Therapeutic Rhythm for Clinicians: Mornington Peninsula

Therapeutic Rhythm for Clinicians

An Integrative, Trauma-Informed Experiential Workshop

Join us for a unique four-hour professional development experience exploring how therapeutic rhythm can support regulation, relationship, communication and wellbeing within clinical, community and therapeutic practice.

Created for counsellors, occupational therapists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, AOD and mental health practitioners, youth workers and allied health professionals, this experiential workshop invites participants to explore rhythm as a practical, embodied resource that can complement existing therapeutic approaches.

The session begins with a two-hour facilitated therapeutic rhythm experience, guiding participants through a progression of trauma-informed rhythm processes that support nervous system regulation, group connection, emotional expression, mindful awareness and non-verbal communication. No musical experience is required—the emphasis is on participation and experience rather than performance.

Following a shared lunch, Sarah Munn, Occupational Therapist, Equine Therapist and Clinical Leader, will lead an integration discussion exploring trauma-informed and affirming practice, and what these approaches can mean in both personal and professional contexts. Drawing on her extensive clinical experience and work in animal-assisted therapy, Sarah will support participants to reflect on how we create environments that foster safety, agency, choice, connection and participation. The farm setting and resident animals may also become part of this reflective process.

Held at Gadara Farm on the Mornington Peninsula, the workshop brings rhythm, nature, animals and human connection together in a grounded therapeutic environment.

We conclude with a shared group drumming experience, bringing the day together through creativity, connection and collective rhythm.

No musical experience is necessary, just an open mind and a willingness to explore new possibilities for therapeutic practice.

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.

Sarah Munn

Sarah Munn is an Occupational Therapist and Clinical Leader with over 35 years' experience working across mental health, developmental, learning and paediatric settings in the UK and Australia. She is the Founder and Managing Director of Barefoot Therapists, where she continues to work with children and families while providing professional development, coaching and supervision to practitioners. Sarah also teaches Animal Assisted Therapy at La Trobe University and specialises in Equine Assisted Occupational Therapy, bringing a wealth of clinical and nature-based therapeutic experience to her work. For more information about Sarah's work, please visit the Barefoot Therapists website.