Learn About Us

Bethesda Workshops

Bethesda's Purpose

Bethesda Workshops exists to provide Christ-centered, clinically excellent care for individuals, couples, and families impacted by compulsive sexual behavior and betrayal trauma. We foster spiritual, emotional, and relational restoration through clinical programs grounded in biblical truth. We are also committed to renewing and equipping those who serve—counselors, pastors, coaches, and helpers—so they can faithfully support the healing journey of others with grace, wisdom, and hope.

The Mission of Bethesda

Bethesda Workshops exists to provide Christ-centered, clinically excellent care for individuals, couples, and families impacted by compulsive sexual behavior and betrayal trauma. We foster spiritual, emotional, and relational restoration through clinical programs grounded in biblical truth.

The Heart of Bethesda

Bethesda Workshops combines grace-based clinical excellence with a Christian worldview. All are welcome, and we focus on a relationship with God over religious rules, gently addressing the spiritual wounds many have experienced.

The Distinction of Bethesda

Bethesda offers one of the most unique, clinically intensive, Christian-based workshop models in the country, including the only intensive workshop for sexually acting-out teens. Our programs are facilitated solely by licensed clinicians, most of whom are CSATs, and we provide all lodging and meals in a convenient four-day structure.

The Vision

We envision restored lives and relationships, and sexually whole communities, all grounded in vital fellowship with God and others. We aim to renew and equip those who serve—helpers, counselors, pastors, and coaches—so they can faithfully support the healing journey of others with grace, wisdom, and hope.

The Inspiration of Bethesda

We provide Christ-centered, clinically excellent care that leads to spiritual, emotional, and relational restoration for those impacted by sexual addiction and betrayal trauma.

The Ministry of Bethesda

Bethesda Workshops combines grace-based clinical excellence with a Christian worldview. All are welcome, and we focus on a relationship with God over religious rules, gently addressing the spiritual wounds many have experienced.

The Mission of Bethesda

Bethesda Timeline

1995

Marnie Ferree completed her master’s and joined Woodmont Hills Counseling Center.

1997

Launched “Healing for Women,” the first gender-specific program for female sex and love addicts.

2001

Bethesda Workshops formed, expanding to serve men and couples.

2002-2005

Ministry thrived; Bethesda became a self-supporting parachurch organization.

2008

Workshops began being held in a church space, a financially sustainable model.

2011

Became an independent nonprofit organization with a board of directors..

2012

Gained 501(c)(3) status.

2015

Visioning retreat defined the need for a permanent space. Received a $250,000 challenge gift.

2016

Moved into 1035 Acorn Drive with help from an angel investor. Renovations were completed by Christmas.

2017-2018

Workshops launched in the new building, including the first intensive for teen girls and parents.

BETHESDA's FOCUS

Christian-Based Focus

Bethesda Workshops offers grace-based healing rooted in a Christian worldview. Our approach welcomes all backgrounds and avoids rules-based religion in favor of relationships. Many who come to us carry deep spiritual shame or wounds. We specialize in gently addressing that pain and helping participants reconnect with a loving God.
Participants from all faith backgrounds—or none at all—have found Bethesda a safe and welcoming space.

TESTIMONIALS

Restored Lives

The beauty of Bethesda

What We Offer

Clinical Intensive Workshops

  • Male and female sex addicts
  • Partners of sex addicts
  • Couples affected by addiction
  • Teens who are struggling with compulsive sexual behavior

Speaking Ministry

  • Healthy sexuality and families
  • Sexual addiction and abuse
  • Faith-based response to sexual brokenness
  • Helping churches address sexual misconduct

Training for Clinicians

  • Sexual addiction and trauma education
  • Clinical frameworks for faith-informed practice

Church Education

  • Pornography awareness
  • Ministry team support and training

Crisis Consulting

  • Church and organization leadership support in cases of sexual misconduct

Resources

  • Books, curriculum, articles, and referrals
  • Online store and resource recommendations
THE DISTINCTION OF BETHESDA

What Sets Us Apart

Christian-based treatment (non-denominational, grace-based)

Similar intensive workshops for sex addicts, partners, and couples

Facilitated solely by licensed clinicians; majority are CSATs

Unique workshop for sexually acting-out teens and their parents

4-day intensive format provides a strong start or reset for healing

Multiple clinicians offer a variety of therapeutic styles and expertise.

The fee includes lodging and meals.

Payment plans and limited scholarships available

THE INSPIRATION OF BETHESDA

Pool of Bethesda

The name “Bethesda” comes from John 5:1-9, where Jesus asks a paralyzed man at the pool, “Do you want to get well?” That question sits at the center of everything we do.

In a world that often condemns without offering help, Bethesda Workshops provides healing through grace, truth, and proven clinical practice. We are a place where the broken can begin to walk again.

Our Space

Since 2008, Bethesda Workshops have operated from donated space at Woodmont Hills Church. By 2015, we knew we needed our own home.

An alum couple’s $250,000 challenge gift launched the journey. After months of searching, we discovered 1035 Acorn Drive—a space that perfectly matched our needs. Though initially a leap of faith, an angel investor stepped forward to purchase the property and personally finance it.

Today, our building offers:

  • A large teaching room
  • Multiple therapy group spaces
  • Offices for our staff
  • Two separate, dedicated entrances for workshop and administrative functions
  • A warehouse-turned-dining and relaxation area

Our goal now is to pay off our building debt early. Will you help us?