Complaints

The complaint text that is displayed might not represent all complaints filed with BBB. Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business.

• Initial Complaint

  Date:03/25/2025

  Type:Product Issues
  Status:

  AnsweredMore info

  Complaint statuses

  Resolved:

  The complainant verified the issue was resolved to their satisfaction.

  Unresolved:

  The business responded to the dispute but failed to make a good faith effort to resolve it.

  Answered:

  The business addressed the issues within the complaint, but the consumer either a) did not accept the response, OR b) did not notify BBB as to their satisfaction.

  Unanswered:

  The business failed to respond to the dispute.

  Unpursuable:

  BBB is unable to locate the business.

  am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the sound therapy training program, intended to span six Sundays from January to April. Unfortunately, the training has not met expectations, and I am requesting a refund due to the lack of content, support, and fulfillment of the agreed-upon terms.The first session was postponed for reasons "beyond Saras control." Since then, however, I have not received the promised depth of instruction or materials. Ive participated in other sound therapy programs that were all-inclusive, providing comprehensive resources and support that Saras program has failed to deliver.Key concerns:Lack of Materials and Resources: No study materials or resources have been provided, making it impossible to deepen my understanding of the subject or apply what Ive learned.Surface-Level Content: The training has been very basic, not covering critical elements like instrument playing, business building, or how to apply the Auster Sound method.Inadequate Instruction and Support: Sessions have not been well-facilitated, and no tools or techniques were provided for us to practice sound therapy confidently. I raised concerns before the most recent session, but **** merely acknowledged her different approach, suggesting more content would come. This has not materialized.Unhelpful Content in the Latest Session: In the last session, we watched videos of children playing crystal bowls. **** remarked that playing the bowls is easy and not important. This contrasts with other programs, which offer detailed training on using the instruments in therapeutic practice.Failure to Address Accountability: Other sound therapy programs Ive taken provided a framework for responsible, accountable therapeutic work, but this course has not addressed essential aspects like holding space and ensuring client safety and respect.After requesting a refund, I was only provided with Saras refund policy, but given the failure to uphold the agreed-upon content.

  

  Business Response

  Date: 03/27/2025

  We have received your message. We are currently reviewing the matter and will follow up as soon as possible. 

  Customer Answer

  Date: 03/29/2025

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# ********, and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

  I am extremely dissatisfied with how the business has handled my complaint. When I first raised my concerns, **** assured me that they would be addressed during the final two classes of her course. Unfortunately, the situation only worsened. ****** class lacked depth and did not meet the standard of expertise I expected, especially when compared to others in the field.
  Furthermore, **** has refused to offer a refund to unsatisfied clients, which I find unacceptable. During the course, **** seemed frequently caught off guard by the slides, revealing a concerning lack of preparation and knowledge. When students appeared disengaged due to the lack of content and stimulation, **** responded by reducing the material she had initially promised to deliver to our cohort.
  The only demonstration of how to play the instruments was a half-hour video showing children banging on crystal bowls, where **** claimed that playing the instruments was the easy part. This experience has been disappointing, and I feel my concerns have been ignored.

   

  In order for the BBB to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** ******
  
  
  
  
   
  

  Customer Answer

  Date: 04/17/2025

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID# ********, and have determined that my complaint has NOT been resolved because:

  Your response reflects a concerning lack of professionalism, particularly in your decision to shift blame onto clients rather than take accountability for their dissatisfaction with your service.
  For the record, I have never fallen asleep during any other class or presentation. That accusation is a clear deflection from the real issueyour failure to deliver the value and content promised, which only underscores the lack of engagement in your offerings.
  I did not invest my time and money to be dismissed, slandered, or blamed. This experience has continually reaffirmed my belief that your services do not align with the standards or integrity associated with the holistic practices you claim to represent. Furthermore, I have confirmed with the *** that you were not a member at the time of our training, and are no longer affiliated with themraising further concerns about the legitimacy of your operation.
  While waivers offer some protection, they are not absolute, and I will be pursuing legal avenues to seek reimbursement for the amount paid. Thank you for providing ample evidence to support my claim.
  

   

   

   

   

  In order for the BBB to appropriately process your response, you MUST answer the question above.

  
  Sincerely,
  
  ****** ******
  
  
  
  
   
  

  

  Business Response

  Date: 04/23/2025

  Thank you for your follow-up.

  I want to begin by stating that it is never my intention to dismiss or invalidate any students experience. I understand that you are disappointed, and I regret that the training did not align with your expectations. However, its important to clarify and stand by the structure, delivery, and integrity of this offeringas well as my professional conduct throughout.

  My reference to your participation, including engagement with assignments and behavior during class, was not intended to deflect responsibility but to provide context regarding your experience and level of involvement. My understanding is that this is standard and necessary when responding to formal complaints. I made no accusationsonly observations that reflect the group learning environment.

  The course in question was delivered in full, in alignment with the publicly available curriculum and the signed participant agreement. While your perception of the experience is valid, many other students shared positive feedback about the same training, with descriptors such as life-changing, deeply informative, and meaningful. This contrast does not invalidate your view, but it does help illustrate the full picture.

  Regarding the *** affiliation: My training was listed with the ********************************* (***) during the time of your enrollment and participation. It remained listed until shortly after your complaint was filed with them, at which point the listing was removed. I can provide a screenshot of this listing for verification. I continue to work transparently with professional organizations to ensure accuracy and clarity around affiliations.

  As stated in the enrollment terms and agreementsigned by all participants, including yourselfthe course is non-refundable once it begins. This policy is in place due to the live nature of the program, access to proprietary content, and personalized support provided throughout.

  Lastly, I must respectfully disagree with the suggestion that this response or my actions reflect a lack of professionalism. My commitment to holding space, delivering meaningful content, and upholding ethical practices has been consistent across my work and my community.

  While we may not agree on the outcome, I appreciate the opportunity to respond and wish you the best in your continued professional path.
  Sincerely,