to live differently—and on your terms.

And just like that……..

You’ve made one of THE most important decisions you can ever make for yourself…….You CHOSE YOU! 

And now you are on your way to FREEDOM! 

Now you’ll have the tools to break free from the cycle of parentification and unhealthy caregiving. 

Let’s talk about the Mental Health impact of Parentification 

There are an estimated 5.4 million children in the United States experiencing some form of parentification……. 

When at least 5.4 million children are in the role of a parent BEFORE they are physically, emotionally, or mentally ready you get 5.4 million children experiencing emotional neglect, relational trauma, and chronic stress. 

Those children grow up to be ADULTS… and Black women JUST LIKE YOU!

This HAS TO END!!

You deserve access to support and protection

✔️ Learn to build trust 

✔️ Genuinely connect with others 

✔️ Let go of anger

✔️ Learn to regulate your emotions 

✔️ Improve symptoms of Depression 

✔️ Lower symptoms of Anxiety and Worry

✔️ Develop healthier coping skills + behaviors

✔️ Get your needs met in healthy ways 

There are cases where Black women have felt emotionally responsible or have been physically responsible for someone else (a parent, a sibling, or other family member) since as early as 6 years old! 

Can you believe that?! I couldn’t….

The CDC Had Milestones. Your Childhood Had Responsibilities.

I had to take action…..

According to the CDC, the important developmental milestones that happen in children by the age of 5 are:

🔺 Playing with other children

🔺Learning to count to 10

🔺Having the ability to pay attention for 5-10 minutes

🔺Tell stories that include events

🔺Learning to write some letters in their name

Nowhere in this list does it say:

🚫 “Carry emotional burdens of others”

🚫 “Be a peacemaker for my parents”

🚫 “Be a second mom to my siblings”

🚫 “Become someone else’s confidant”

During this phase of early childhood, you probably had a lot of questions about the world around you and needed guidance and steps on how to solve problems. 

No matter the reason…

You didn’t get what you needed

The 'Strong One' Era Is Over—You’re Not Holding It All Anymore

Three days to put down the pressure, pick up your voice, and start living on your terms—with rest, truth, and boundaries that stick.

This retreat is a chance for Black women to set boundaries without guilt, lower stress with self-care, and find their true selves. Join us to embrace who you are, redefine your strength, and finally put yourself first.

Why This Retreat Is Right for You:

✅ Break Free from the chains of Parentification

Healing Sessions: Dive deep into workshops that confront the heavy toll of parentification on your mental health. This isn’t surface level stuff……we’re getting real about the impact and the path to healing. 

Real Conversations: Finally connect with and talk with women who truly get it. Share your story, hear theirs and realize you are not alone on this journey.

✅ Reclaim Your Identity and Power

Authentic Self-Care: It’s time to put yourself first, guilt free. Learn the no-nonsense strategies to set rock solid boundaries and boldly guard your mental space.  

Self-Discovery: Rediscover the passions and desires that have been buried for too long. This is about reconnecting with who you really are, beyond the expectations of others. 

✅ Build Strong Connections

Empowering Village: Meet and surround yourself with women who see you, hear you and stand with you. These aren’t just connections, they're the start of a community that’s got your back. 

Expert Insights: Get the wisdom and tools  from mental health professionals who know and understand the challenges of parentification and want to help you thrive. They are here to guide you, not just talk to you. 

“Montina, Well What’s in It for me?” 

Well I’m glad you asked! 

🎯 New Clarity and Perspective:

Leave with a clear empowered understanding of what true strength means, on your own terms. 

🎯 Real-World Tools:

Learn how to enforce boundaries, embrace radical self care, and protect your mental health like never before. 

🎯  Support Network:

Build connections with women who uplift, support, and understand you. This is your new tribe. 

Real Stories, Real Healing

  • "Her questions allow for transparency which aid us in understanding each other better.”

    “{My Therapist} inquisitions are unbiased and open ended which allows for honest and authentic communication between my mother and I. Her questions allow for transparency which aid us in understanding each other better.”

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • "She assisted and guided me through the process of deconstructing key areas of my life that were pivotal for my new growth.”

    “I found that Myers-Galloway Counseling, more specifically, our counselor, Montina, is just what my daughter and I were looking for. Most helpful to me was Montina's professional approach to our situation. She was patient and thoughtful as she assisted and guided me through the process of deconstructing key areas of my life that were pivotal for my new growth.”

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • "My happiness now comes from within"

    “Before I began therapy with Montina I was in a place in my life where I didn’t trust anyone and felt hopeless. This included family and friend relationships. I hadn’t forgiven my father for wrongdoings in the past and I wasn’t sure how I would forgive him. With the help of Montina, I am figuring out how to love again, how to trust again, but most importantly, how to trust myself and God again. It feels amazing. And my happiness now comes from within. She taught me how to stay in the moment and practical things I could do to keep my thoughts in the moment. I am so grateful for Montina and would recommend her to ANYONE!”

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This Isn’t a Getaway. It’s a Breakthrough.

VIP

$1997

✔️ 3 Full Days of Content

✔️ Pre-Event Intention Setting Call

✔️ Retreat Materials

✔️ Heal with Your Bestie for Less (15% off their Registration)

✔️ Light Breakfast + Lunch on all 3 Days

✔️ 20 Min Laser Clarity Coaching Session

✔️ Special VIP Only Healing Kit/Gift

✔️ Private VIP Only Dinner

General Admission

$1797

✔️ 3 Full Days of Content

✔️ Pre-Event Intention Setting Call

✔️ Retreat Materials

✔️ Heal with Your Bestie for Less (15% off their Registration)

✔️ Light Breakfast + Lunch on all 3 Days

💬 You might be thinking 💬

  • We hear you. And we also know you’ve spent more—emotionally, physically, spiritually—on everyone else.

