Terms and Conditions for Programs and Webinars

Operated by The Groundwork Project (ABN 18 142 711 883)

BACKGROUND

Melissa Allen is a registered Psychologist and Somatic Practitioner with extensive training in trauma-informed care and nervous system education. Her practice and the programs offered within The Groundwork Project, supports adults who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or dysregulated to build emotional resilience and nervous system awareness. Through her unique psychoeducational programs, Melissa helps participants understand their own stress responses and develop effective self-regulation skills grounded in polyvagal theory and somatic practices.

The Groundwork Project offers two flagship programs — Regulate and Restore — along with a 3-hour professional development presentation for mental health and allied health professionals. These offerings blend neuroscience, trauma education, and embodied learning, all delivered in a safe and inclusive environment. Melissa’s mission is to empower individuals to move from a state of internal chaos toward clarity, connection, and self-compassion.

  1. ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS

    By purchasing, enrolling in, or attending any Program or Webinar provided by The Groundwork Project, including “Regulate”, “Restore”, and the “3-Hour Presentation for Health Professionals”, you agree to the following Terms and Conditions. If you disagree, please do not enrol or attend.

  2. DEFINITIONS

    Program or Course: Any educational offering, workshop, webinar, or online module provided by The Groundwork Project.
    Participant: Any individual enrolled or attending a Program.
    Live Delivery: Real-time delivery of content either online or in-person.
    Evergreen: Pre-recorded program content available for on-demand access.
    Integration Session: An individual session offered as part of a program upgrade.
    Membership: Optional ongoing subscription access for alumni to receive extended support and community access.

  3. SCOPE OF SERVICES

    3.1 Our programs are psychoeducational in nature, combining principles of neuroscience, trauma-informed practice, and somatic techniques to help participants understand and manage their nervous system responses.

    3.2 Programs are designed to:
        ◦ Increase awareness of stress and trauma patterns;
        ◦ Provide body-based practices to support emotional regulation and resilience.
        ◦ Offer structured learning through live workshops, guided exercises, writing prompts, and reflective group discussion;
        ◦ Empower participants to build personal self-regulation toolkits.

    3.3 All programs are educational and coaching-based.

    3.4 They do not constitute therapy, clinical treatment, or mental health care.

    3.5 They do not form a therapeutic relationship.

    3.6 They are not a substitute for medical or psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    3.7 Participants are expected to take responsibility for themselves and seek professional support outside the Program as needed.

    3.8 If you have untreated complex trauma, we recommend contacting us before enrolling so we can help assess whether the Program is a safe and suitable option for you at this time.

    Dual Relationships are not entered into
    3.9 Melissa Allen does not engage in dual relationships that may compromise professional judgment or increase the risk of harm.

    3.10 Melissa Allen does not provide therapeutic services to individuals enrolled in the Program, and participation in the Program does not create a psychologist–client relationship.

  4. PARTICIPANT SUITABILITY & SCREENING

    4.1 To maintain group safety, ensure appropriate participation, and protect the emotional well-being of all attendees, we have set the following eligibility and screening criteria:
        a. You must be at least 18 years of age and have a good command of both written and spoken English.
        b. You must not be in acute crisis or experiencing active suicidal ideation, psychosis, or dissociative states.
        c. You must have reliable internet access and be comfortable using Zoom and other online platforms.
        d. You should be able to manage your emotional well-being independently or have an existing therapeutic support network in place.

    4.2 We may ask you to
        a. Complete a screening form to assess your readiness and suitability for the Program.
        b. Provide the name and contact details of an emergency contact and, in some cases, your treating psychologist or GP.

    4.3 We reserve the right to:
        a. Confirm that you are aware that the Program is not therapeutic or medical in nature.
        b. Decline participation if we assess that the Program is not suitable for your current circumstances.
        c. Consider seeking alternative support options where participation may cause harm or is inappropriate based on your individual needs.
        d. Terminate your participation without refund if you breach the behavioural guidelines, fail to disclose relevant information, or pose a risk to yourself or others.

    4.4 While the Program provides a wide range of tools, practices, and structured support to help you build emotional resilience and navigate your nervous system responses, participants are encouraged to engage with the materials in a self-aware and responsible manner. We strongly recommend that you also seek therapeutic or medical support outside the Program if you require deeper emotional processing or crisis-level care.

