NDIS Drum Therapy

Check out this short clip about the many scientific benefits of Drumming for those with ASD, stroke victims, traumatic brain injuries and movement challenges.

Drumming requires us to integrate and synchronise multiple limbs in order to produce the desired sonic outcome. This poses a unique problem to the entire brain which, when overcome, can lead to an astounding array of benefits. Just 90 minutes of drumming per week will lead to well-documented improvements in the brains of both neurotypical and neurodivergent people, including:

CONFIDENCE AND SELF-ESTEEM
RELAXATION AND STRESS RELIEF
RECEPTIVE SKILLS
COMMUNICATION
SENSE OF PURPOSE
IMPULSE CONTROL
EMOTIONAL REGULATION
ATTENTION AND CONCENTRATION
WORKING AND LONG-TERM MEMORY
TEAMWORK AND SOCIAL CONNECTION
GROSS MOTOR & COGNITIVE SKILLS
AN INTRODUCTION TO MUSIC AND RHYTHM

FOR THE STAFF

ONE ON ONE'S

The Research

Wood, L., Ivery, P., Donovan, R., & Lambin, E. (2013). "To the beat of a different drum": improving the social and mental wellbeing of at-risk young people through drumming. Journal of Public Mental Health, 12(2), 70-79. doi:10.1108/JPMH-092012-0002

Ho, P., Tsao, J. C., Bloch, L., & Zeltzer, L. K. (2011). The impact of group drumming on social-emotional behavior in low-income children. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2011, 1-14. doi:10.1093/ecam/neq072

Lin, J. W., & Mai, L. J. (2016). Impact of mindfulness meditation intervention on academic performance. Innovations in Education and Teaching International, 55(3), 366-375. doi:10.1080/14703297.2016.1231617

Luken, M., & Sammons, A. (2016). Systematic review of mindfulness practice for reducing job burnout. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 70(2), 7002250020p1-7002250020p10. doi:10.5014/ajot.2016.016956

Supporting studies

Rhythmic drumming offers a powerful outlet for stress relief, helping carer staff release tension and recharge. Its communal nature builds connection and teamwork, while the physical movement eases muscle tension and boosts energy. The repetitive rhythms can also promote mindfulness and relaxation, making drumming a holistic tool for resilience and well-being in demanding care roles.

Experience expert one-on-one drum classes with Gareth Cohen, our dedicated Drum Therapy Facilitator for NDIS participants. Each session is tailored to individual needs, using structured drumming techniques to support cognitive, motor, and emotional development. Explore rhythm and therapeutic growth in a supportive, skill-focused environment. Discover the power of NDIS music lessons on the Gold Coast today.

We offer four main programs tailored to meet your needs:

Staff relaxation, team building, and bonding Drum Circles.
NDIS participant group drum circles.
One-on-one drum classes for NDIS participants.
School holiday programs.

Utilising a range of interesting percussive instruments, this is perfect for those who don’t thrive in conventional educational settings, Gareth’s NDIS-friendly approach makes personal growth feel effortless and enjoyable. An engaging alternative to traditional learning. Using rhythmic games and percussion techniques, each 30–60 minute session boosts coordination, memory, trust and attention in a fun, laughter-filled atmosphere

PERCUSSION THERAPY