Question 1

What types of retreats are offered?

Accepted Answer

At Yajilarra, we provide a range of retreat options and can also create a specific program for group bookings.

1. EMDR Trauma Healing Retreat: This retreat is specifically designed for individuals looking to heal from trauma. Our licensed clinical counsellors and psychotherapist's use a combination of EMDR, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Eco Therapy, and Mindfulness to help participants process and overcome their trauma.

2. Wellbeing and Rejuvenation Retreat: This program focuses on holistic wellness and includes a mix of gentle  rejuvenating options like yin yoga, morning walks on the beach,  mindfulness and self-awareness workshops. It uses a mix of therapies such as EMDR, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and Eco Therapy to gently release old burdens and enhance overall health and well-being. Ideal for those wanting peace and support to heal their mind, body and soul. Connect to their authentic self and find a renewed inspiration for their lives.

3.  Corporate Team Building and Leadership Retreat: This retreat supports and promotes personal and professional growth. Activities and therapies include EMDR, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Eco Therapy, and Mindfulness, all aimed at developing leadership skills, fostering team building, and promoting personal development.  Each program is crafted to provide a supportive, nurturing environment, building team cohesion and trust. While also allowing you to safely focus and develop your own personal and professional development journey.

For more information or to book a retreat, please visit our Get in Touch Page.

Question 2

Which Retreat is the right one for me?

Accepted Answer

We provide 3 distinct types of retreats and all are designed ot be highly effective supporting you to great insight, healing and empowerment:

Intensive Trauma Healing, Wellbeing and Rejuvenation and Team Building and Leadership.

Would you like to clear old trauma and negative beliefs which has been causing you suffering? And learn how to live a happier life?

Or

Do you want to connect deeply to yourself focusing on overall Wellbeing and Rejuvenation, supported with a variety of gentle models of therapy and self-care activities?

Or

Perhaps you want to learn how you show up in the world in relationships, at home, with friends and at work? Learn how you behave in teams or as a leader? Experience deep personal growth and self reflection through workshops, equine assisted psychotherapy, Eco therapy and psycho education?

Each retreat is carefully designed to ensure a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment. To determine the most suitable retreat for you, please consult with our intake team for tailored advice.

Additionally, we design bespoke retreats for team-building and corporate groups, accommodating their specific needs and budgets.

Question 3

Is the trauma healing retreat suitable for me?

Accepted Answer

We start with an initial intake process to thoroughly assess an individual's readiness for this retreat. Throughout this process, a registered clinical counsellor will engage in a detailed assessment to understand your unique needs, concerns, and therapy goals.

If someone isn’t quite ready to join the retreat, we offer individual support designed to help prepare them for future participation. This may include one-on-one counselling sessions, resources, or specific therapeutic exercises to build resilience and confidence.

Our ultimate goal is to ensure that every participant feels safe, understood, and fully supported on their personal healing journey.

Question 4

What other therapies are included?

Accepted Answer

Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP)

Eco-Therapy (individual practice + group reflection)

Mindfulness & Somatic Practices

Group Integration Circles

Daily Movement (your choice of yoga, weights, beach walk/run and ocean swim)

You may opt out of eco-therapy or EAP sessions if rest is needed. EMDR sessions are core and required.

Question 5

In the Trauma Retreat - what is the structure of the EMDR sessions?

Accepted Answer

EMDR is delivered in a group-based intensive format, facilitated by a registered clinical counsellor with advanced EMDR training.

Each participant receives 4 hours of EMDR therapy per day, using a structured approach that allows you to process trauma without sharing personal details with the group.

It is safe and strictly confidential, however you do not share the event or memory you are clearing to the group. You will plan what you are will clear with the Clinical Counsellor before the retreat.

EMDR is an evidence-based model of therapy and is recommended by the World Health Organisation for healing PTSD. Group EMDR is just as effective as individual EMDR, however it has the added benefit of shared support from participants.

Question 6

Do I need to be in therapy before I come?

Accepted Answer

No. Many participants are already in therapy, but it’s not a requirement. As long as you're psychologically stable and ready to engage in this kind of work, you’re welcome to apply.

Question 7

How many participants are there in each Retreat?

Accepted Answer

There are only six participants per retreat, allowing for focused, individualised care and a calm, supportive group experience.

Question 8

Are the Retreats trauma-informed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every aspect of each of the retreats is designed around trauma-informed principles: safety, choice, collaboration, empowerment, and trust.

Our facilitators are experienced in working with trauma and regulating nervous systems gently and respectfully.

Question 9

Is there group therapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes — but not in the traditional way.

Group EMDR involves individual trauma processing in a group setting, with no requirement to share the event or memory you are clearing. You would have already shared this in private with the Clinical Counsellor facilitating the retreat.

All other groups such as any mindfulness, self-awareness or reflection group sharing is completely voluntary. You’ll never be asked to speak beyond your comfort level.

Question 10

What is the accommodation like?

Accepted Answer

Choose a private or shared room

Shared bathrooms only

All accommodation and inside the house areas are quiet zones to support self reflection and nervous system regulation

Meals and social connection happen in shared spaces, such as the dining area, the swimming pool or firepit.

[Read more on the Accommodation page]

Question 11

Can I stay off-site?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You’re welcome to stay in your own accommodation for a $300 discount of the retreat price.

You must arrive by 7:30am each day for breakfast and remain on-site until after dinner. All nutritious meals are still provided at the retreat.

Question 12

Are any rebates available?

Accepted Answer

No Medicare rebates are available

We do accept:

SIRA insurance clients (e.g. WorkCover, motor vehicle claims)

NDIS participants (self- or plan-managed)

Some private health funds, depending on your coverage

We’re happy to assist with documentation if needed.

Question 13

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Retreat pricing varies by room choice. All pricing includes therapy, meals, accommodation, and activities.
 [Visit the Registration & Pricing page]

Question 14

What if I’m not accepted in the Trauma Healing Retreat?

Accepted Answer

If the program isn’t appropriate for your current needs, we’ll guide you toward alternative supports and invite you to apply for a future intake when ready.

Question 15

What happens after the retreat?

Accepted Answer

You’ll leave with a weight lifted off your psyche, practical life tools, emotional clarity, and new grounding strategies.

If you’d like continued support, the retreat facilitator is available for private sessions post-retreat, either online or in-person at Bondi Junction (at an additional cost).

We can also recommend other local or ongoing therapy options if needed.

Question 16

Still have questions?

Accepted Answer

We’re here to support you.

👉 [Contact us] to get in touch for a chat

Lorna Saxbee Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice

Frequently asked questions