  5. PROGRAM DELIVERY & ACCESS

    5.1. Regulate Program:
        ▪ Duration: 6 weeks.
        ▪ Delivered either face-to-face or live online.
        ▪ Includes weekly modules taught live, a workbook (hardcopy or digital), and access to a private Facebook group (open only during the course and closed 30 days after the final module).
        ▪ May include future access to pre-recorded evergreen modules and optional live Q&A sessions

    5.2. Restore Program:
        ▪ Duration: 8 weeks.
        ▪ Delivered either face-to-face or live online.
        ▪ Includes weekly live sessions, a comprehensive workbook, private Facebook group access, music playlists, reflective writing prompts, and optional at-home practices.
        ▪ The Facebook group closes 30 days after the final module.
        ▪ Evergreen access to pre-recorded modules and optional live Q&As may be offered in future rounds

    5.3. 3-Hour Professional Webinar:
        ▪ Delivered in-person, live via Zoom or available as an evergreen self-paced module hosted on the Innovorise portal or other professional platforms.
        ▪ Includes visual slides, recorded content, and a Q&A session.
        ▪ Does not include a Facebook group or follow-up support.

    5.4. Delivery Notes:
        a. Participants will receive email communications before and during the Program to guide their experience.
        b. Worksheets and materials are provided on a weekly basis and are aligned with each module.
        c. Participation certificates are issued upon completion and submission of feedback forms.
        d. Access to evergreen content is lifetime unless otherwise advised.
        e. Access to Facebook groups, bonus Q&A recordings, and live community forums will be available for 30 days after the final module.
        f. Ongoing support or Q&A access is available through a paid Alumni membership program ($100/month, cancel anytime with 30 days’ notice).
        g. We reserve the right to modify or improve the format, content, delivery schedule, or hosting platform at any time to ensure the best learning experience.

  6. PAYMENT & PRICING

    6.1 To enrol in a Program, payment must be made via our approved payment platforms. All prices are listed in Australian Dollars (AUD) and include Goods and Services Tax (GST) where applicable.

    6.2 By purchasing a Program, you agree to the advertised price and any applicable payment terms. Upon completion of payment, you will receive a confirmation email and access instructions.

    6.3 We offer both upfront payment and structured payment plans for selected Programs:
        • Regulate: $660 or 3 x $220
        • Regulate + Integrate: $874.50 or 3 x $290
        • Restore: $1100 or 3 x $366
        • Restore + Reflect & Integrate: $1485 or 4 x $370
        • 3-Hour Webinar for Professionals: $330 (upfront only)

    6.4 Payments are processed securely via Stripe or PayPal through the Innovorise platform. By proceeding with payment, you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of both parties, in addition to our own.

    6.5 You are responsible for ensuring that your payment details are accurate and up-to-date. If your payment fails or is declined, your access to the Program may be suspended until payment is resolved.

    6.6 If you are on a payment plan and fail to make a scheduled payment, we reserve the right to suspend or terminate your participation without further notice. Access to content, live sessions, or any 1:1 component may be paused until all outstanding payments are received.

  7. REFUND, CANCELLATION & WITHDRAWAL POLICY

    7.1 We understand that unexpected changes may occur, and we strive to strike a balance between fairness and the integrity of our offerings. Refunds will be granted under the following conditions:
        a. A 100% refund will be provided if written notice of cancellation is received at least 21 days prior to the Program start date.
        b. A 50% refund will be provided if notice is received less than 21 days but more than 7 days prior to the Program start date.
        c. No refund will be provided if cancellation occurs within 7 days of the Program commencement.

    7.2 Refunds will not be issued in the following circumstances:
        a. Non-attendance of sessions (live or recorded).
        b. Failure to complete or book a 1:1 integration session within the designated timeframe.
        c. Change of mind or a shift in personal circumstances.

    7.3 Refunds may be considered on a case-by-case basis if:
        a. A participant is assessed as unsuitable for the Program after initial screening (full refund).
        b. A participant is unable to attend due to a documented medical emergency, illness, or other significant event beyond their control.

    7.4 Withdrawal Procedure: To request a cancellation or refund, participants must email melissa@thegroundworkproject.me with details of their request and any supporting documentation. Refunds, if approved, will be processed to the original payment method within 14 business days.

    7.5 Cooling-Off Period: A 48-hour cooling-off period applies to all online purchases made through our website. If you change your mind within 48 hours of enrolling and have not accessed any part of the Program, you may request a full refund.

    7.6 Program Changes or Cancellations by Us: We reserve the right to cancel or reschedule any Program or session. If this occurs, you will be offered either a full refund or the opportunity to transfer to another round or date of the Program. No compensation will be offered beyond the amount paid.

