THERAPALS | rhythmmusictherapy

Compassionate, inclusive dog training specialising in supporting individuals with disabilities, trauma, and mental health needs.

What we do

At Therapals, our dog training is for everyone ~ whether you’re after standard support or a more tailored approach. We offer inclusive, one-on-one sessions designed to build a stronger, more connected relationship between you and your dog. Our training is flexible and personalised, with a deep understanding of diverse learning styles. While we specialise in working with neurodivergent individuals, people with disabilities, and those with lived experience of trauma, our services are open to all. We focus on teamwork, helping you and your dog stay present, engaged, and in tune with each other. Every dog-human pair is unique, and we honour that by customising each session to support your shared journey.

We are based in Brisbane's Inner North, and we have a 30 km radius for home visits. Please complete the Contact Form below for more information on rates and travel fees.

What's in it for you (the human!)

Dog training can be an incredibly rewarding journey, and along the way, it may also bring up unexpected emotions, such as moments of self-reflection, vulnerability, or feelings like guilt, frustration, or low confidence. These emotions are a natural part of learning and growing together.

This is where we come in.

Compassionate, practical dog training tailored to you and your dog.
Initial assessment to understand your learning style, goals, and the relationship you want to build.
Support in interpreting your dog’s behaviour and communication cues.
Step-by-step strategies for calm, consistent, and effective training.
Whole-household support to ensure everyone is on the same page.
One-on-one, home-based sessions for comfort and accessibility.

What's in it for your dog

Just like you, your dog is on a journey of learning, growth, and connection. Our training approach is based on the following:

Positive reinforcement and force-free methods ensure that your dog learns in a way that feels safe, supportive, and enjoyable.
Supporting your dog's emotional wellbeing, confidence, and communication.
Working with you to understand their unique personality, needs, and the way they learn best ~ we help your dog feel safe, seen, and empowered.

When you’re in sync - working together with consistency, patience, and mutual understanding - your dog is more likely to thrive. Training becomes less about ‘obedience’ and more about building a trusting, respectful partnership that supports your dog’s ability to navigate the world calmly and confidently.

Services Available

1:1 Sessions

Once-off sessions offering individualised support and training to you and your dog.

1:1 Training Packages

Options for 4 and 8 week programs designed to build your confidence working with your dog both at home and in other environments.

Group Training Classes

6 week group programs (*first week online), with the aim of fostering positive social connections between puppies/dogs.

The Story Behind Therapals

Where two worlds meet.

Combining her background in human therapy with her passion and experience in dog behaviour and training, Kassie Sofia—Director of Rhythm Music Therapy—has launched a new, exclusive service for people and their four-legged companions.

With over 12 years of experience as a Registered Music Therapist (RMT), Kassie has worked extensively with vulnerable populations and NDIS participants. She brings a strong foundation in inclusive, trauma-informed practice, always adapting to meet the individual needs of each person she supports. Her background in education has further shaped her understanding of how vital it is to honour different learning styles in order to create meaningful, lasting change.

Kassie’s love for animals began in childhood, where she formed close bonds with dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has experienced firsthand the profound impact animals can have on a person’s well-being. Her relationship with Monte, her Golden Retriever and qualified therapy dog, was particularly remarkable. Through their connection, Kassie deepened her understanding of the emotional and therapeutic power of human–animal relationships, witnessing the way Monte fostered growth, confidence, and emotional connection in those he supported through therapy.

After returning to study a Cert IV in Animal Behaviour & Training (Delta Institute) in 2024, now, she’s bringing her two passions together ~ supporting people and working with dogs ~ through Therapals, a service offering personalised, force-free dog training with a therapeutic foundation.

Kassie believes that by better understanding yourself and your own needs—while learning to understand your best friend—you create a truly unique and beautiful bond for life.

Qualifications & Accreditations

Master of Music Therapy (2013)
Diploma in Secondary Education
Bachelor of Music
Certificate IV in Animal Behaviour & Training (In Progress)
Member of the Australian Music Therapy Association (Member no: 577)
Student Member of the Australian Pet Dog Owners (APDT) Association (Member no: 20057)