    This retreat isn’t just a weekend away; it’s an investment in the version of you who’s no longer running on empty.
    You deserve an experience that nourishes your peace, not just your productivity.

    This 3-day experience has been uniquely designed to honor your healing without compromising its value. Because rest is not a luxury—it’s a necessity.

    Our philosophy is that Every Black Woman Should Invest In Herself.

  • We understand. But ask yourself: what’s the cost of continuing without a pause?
    This retreat is designed to disrupt burnout at the root and restore your capacity to lead, live, and love without depletion.
    One weekend of deep restoration now can shift everything about how you show up in your work, your relationships, and your body.

    You deserve this time—not because you worked hard enough, but because you’re human.

  • You don’t need experience to belong here.
    Whether you’ve never tried therapy or have no idea what “self-care” even means anymore—we’ll meet you exactly where you are.
    Everything we offer is designed to be culturally affirming, emotionally safe, and practically useful—whether you’re just starting your healing journey or deep in it.

  • That’s valid. Vulnerability takes courage.
    Don’t Call Me Strong is not about being put on the spot—it’s about being seen, respected, and supported without pressure.
    You’ll be surrounded by women who get it—and you’ll be in control of what, when, and how you share.
    Safety, consent, and care are at the heart of everything we do.

  • If you’ve ever felt invisible, overused, emotionally drained, or praised for being “strong” while quietly breaking—this retreat was made for you.

    Don’t Call Me Strong is for Black women who:

    • Neglect their own needs to care for others

    • Carry unspoken trauma and emotional weight

    • Struggle to rest without guilt

    • Say “yes” too often and “no” too softly

    • Are ready to choose themselves—finally

    If that sounds like you… trust that this space is yours.
    You don’t need to keep pushing through. Let this be your turning point.

🙋🏽‍♀️ You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers 🙋🏽‍♀️

  • Our next retreat will be held July 31 – August 2, 2025, at a serene, healing-centered venue near Charlotte, NC.
    We’re finalizing the perfect location and will share details in the coming weeks so you can plan your travel and lodging with ease.

  • Every retreat ticket includes:
    ✔️ 3 days of transformational sessions
    ✔️ A pre-event Intention Setting Call
    ✔️ Retreat workbook + materials
    ✔️ Access to sound baths, yoga, and wellness sessions
    ✔️ A safe, affirming sisterhood of Black women

    VIP tickets also include:
    ✨ Lunch on Days 1 + 2
    ✨ Private VIP Dinner (night before)
    ✨ Exclusive healing kit
    ✨ Private hotel room (lodging cost separate)
    ✨ Post-Retreat Group Support Call with Montina
    ✨ Guest speaker session + laser clarity session

    Bring a Bestie pricing is 20% off general admission is also available.

  • Each day begins at 8:30 a.m. with arrival + registration. Sessions begin at 9:00 a.m. and the day wraps around 4:45–5:00 p.m.
    You can expect a rhythm of intentional healing sessions, wellness practices, meaningful rest breaks, and nourishing meals (for VIPs). You’ll leave each day feeling lighter, clearer, and more connected—to yourself and your purpose.

  • We honor your healing journey—and we’re also firm about our policy.
    There are absolutely, positively NO REFUNDS under any circumstances.
    Your registration is non-cancellable. If you can’t attend, you may transfer your spot to another retreat within the same calendar year by notifying us in writing at least 10 days before the retreat. No-shows are not eligible for refunds or transfers.

  • Nope. No prerequisites. No pre-work. Just a willingness to show up as you are.
    Don’t Call Me Strong is for Black women ages 18+ who are ready to explore what healing looks like outside of the “strong one” identity. Whether you're healing from parentification, caregiving burnout, or years of over-responsibility, this space was created for you. Come as you are—with your full self, your full heart, and an open mind.

  • Transportation is not included, but we’ll provide all the location details and directions once the venue is announced.
    You’ll have the option to book discounted hotel accommodations nearby, and we’ll make that process simple and seamless.

  • Comfort is key. We recommend breathable, relaxed clothing you can move in—especially for wellness sessions like yoga or sound baths. Bring layers in case the space is cooler indoors. No need to dress up—just come as your whole self.

  • Absolutely not. This space was created to meet you where you are. Whether this is your first step into healing or you're years into your journey, Don’t Call Me Strong welcomes you with intention, care, and compassion. No performance. No perfection. Just presence.

Hey there, I’m Montina—licensed therapist, retreat facilitator, and a Black woman who knows what it’s like to carry too much for too long.

I created Don’t Call Me Strong for Black women who are tired of holding it all together and finally ready to rest, be real, and stop carrying the weight alone.

I’m Montina Myers-Galloway—licensed mental health counselor, qualified clinical supervisor, and the founder of Myers-Galloway Counseling. I’m also the voice behind The Responsible One newsletter and the visionary behind this retreat.

This experience was born from my mission to help Black women heal from the hidden wounds of parentification, over functioning, and over-responsibility. Too many of us are carrying negative core beliefs that say we have to earn rest, silence our needs, or prove our worth through doing. Don’t Call Me Strong was created to interrupt that cycle—and offer a space for deep release, honest reflection, and real healing.

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