    7.7 Administrative Fees: We reserve the right to apply an administrative fee (e.g., 10% of the total fee) for cancellations initiated by the participant, except in cases of verified emergency or medical need. No administrative fees will be applied if we initiate the cancellation.

  8. DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY & RISK WAIVER

    8.1. Participants are responsible for:
        a. Assessing their physical and emotional readiness to engage with the Program content and practices.
        b. Seeking medical clearance if they have a history of physical injury, chronic illness, cardiovascular conditions, or other medical concerns.
        c. Notifying the facilitator in advance if they have any limitations that may affect participation.
        d. Making use of available grounding tools, breaks, and support mechanisms to self-regulate during sessions.

    8.2 You acknowledge and agree that:
        a. Physical practices may pose risks and should be undertaken with caution.
        b. Emotional content may be triggering.
        c. By participating, you voluntarily assume all risks related to your participation, including, but not limited to, physical movement practices, emotionally activating content, and technological failures.

    8.3 You release and discharge The Groundwork Project, Melissa Allen, and all associated personnel from any and all liability, claims, demands, or causes of action that may arise as a result of your participation, to the fullest extent permitted by law.

    8.4 You agree to pause or discontinue participation in any practice or module that causes undue emotional or physical discomfort and to seek external professional support if distress persists.

    8.5 Our Programs are not designed to treat or diagnose medical or psychological conditions.

    8.6 The practices and techniques presented are not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

    8.7 Technology Disclaimer
        8.7.1 You are responsible for ensuring that you have access to a stable internet connection, a suitable device, and familiarity with Zoom or other relevant platforms. We are not responsible for any inability to access the Program due to technical issues on your end.

        8.7.2 While we strive to provide uninterrupted access to live sessions and evergreen content, we are not liable for outages, technical malfunctions, or downtime affecting third-party platforms, including but not limited to Innovorise, Zoom, Facebook, or email servers. If a live session is disrupted due to technical failure on our part, we will take reasonable steps to reschedule or provide a recording.

  9. COMMUNITY CONDUCT & SAFETY

    9.1. Where group sessions, webinars, or private online communities (e.g., Facebook groups) are provided as part of a Program, participants agree to the following conduct guidelines to foster a respectful and emotionally safe learning environment:
        a. Confidentiality: All personal information, experiences, or disclosures shared by other participants must be treated as confidential and not disclosed outside the group.
        b. Respectful Engagement: Participants must listen actively and engage in discussions with kindness, inclusivity, and mutual respect. Disruptive, aggressive, or dismissive behaviour will not be tolerated.
        c. No Advice-Giving or Diagnosis: Participants must not attempt to provide therapeutic advice, diagnose others, or act as mental health professionals within the group context.
        d. No Trauma Processing: Group sessions and forums are not therapeutic containers. Participants should refrain from using group spaces to process unresolved trauma or share graphic content that may be activating to others.
        e. No Promotion or Solicitation: The group space is not to be used for promoting external services, businesses, or personal offers without explicit invitation from the facilitator.
        f. Inclusivity and Anti-Discrimination: Discriminatory comments or conduct based on race, gender, sexuality, religion, disability, or background will result in immediate removal.

    9.2. We reserve the right to remove any participant from group sessions, calls, or community platforms—without refund—if they breach these conduct guidelines or engage in behaviour that we deem unsafe, harmful, or contrary to the intended spirit of the Program.

    9.3. Our facilitators will take reasonable steps to maintain a safe group environment; however, participants are responsible for managing their own emotional responses and are encouraged to seek one-on-one support outside the Program if needed.

  10. PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY

    10.1 We respect your privacy and are committed to protecting your personal information. All personal data collected from you through enrolment, participation, or feedback is handled in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles under the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth).

    10.2 We collect only the information necessary to administer the Program and support your experience. This may include your name, contact details, health disclosures (voluntarily provided), and participation data. Your information will not be shared or sold to third parties. Confidential feedback is used internally for quality assurance purposes.

    10.3 Please be aware that participation in live group sessions or forums may involve the voluntary sharing of information. We cannot guarantee the confidentiality of comments made in a group setting. You are encouraged to share only what feels safe and appropriate.

    10.4 For further information or to access your personal information, please contact melissa@thegroundworkproject.me.

  11. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

    11.1 All content and materials provided through the Programs and Webinars — including but not limited to frameworks, program structures, methodologies, video and audio recordings, slides, handouts, digital files, written content, exercises, templates, visual aids, workbooks, and community materials — are the intellectual property of Melissa Allen / The Groundwork Project and are protected by Australian copyright and intellectual property law.

