Creative support for social connection, confidence and emotional wellbeing

NDIS-funded Group and Individual programs

Art Dojo offers group and individual art-for-wellbeing sessions for NDIS participants in Cairns and online. Our sessions use creative activities to support self-expression, confidence, and emotional wellbeing.

You don’t need any art experience - it’s not about art skills or “getting it right.” It’s about connection, building new skills, and enjoying the process. If you’re already a budding Picasso, Van Gogh or Kahlo, you can explore your creativity further, guided by an experienced artist who adapts activities to your interests and goals.

Read on for more information on the programs. If you have any questions and to book, please contact me.

Evidence-based Art for Wellbeing programs

Art Dojo Art for wellbeing programs draw on evidence-based approaches that show how creative expression supports emotional regulation, resilience and a sense of personal achievement. The creative process also supports fine motor skills and other practical abilities that assist in daily life.

We use accessible, creative activities as tools for:

Building communication and social skills
Developing daily living skills
Strengthening emotional regulation, resilience, and confidence
Gaining skills for everyday life.

Each program is adapted to participant needs, goals, and interests.

Art Dojo programs can be accessed under both Core and Capacity Building funding, depending on your individual NDIS plan.

Check-out the dedicated Art Dojo NDIS program social pages to see work created during the sessions:

Group Sessions: Connection Through Creativity

Our small group programs offer participants a calm, supportive space where participants can connect, express themselves and grow confidence over time. Group sessions are held in Cairns on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Sessions are informed by wellbeing and mental health research showing the benefits of regular creative engagement for nervous system regulation and social development. The focus is on shared experience, emotional safety, and building life skills — not performance or perfection.

Sessions aim to build capacity in areas such as:

Social interaction and community participation
Emotional regulation and self-awareness
Resilience and creative problem-solving
Daily life and relationship skills
Managing frustration and anxiety
Confidence and openness to new experiences.

Sessions are designed in line with:

Creative wellbeing research
Strengths-based and person-centred practice
The principles of psychosocial recovery and neurodiversity inclusion

Individual Sessions: In-Person or Online

Tailored creative support at your own pace.

For those who prefer 1:1 support - or live in regional or remote areas - we offer individual wellbeing sessions. These sessions focus on emotional expression, nervous system regulation, communication, and creative confidence, through gentle, accessible art-based approaches.

Benefits include:

Personalised support guided by current wellbeing research
Flexible, participant-led structure
A safe and calming outlet for self-reflection and emotional growth.

All you need for online sessions:

A device with internet access - sessions are conducted over Teams
Some basic art materials - we can help you get set up.

A quick note on scope

Art Dojo sessions are not psychotherapy or counselling, nor are they ‘learn to draw’ art classes.

Participants may reflect on emotional experiences and generalised wellbeing discussion may occur, however psychotherapy and psychoanalysis is out of scope.
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Participants may naturally develop art skills, but the focus remains on using creative practices to support wellbeing and daily life outcomes, supported by evidence in the arts and health space.

Interested in joining or referring someone?

Get in touch - I would love to chat about how Art Dojo can support your goals.

Get in touch

Art [ahrt]: the expression or application of creative skill and imagination.

Dojo [doh-joh]: “Place of the Way”; a place for immersive learning or meditation.