Meet Our Founder
Nadine’s story
Nadine Taylor, founder of Hope + Heal Retreats, established her organization in 2016 to encourage and support individuals ability to heal from trauma and reclaim their lives. As a nurse, advocate, survivor of horrific childhood abuse and domestic violence, and inspirational keynote speaker, Nadine’s work is firmly rooted in both her personal journey and evidence-based therapeutic practices.
Growing up in a violent home, Nadine endured the profound pain of childhood abuse, neglect, and betrayal by those who were meant to love and protect her. Despite these early traumas, she never imagined she would later find herself in an abusive and physically violent relationship as an adult.
In 2010, Nadine survived a life-threatening attack that left her with permanent injuries. Leaving the abusive relationship was meant to bring her freedom, but instead, she faced a new nightmare of stalking, fear, and anxiety. Years of psychological and physical abuse culminated in a diagnosis of Complex PTSD, leaving her in a constant state of hypervigilance. Nadine was trapped in survival mode, overwhelmed and isolated, unable to find a way forward.
Her path to recovery began when she discovered a meditation group. Through mindfulness and inner exploration, she noticed profound changes in how she responded to the chaos around her. This initial breakthrough led her to explore scientifically proven practices such as meditation retreats, yoga, art therapy, and women’s circles, all of which became essential tools in her healing journey.
As Nadine delved deeper into the neuroscience of trauma, she gained a scientific understanding of how trauma affects the brain and body. Recognizing her triggers and symptoms was empowering, allowing her to reclaim control of her life. By integrating trauma-informed practices, she began to rewire her mind and body, transforming her pain into a source of strength and resilience. These methods not only fostered continuous personal growth but also awakened her intuition, equipping her with practical strategies to navigate life’s challenges.
This transformation became the foundation of Hope + Heal Retreats. The retreat programs are grounded in neuroscience and are designed to provide participants with trauma-informed tools and scientifically proven methods for healing. Nadine’s approach integrates evidence-based techniques with compassionate guidance, creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can address trauma, rebuild resilience, and foster personal growth.
Nadine’s personal experiences highlight the generational and cyclical nature of trauma, fuelling her commitment to breaking these patterns and helping others do the same. Through Hope + Heal Retreats, she offers survivors the opportunity to transform their pain into strength, equipping them with the tools to heal and thrive.
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Today, Nadine continues to channel her expertise and lived experience into empowering others. Her work not only inspires hope and healing but also delivers lasting empowerment, enabling individuals to break free from the chains of trauma and reclaim their lives with confidence and purpose.