    11.2 You may:
        11.2.1 Access and use materials for your own personal, non-commercial use only, in accordance with these Terms.
        11.2.2 You may not:
            a. Share, reproduce, modify, repackage, upload, post, teach from, sublicense, distribute, publish, adapt, or otherwise exploit any part of the materials for commercial, educational, or professional use without prior written permission.
            b. Use any program content, frameworks, or materials to develop your own courses, services, or offerings without a separate commercial license agreement.
            c. Record, screen capture, or redistribute live sessions, audio, or visual content in any way.

    11.3 If you wish to use any material beyond the scope permitted under this agreement, please contact melissa@thegroundworkproject.me to discuss licensing options.

  12. INDIVIDUAL SESSIONS

    12.1 Some Program packages include optional or upgraded 1:1 integration sessions designed to support participants in reflecting on and applying the program content to their personal experiences. These are not therapeutic sessions but rather psychoeducational and reflective conversations.

    12.2 Booking Conditions:
        a. Sessions must be booked and completed within 30 days of the final module of the Program.
        b. It is the participant’s sole responsibility to contact the Virtual Assistant (VA) to arrange their session.
        c. The earlier you make contact, the more likely you will secure a session within the designated timeframe. We cannot guarantee last-minute availability.

    12.3 Cancellation and Rescheduling:
        a. If you miss a scheduled one-on-one session without providing prior notice (at least 48 hours), the session will be forfeited.
        b. One reschedule per session is permitted if sufficient notice is provided.

    12.4 Forfeiture:
        a. Sessions not booked within the 30-day post-program window are forfeited and will not be refunded, credited, or transferred.
        b. Unused sessions cannot be carried forward or used outside the agreed-upon timeframe.

    12.5 Session Boundaries:
        a. Sessions are not crisis support or clinical treatment.
        b. If distress arises, you may be referred to a suitable mental health professional.

  13. PROFESSIONAL USE

    13.1 The 3-hour presentation is designed as a professional development opportunity for allied health professionals, therapists, psychologists, social workers, counsellors, nurses, bodyworkers, and related practitioners. It provides psychoeducational insights into polyvagal theory and nervous system regulation to help inform professional understanding and trauma-informed practice.

    13.2 Important Conditions:
        13.2.1 This presentation is educational only. It does not constitute formal clinical supervision, therapeutic training, or endorsement of specific therapeutic techniques.
        13.2.2 You may not reproduce, deliver, distribute, or adapt any content, frameworks, or materials from the presentation in your own services, client work, or professional training without express written permission or a commercial licence.
        13.2.3 Any application of concepts shared must be within your scope of practice, in accordance with your profession’s code of ethics and regulatory guidelines.

    13.3 Accreditation and Acknowledgement:
        13.3.1 This presentation is not automatically accredited by any Continuing Professional Development (CPD) body unless explicitly stated.
        13.3.2 If you require a certificate of attendance for CPD or registration purposes, please notify us at the time of enrolment or after attending.

    13.4 Suggested Use:
    The Practitioner should discuss and integrate the new ideas or tools from the presentation with their own clinical supervisor or professional mentor before trying them with clients. This ensures ethical application and proper alignment with their profession’s scope of practice.

    13.5 We reserve the right to pursue legal action or deny future access to Programs if we discover unauthorised use of our professional education content.

  14. PARTICIPATION CERTIFICATES

    14.1 Certificates of participation may be issued to participants who:
        a. Attend and engage in the full Program duration (live or online).
        b. Complete all required modules and/or materials.
        c. Submit the end-of-program feedback form or assessment (if applicable).

    14.2 These certificates serve as recognition of your completion and participation. They do not constitute a formal qualification or professional certification unless explicitly stated.

    14.3 For professionals seeking CPD points, we recommend verifying with your relevant registration body whether participation in our Program meets the required learning criteria. Where possible, we can provide additional details such as program length, content summaries, and presenter qualifications upon request.

  15. TESTIMONIALS & FEEDBACK

    15.1 We welcome feedback, testimonials, and suggestions from participants to help us improve and promote our Programs.

    15.2 By submitting a testimonial (written, video, or audio) or publicly tagging our business in social media posts, you:
        a. Confirm that the content reflects your honest opinion and experience.
        b. Grant us a royalty-free, perpetual, worldwide licence to use your feedback, likeness, and first name (or social media handle) in promotional materials, on our website, and across social media platforms.

