I participated in two of these programs with the hope of personal growth and learning. I also paid…read more$1,950 for a third program. However, due to my pending Green Card status and financial difficulties, I informed the organizers several months in advance that I would not be able to attend the class. Unfortunately, my overall experience fell far short of my expectations.
In my opinion, some of the teachings were useful. However, a significant portion of the content closely resembled the teachings of well-known figures such as Tony Robbins, Dr. Holakouee, the Twelve-Step Program of Narcotics Anonymous, and other similar sources. At the same time, the fees charged to participants are extremely high, especially considering that many attendees are already facing financial, emotional, or psychological challenges.
From my perspective, a considerable amount of workshop time is dedicated to promoting and encouraging enrollment in future programs. In addition, due to the limited number of participants outside Iran, many students living in the United States are required to attend online sessions according to Iran or Armenia time zones, often staying awake throughout the night. This significantly reduces the effectiveness of the learning experience.
Regarding the Armenia program, my understanding was that international participants were expected to bear the costs of travel, accommodation, and related expenses because the program was organized in a way that combined participants from Iran to reach the required enrollment numbers. There was no practical option for holding the program independently in the United States. I was also told that participants should learn how to travel alone. However, I did not find this argument convincing, since many international participants have already traveled extensively around the world. The real issue was the financial burden and logistical challenges, not the ability to travel independently.
As for my personal situation, I clearly explained from the beginning that I was still waiting for my Green Card, and this was also reflected in my contract. I informed them that my participation in the Armenia program depended on receiving my Green Card and being legally able to travel. At that time, I was assured that the issue would likely be resolved before the program took place. Relying on those assurances, I signed the contract. Unfortunately, my Green Card has still not been issued, and I was therefore unable to attend the program.
Despite my difficult financial circumstances, I paid $1,950 for the program but was ultimately unable to use the service for which I had registered.
I was also a member of the A WOW WhatsApp group, for which I had paid as part of the program experience. After raising questions regarding financial matters and disputing the charge through my credit card company, I and several other participants were removed from the group.
Although I was not particularly satisfied with the level of activity or support provided in that group, removing members simply for raising financial concerns was disappointing.
My impression is that at the end of these workshops, when participants are emotionally affected by the program, physically exhausted, and sometimes sleep-deprived, significant efforts are made to encourage them to enroll in additional courses. In my opinion, important financial decisions should be made only after individuals have had sufficient time to reflect and evaluate their options carefully.
I also observed certain behaviors and interactions during the workshops that, in my view, did not align with what I would expect from a mental health professional.
I believe that ethical responsibility extends beyond simply respecting other people's property. In my view, when people invest their hope, trust, time, and money based on promises or expectations that do not materialize, real harm can occur, even if that harm cannot always be measured financially. Under such circumstances, I believe there is an ethical responsibility to provide compensation or a fair solution for those who have suffered losses.
This review reflects only my personal experience and opinion. Others may have had a different experience. However, I was not satisfied with the outcome of this program and felt that the value I received did not justify the amount I paid.
In the end, I leave this matter to conscience, justice, and time. I hope that everyone accepts responsibility for the consequences of their actions and decisions.
