This gentle, nurturing workshop offers bereaved parents and families a safe space to connect, express and regulate through the healing power of music. Grounded in Dr Bruce Perry's Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT), the session recognises that grief lives not only in our minds but in our bodies, and that rhythm and music can help us find moments of calm, connection and expression when words alone are not enough.

The Neurosequential Model teaches us that healing happens in sequence: we must first feel safe and regulated in our bodies before we can connect with others and process our experiences. This workshop honours that journey.

What to Expect

Therapeutic Drumming for Self-Regulation: Begin with rhythmic drumming activities designed to ground, calm and regulate the nervous system. No musical experience is needed—just a willingness to explore rhythm at your own pace.

Songwriting and Creative Expression: Engage in gentle songwriting activities that offer an opportunity to honour your baby and your journey. This may include contributing words, phrases or ideas to a collaborative piece, or simply listening and reflecting.

Singing and Sound: Experience the soothing and connecting power of singing together. Participation is always optional—listening is equally welcome.

Talking Circles for Reflection and Discussion: Open andClose with a supported talking circle, creating space for discussion, reflection and connection with others who understand your experience.

This workshop is designed to meet you where you are. Whether you wish to participate fully or simply be present, you are welcome exactly as you are.

About Your Facilitator

Sarah Dunston

Registered Music Therapist | Trauma-Informed Practitioner | MPhil Candidate (Griffith University)

Sarah is a Brisbane-based Registered Music Therapist with over a decade of experience in trauma-informed practice. She specialises in using music as a pathway to healing, self-regulation and connection for individuals and communities who have experienced loss, trauma and adversity.

Sarah brings both professional expertise and personal understanding to this work. As a member of the Red Nose community who lost her own baby in 2023, she deeply understands the grief journey and the profound need for safe, supported spaces where bereaved parents can be held with compassion.

Her professional background includes working with children and families affected by abuse, neglect and family violence through organisations including Act for Kids, where she developed and facilitated music therapy programs in therapeutic early childhood settings. She has also worked extensively in special education, community mental health, and disability services across the lifespan.

Sarah is currently completing a Master of Philosophy at Griffith University's Queensland Conservatorium, researching trauma-informed music therapy approaches in early childhood education. She is the creator of the CARRM program (Connection and Regulation using Rhythmic Play and Music) and leads the Creative Transitions music project for women and children transitioning out of homelessness due to domestic and family violence.

Sarah's work is grounded in the belief that music offers a unique pathway to healing—one that can reach us when words cannot, and help us feel safe, seen and valued.

Contact: sarah@melodica.com.au | melodica.com.au