THE SANCTUARY
IN THE FOREST
New dates coming soon!
Sunshine Coast
A restorative respite for psychosis, mania
and non-ordinary states of consciousness
about the RESPITE
The Voice Sanctuary is pleased to offer a bespoke respite program for people who have experienced psychosis, mania or other “non-ordinary states of consciousness”.
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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 respite 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;
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Enhance your self-awareness and develop a meaning and language which helps you to integrate your experiences;
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Learn to balance your energy and regulate emotions;
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Enhance your self-care practice;
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Build social connections with peers;
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Take a break from family, carers or other support networks
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about the ACCOMODATION
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 respite is held at a stunning 400-acre property called Bellthorpe Stays (see https://www.bellstays.com.au/ ), near Maleny on the Sunshine Coast hinterland. Surrounded by rainforest and completely private, the property includes:
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Established walking tracks
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A running creek with waterfalls and waterholes
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Firepit
You will have your own private bedroom within a 2-bedroom self-contained cabin, shared with another person. Each cabin has these features:
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Reverse cycle air conditioning and ceiling fans.
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Slow combustion log fireplaces
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Separate lounge room
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Linen provided
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Bathroom and laundry
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Kitchen
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Gas BBQ and outdoor setting
about the PROGRAM
The respite is held in two parts:
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MAIN PROGRAM: Three nights of accommodation with 1:2 support ratios (24/7) and a capacity-building program.
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OPTIONAL RESPITE DAY: Fourth optional night available without a structured program and with a 1:2 support ratio (24/7).
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In a small group of up to 6 participants, this respite allows time for individual rest-and-replenishment, and group activities of sharing, learning and connection.
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Each respite has a bespoke itinerary to suit the needs and preferences of our participants, broadly including:
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Group connection time with discussion, teaching and activities
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Private rest and reflection time
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Individual mentoring sessions with our facilitators/guides
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Shared meals
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Campfire chats
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Music/sound therapy
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Yoga and/or other movement therapy
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Art and craft-making
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Story-telling
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Nature immersions (e.g. rainforest walks, swimming)
essential INFO
​DATES
Main program: three nights (dates to be announced soon)
Optional extra night
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WHERE
Peaceful cabin accommodation on a stunning 400-acre property in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
SMALL GROUPS
4-6 participants and 2-3
lived experience facilitators
SUPPORT
Mix of Individual mentoring, private time and group program. Support ratios of 1:2 (24/7)
PRICES
3 nights: TBA
4 nights: TBA
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FUNDING ​
This respite may be funded through NDIS as either Short Term Accommodation Respite (STA), or a mix of core and capacity-building funding.
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Private clients are welcome too, and payment plans are available.
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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Ensure you have read the Respite Guide
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Complete of the online self-referral form
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Attend an intake interview via zoom (online video meeting)
Spots are limited, so please book soon, or enquire if interested.