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RESTORATIVE
RETREAT
 

group program

22nd - 24th May 2026

group program & respite

22nd - 26th May 2026

 

Sunshine Coast

A restorative respite for psychosis, mania

and non-ordinary states of consciousness

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about the RETREAT

The Voice Sanctuary is pleased to offer a bespoke retreat program for people who have experienced psychosis, mania or other “non-ordinary states of consciousness”.

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There are two options for participation to help cater for different budgets and funding capacities:

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Group Program 

One evening and two full days (Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th May), with participants going home in between sessions.

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Group Program and Respite Accommodation 

Full program plus four nights’ accommodation with supports, and an additional day of relaxation and integration (Friday 22nd – Tuesday 26th May)

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Learning outcomes 

These experiences can be a stigmatising and extremely challenging, deeply impacting a person’s life, worldview and confidence. Yet there can be gifts and positive outcomes from the experience too.

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This retreat provides a peaceful, trauma-informed space, facilitated and supported by people who have lived experience as well as mental health training. It is a unique opportunity to: 

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  • Learn about non-ordinary states of consciousness, with knowledge drawn from psychology, spirituality and indigenous cultures;

  • Enhance your self-awareness and develop a meaning and language which helps you to integrate your experiences;

  • Learn to balance your energy and regulate emotions;

  • Enhance your self-care practice;

  • Build social connections with peers;

  • Take a break from family, carers or other support networks

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Testimonial 
by Chris
Respite March 2024

"The respite was a significant milestone on my recovery journey. The joy, sensitivity, and integrity of the peer facilitators meant that it was the perfect combination of authentic relationships, skilled therapy, and a restful holiday.

 

There were challenges, which I was expertly supported through. Having the opportunity to tell my story with kindred spirits as witnesses was very meaningful, and the educational aspects were also important.

 

Thankyou Louisa for providing such a profound and needed service."

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 LOCATION & VENUE

The Sunshine Coast in Queensland is about 1.5 hours north of Brisbane, and is home to a wonderland of beaches, mountains and forests which provide a deeply therapeutic environment. 

 

Our day program is held at The House of Hope, a beautiful property in Woombye West on the Sunshine Coast hinterland. The property includes: 

 

  • Large home with verandas and comfortable living areas

  • Peaceful Park garden with spacious lawns and rainforest habitat

  • Firepit

  • Yoga deck

  • Swimming pool

  • Group rooms

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Respite Accommodation

If you choose to stay with us, you will be accommodated in the Sunshine Coast hinterland, close to the House of Hope and the nature-based tourist attractions. 

 

Details of the accommodation will be confirmed closer to the retreat, as it depends on numbers, but will include:

 

  • Your own private bedroom

  • A support person staying overnight

  • Meals

  • Transport to and from the venue

  • Pick-ups and drop-offs from the airport if needed

 

Please note that common areas like kitchens, bathrooms and living areas may be shared, depending on numbers.

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essential INFO

​DATES 

Day Program: Friday 22nd May – Sunday 24th May 2026

Day Program + Respite: Friday 22nd May –Tuesday 26th May 2026

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WHERE

The House of Hope, Woombye West, Sunshine Coast Hinterland, QLD 

 

GROUP SIZE

8-12 participants 

2-3 lived experience facilitators

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PRICES 

 

Day Program

$990/person 

Earlybird discount fee of $880 available

Concession discount fee of $770 available – limited places

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Day Program + Respite

$4500/person for 4 nights

 

Our prices work within NDIS guidelines and value the expertise of lived‑experience facilitation and a trauma‑informed, well-supported and structured program. We offer a high quality of care and content, along with comfortable venues and nutritious food.  

 

The respite may be funded privately (with payment plans available) or through NDIS if you are a participant.

applications & REFERALS

We have designed our program for people who have experienced psychosis, mania or non-ordinary states of consciousness, and who are currently stable in their mental health and are able to practice self-care. 

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To make sure all participants are suitable for this program and will gain benefit from it, our referral process is:  

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  1. Ensure you have read the Respite Guide 

  2. Complete of the online self-referral form 

  3. Attend an intake interview via zoom (online video meeting)

 

Spots are limited, so please book soon, or enquire if interested.

MEMBERSHIPS & ASSOCIATIONS
Australian Association of Social Work (AASW)
Australian Medical Association (AMA)
Queensland Lived Experience Workforce Network Inc. (QLEWN)
Mental Health Practitioner Network (MHPN)

 
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CONSULTING ROOMS 
The House of Hope
10 Redmonds Rd, Woombye West
Sunshi
ne Coast, Queensland

Available Monday - Thursday
 

 
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© 2025 created by Louisa D Pearce 

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