27/08/2026
Firstly I want to say Im deeply saddened by the ongoing blows to the NDIS scheme and what it could mean for the future of people with disability in this country. Having been a big supporter of NDIS from the beginning, its such a shame that it has come such a long way from living up to its potential. Those first round of cuts hit us art therapists and the people we support hard, and the media outrage, lengthy enquiry and price cuts has seen us quietly get pushed out of the NDIS, with many losing access to flexible funding, and leaving many of us asking - whats next?
Slowing down over the last year has given me the opportunity to really have a think about what meaningful support actually look like for neurodivergent people in a world where accessability to good supports is feeling further and further from reach I have realised we need to reframe our thinking about how we find the support we need and look more towards building supportive communitiies and affordable therapy options.
After 18 years of working with autistic and ADHD people, and 10 years of Sensorium, one thing has become incredibly clear - the moments that create the biggest shifts aren't always the therapy techniques. They're the moments when someone realises - "oh phew! its not just me." and they hear another person describe exactly what they've been experiencing. This is where they can stop beating themselves up and trying to fit in, and replace years of shame with acceptance and understanding.
And the key to gathering community together is through art and creativity, that give us such an easy way to connect with others more easily and express parts of ourselves that words cant. So, alongside individual neuro-affirming counselling and art psychotherapy, I'm creating more affordable, flexible and accessible ways for people to connect, learn and grow together!
Over the coming months I'll be rolling out:
:> Rainbow Connections creative discussion and art jams
:> Creative online sessions where you can create, chat or simply listen, with no long-term commitment
:> Short-term ADHD and AuDHD coaching programs focused on understanding, acceptance and integration
:>Self-paced online resources and workshops so support is available wherever you are
And of course Individual counselling, art therapy and neurodiversity coaching for people wanting more personalised support - which you can access either in person or online right now! Openings available so get in touch!
I have now expanded my practice and registered as a clinical counsellor with PACFA, alongside my work as an art therapist and neurodiversity coach, so more funding options are available. I also have a spanking new new website -so keep your eyes peeled for my ever-so-slow rollout as I practise what I preach, embrace my own squiggles and build Sensorium in a way that honours my own capacity while continuing to find accessable ways to help others build theirs!
Check it @
www.sensoriumstudio.com.au
