Therapeutic Rhythm for Clinicians: Dandenong Ranges

This immersive professional development workshop invites clinicians and helping professionals to experience therapeutic rhythm as both a wellbeing practice and a practical modality for supporting connection, regulation and group process.

Designed for counsellors, psychotherapists, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers, nurses, AOD and mental health practitioners, youth workers, community facilitators and allied health professionals, the day offers a rare opportunity to explore the therapeutic applications of rhythm through direct experience rather than theory alone.

Across a two-hour facilitated rhythm journey, participants will engage in a carefully sequenced series of evidence-informed, trauma-informed rhythm processes that cultivate nervous system regulation, embodied awareness, communication, listening, creativity and interpersonal connection. Rather than focusing on musical performance, the workshop explores how rhythm can become a practical therapeutic resource within clinical and community settings.

Following a shared lunch, counsellor Julie Santall will facilitate an integration discussion, creating space to reflect on the therapeutic principles experienced throughout the morning and consider how these approaches may complement existing clinical practice across diverse populations.

Nestled on the edge of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, the peaceful studio setting provides a quiet, restorative environment that supports reflection, presence and deep listening throughout the day.

The workshop concludes with a collaborative community drumming experience that brings together the day's learning through shared music-making and connection.

No musical experience is required—only curiosity, openness and a willingness to participate.

About the Facilitators

Djulz Chambers

Djulz Chambers is an Australian therapeutic rhythm facilitator, educator and Djembe practitioner with over 20 years' experience delivering rhythm-based programs across education, AOD, mental health and community settings. Following immersive training with traditional communities in Northern Burkina Faso, she has dedicated her career to translating West African percussion traditions into trauma-informed, evidence-informed practices that foster nervous system regulation, social connection and wellbeing. Djulz currently facilitates therapeutic rhythm programs with adults and young people through Uniting Vic.Tas' Alcohol and Other Drugs and Mental Health services and the Australian Children's Music Foundation (ACMF), while also delivering facilitator training nationally through African Drumming. She specialises in experiential group processes that support therapeutic, educational and community practice.

Julie Ann Santall

Julie Ann Santall is a holistic counsellor, Drug and Alcohol Counsellor, Clinical Hypnotherapist and former Division 1 Registered Nurse with more than 35 years' experience across trauma, addiction and psychosocial care. Her work is grounded in a trauma-informed understanding of the nervous system, attachment and the body's innate capacity for healing. Julie brings a compassionate, relationship-centred approach to supporting people in reconnecting with themselves, others and their communities, believing that healing begins when we recognise that we are not broken—we are hurting. For more information about Julie's services please visit ReFocus Counselling.