Creative therapy for children who experience the world differently.
Supporting children and young people with autism, ADHD, anxiety, emotional regulation and social challenges through a creative, relational and neuroaffirming approach.
A creative space to feel understood, build confidence and thrive.
Every child deserves a space where they can be themselves. For children with autism and ADHD, navigating big emotions, friendships, sensory experiences and the demands of everyday life can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Every Child Is Different. Every Session Is Different.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to supporting neurodivergent children.
Some children arrive with boundless energy and imagination. Others need time to feel safe, observe their surroundings or become comfortable with new experiences.
My approach begins with getting to know each child — their interests, strengths, sensitivities and unique way of experiencing the world.
Together, we use creative experiences to explore:
Big feelings and emotional regulation
Helping children recognise their emotional experiences, understand what contributes to overwhelm and discover ways to feel more regulated.
Friendships and social connection
Exploring relationships, belonging, communication and boundaries while respecting each child's individual social needs.
Confidence and self-esteem
Creating opportunities for children to experience success, develop a positive sense of identity and recognise their strengths.
Flexibility and resilience
Supporting children to navigate unexpected changes, tolerate uncertainty and experiment with new possibilities in a safe, playful environment.
Sensory exploration and regulation
Using art materials and sensory experiences to support self-awareness, choice and individual regulation needs.
Anxiety and transitions
Providing a supportive space to explore worries, school challenges, separation and changes in everyday routines.
Art therapy provides opportunities for connection, understanding and growth, while celebrating what makes each child unique.
Hi, I'm Noni...
Registered Art Therapist AThR (She/Her)
I'm a Masters-qualified art therapist and practising contemporary artist.
I offer a warm, playful and neuroaffirming approach to therapy, using creativity to help children explore their emotions, discover their strengths and develop confidence in themselves.
Through painting, sculpture, imaginative play and sensory exploration, children can communicate and make sense of their experiences in ways that don't always require words.
A client once held up a tube of bright orange paint and said "this colour reminds me of you." When I questioned why, she replied "because it's authentic!" I love working with young people, building a trusting connection and authentic rapport to support them through life's challenges.
I have worked in private practice, schools and hospital inpatient settings, supporting many people through their most difficult times.
I hold a Master of Art Therapy from La Trobe University and a Master of Contemporary Art from the Victorian College of the Arts. I am a registered professional member of the Australian, New Zealand and Asian Creative Arts Therapies Association (ANZACATA).
No artistic skills needed. Just curiosity, creativity and the freedom to explore.
What happens in an art therapy session?
Creativity, connection and a little bit of magic.
Every child is different, and so is every art therapy session.
Some children love to paint, draw or sculpt. Others are drawn to imaginative play, building elaborate worlds, experimenting with materials or simply enjoying the sensory experience of making something.
There are no prescribed activities, no expectations of artistic ability and no pressure to create a finished product.
My sessions are guided by each child's interests, strengths and individual needs. I provide a safe, playful and supportive environment where children are encouraged to explore, experiment, take creative risks and express themselves in ways that feel comfortable and meaningful to them.
But there's often much more happening beneath the surface.
A child building an imaginary world might be exploring friendships, relationships or their sense of belonging. A painting that doesn't go to plan might provide an opportunity to practise flexibility, problem-solving and persistence. Working with clay, paint or other sensory materials might help a child discover what feels calming, satisfying or regulating.
These experiences create opportunities to develop emotional awareness, confidence, resilience and a greater understanding of themselves.
Importantly, the therapeutic relationship is at the heart of everything I do. Through curiosity, connection and gentle reflection, I support children to make sense of their experiences, recognise their strengths and discover new possibilities.
And sometimes, the most meaningful therapeutic moments happen when we're simply playing, laughing and creating together.
Art Therapy Services
Individual Therapy
Individual therapy sessions for children and adolescents are available at Brighton Health Clinic for Kids, Bay St, Brighton. In-home and school visits are available on request (may be subject to additional fees). All art materials are supplied.
NDIS funding may be available for eligible participants.
Group Therapy and Workshops
Group therapy and workshops are held at various locations. Contact Noni for further information about upcoming workshops and bespoke art therapy programs designed for your school or company.
Ready to book a session or find out more?
If you have further questions about how art therapy can support you or to book an appointment, caIl Noni on 0466539872. Alternatively, fill in the form to get in touch.