    15.3 You may withdraw permission for the use of your testimonial by emailing melissa@thegroundworkproject.me, and we will take reasonable steps to remove or cease further use within a reasonable timeframe.

    15.4 Constructive feedback provided confidentially will be used for internal quality assurance purposes. It will not be published without your express consent.

    15.5 As a registered psychologist, Melissa Allen does not use testimonials to promote regulated health services. Any testimonials provided by participants relate solely to the educational and non-clinical nature of the Programs

  16. NO GUARANTEE OF RESULTS

    16.1 While our Programs are designed to support nervous system education, personal growth, emotional resilience, and improved self-awareness, individual experiences and outcomes will vary.

    16.2 We do not guarantee specific results such as a reduction in anxiety, complete resolution of trauma symptoms, or improvement in health or professional performance.

    16.3 Your personal outcomes will depend on many factors, including your own level of engagement, readiness, life context, support network, and external circumstances.

    16.4 Our role is to provide educational content, tools, and guided support. It is your responsibility to apply what you learn in a manner that suits your circumstances and to seek professional guidance where necessary.

  17. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

    17.1 To the fullest extent permitted by law, we exclude all liability for any loss or damage (including physical, psychological, or financial) arising out of or in connection with your participation in any Program or Webinar.

    17.2 This includes (but is not limited to):
        a. Misapplication of techniques or concepts shared in the Program.
        b. Emotional triggers, distress, or reactivation of unresolved trauma.
        c. Injuries sustained during self-directed physical practices.
        d. Technology failures or access issues with third-party platforms.

    17.3 Our total aggregate liability is strictly limited to the amount paid by you for the relevant Program or Webinar. Under no circumstances will we be liable for indirect, incidental, punitive, or consequential damages or any loss of opportunity, revenue, or data.

    17.4 Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits any rights or remedies you may have under the Australian Consumer Law or other applicable legislation that cannot be lawfully excluded.

  18. CHANGES TO TERMS OR PROGRAMS

    18.1 We reserve the right to:
        a. Amend these terms with notice.
        b. Modify or improve content, delivery format, or supporting resources.
        c. Cancel or reschedule sessions due to unforeseen circumstances.

  19. DISPUTE RESOLUTION

    19.1 If a dispute arises between you and us in connection with any Program, Webinar, or these Terms and Conditions, both parties agree to the following resolution process:
        a. Initial Contact: You agree to contact us in writing at melissa@thegroundworkproject.me within 14 days of the issue arising, setting out the details of the dispute and any relevant supporting information.
        b. Informal Resolution: Both parties will use their best efforts to resolve the dispute promptly and in good faith through informal negotiation. We aim to respond within 7 business days.
        c. Mediation: If the dispute cannot be resolved informally within 30 days, both parties agree to attempt resolution through mediation conducted by an independent third party located in New South Wales, Australia. The costs of mediation will be shared equally between the parties.
        d. Legal Action: If mediation is unsuccessful, either party may commence legal proceedings. However, both parties agree not to commence court proceedings (except for urgent injunctive or equitable relief) until the dispute resolution steps above have been completed in good faith.

    19.2 This clause survives termination or completion of the Program and applies to all past and future disputes under these Terms.

  20. FORCE MAJEURE

    20.1 We are not liable for any failure or delay in the performance of our obligations under these Terms and Conditions due to events beyond our reasonable control. This includes, but is not limited to:
        a. Natural disasters or extreme weather events.
        b. Public health emergencies, pandemics, or outbreaks.
        c. Government restrictions or regulations.
        d. Power outages, internet failures, or platform downtime.
        e. Strikes, labour disputes, or civil unrest.
        f. Acts of war, terrorism, or other emergencies.

    20.2 If such a force majeure event occurs, we will use reasonable efforts to notify you and either:
        a. Reschedule the affected session(s).
        b. Transfer your enrolment to a future Program.
        c. Provide a partial refund where appropriate.

    You acknowledge that in such circumstances, our obligations are suspended for the duration of the event, and we shall not be held liable for any damages or losses caused as a result.

  21. GOVERNING LAW

    These terms are governed by the laws of the State of New South Wales, Australia.

    By ticking the acceptance box at the time of booking or enrolment, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms and Conditions.

    This agreement is binding upon acceptance and applies to all current and future interactions with The Groundwork Project, unless otherwise superseded by a written agreement.