Abstract, creative graphic shapes on The Art of Wellbeing website for effective psychotherapy
Serene client smiling peacefully while relaxing in nature with flowers, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.
Abstract graphic shapes on The Art of Wellbeing website for creative arts therapy

We offer a
progressive approach to mental health and wellbeing

We help to uncover pathways towards hope, purpose and transformation, and we empower individuals, families and organisations to reach their full potential.

Protea flowers symbolizing growth, beauty and transformation.
Graphic pink flowers symbolising peace, harmony and wellbeing
Expressive squiggle graphic in yellow representing the happiness and joy found in creative expression
Teal graphic element representing the grounded support our art therapists provide every client on their wellbeing journey
Pink graphic shape representing the creativity and self-expression experienced in creative arts therapy consultations

At times

life can feel challenging…

That's why we are here.
Whether you are facing a major life transition, coping with a mental health concern, or simply feeling overwhelmed, it can be difficult to know where to turn for help.

Our team of compassionate and experienced therapists is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment where individuals and couples can find solutions and experience relief. 

Relationship Challenges • Grief & Loss • Life Transitions, Burnout & Stress • Disorders & Dependencies • Career & Study Difficulties • Neurodivergent Challenges • Child & Adolescent Needs • Chronic Pain & Illness • Anger & Overwhelm •

Relationship Challenges • Grief & Loss • Life Transitions, Burnout & Stress • Disorders & Dependencies • Career & Study Difficulties • Neurodivergent Challenges • Child & Adolescent Needs • Chronic Pain & Illness • Anger & Overwhelm •

“We need each other

and the sooner we learn that, the better for us all.”  


- Erik Erikson -

An expressive swirl with a brush and paint representing freedom of self expression and the support our clients receive in our care
A yellow graphic shape to represent the solid support we provide at The Art of Wellbeing
Graphic rain drops represent the release of emotions and feelings

Anxiety & Panic • Depression & Low Mood • PTSD & Trauma •

Anxiety & Panic • Depression & Low Mood • PTSD & Trauma •

Who we work with

  • Children playing with colorful paints during a family play therapy session.

    Children & Adolescents

    Our therapists are skilled in supporting children (3yo +) who struggle with a range of early developmental challenges and behavioural issues.

    Adolescents are offered a safe, supportive and creative space to explore identity, build self-esteem and work through mental health challenges, setting them up for the future they deserve.

  • Man embracing wellbeing and vitality by taking a walk in nature, symbolizing discovery, joy and mental clarity.

    Adults

    There are moments in life when the challenges we encounter seem too complex to navigate alone. During these times, reaching out for support is essential.

    With the right guidance, you can uncover the deeper causes of your struggles, rediscover hope, and begin the journey toward meaningful and lasting change.

  • Couple holding hands, playing together and expressing their creativity after a couples counseling session.

    Couples

    Relationships can be challenging, often leaving us feeling lost and uncertain. We offer couples a compassionate space to overcome difficulties, enhance communication, and rebuild trust.

    We strive to empower you and your partner to face challenges together, fostering a deeper connection and a more fulfilling, resilient partnership.

  • Family creating togetherness and strengthening bonds after a family therapy session

    Families

    Family dynamics can be complex and challenging, often feeling overwhelming to navigate.

    We provide families with a supportive space to enhance communication, strengthen bonds, and work through conflicts together, fostering healthier relationships and a more harmonious home environment.

  • Group of people in a creative arts therapy workshop exploring identity, meaning and emotions, supporting each other and creating a sense of community.

    Groups

    We provide a diverse range of workshops, courses and professional development opportunities for private clients, community groups, educational institutions and organisations.

    Our offerings are thoughtfully designed to enrich, empower, educate and inspire participants, fostering personal growth, and professional advancement.

  • Painting symbolizing a diverse range of mental health challenges.

    NDIS Participants

    We provide our NDIS participants with tailored support to help them build the skills necessary to reach their goals and enhance their overall wellbeing.

    Our compassionate approach empowers individuals to navigate their journey with confidence, fostering greater independence, resilience, and a fulfilling life.

More about our services
Hands reaching out to ask for support from our team of highly-qualified therapists.
A soft pink shape represents the kind and caring nature of our therapists
Our clients use a range of mediums to freely express themselves, such as this squiggly line painted in yellow
A string line representing the beginning of our clients journey towards wellbeing

Our Approach

We utilise a range of well-researched, evidence-based approaches that effectively treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and chronic pain. 

This flexible and tailored approach means we can find the best possible methods for you in your therapeutic journey, facilitating recovery and change in even the most challenging circumstances.

Learn more about our approach that help provide clarity, foster personal growth and self-actualisation, and offer a comprehensive path to healing and a deeper connection with yourself.

Our Practitioners

  • Rykie Smith is the founder and principal therapist of The Art of Wellbeing, a progressive psychotherapy practice supporting the North East Victoria community

    Rykie Smith

    (MA AThR)
    Founder, Principal Therapist

  • Shannon Hourigan is our play therapist at The Art of Wellbeing, a progressive psychotherapy practice supporting the North East Victoria community

    Shannon Hourigan

    (Ed MA CPT)
    Play Therapist

  • Nikkita Goncalves is an expressive arts therapist at The Art of Wellbeing, a progressive psychotherapy practice supporting the North East Victoria community

    Nikkita Goncalves

    (MA AThR)
    Expressive Arts Therapist

  • Ashleigh Marlow is a somatic arts therapist at The Art of Wellbeing, a progressive psychotherapy practice supporting the North East Victoria community

    Ashleigh Marlow

    (MA AThR)
    Somatic Arts Therapist

Meet our team

Some of our Referral Partners

  • Trusted referral partners include; Families, Fairness and Housing, The Victorian State Government
  • Trusted referral partners include; Centre Against Violence, supporting people who experience family and domestic violence
  • Trusted referral partners include; Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency, supporting indigenous communities
  • Trusted referral partners include; The Orange Door
  • Trusted referral partners include; Upper Murray Family Care, supporting children, young people, and families
  • Trusted referral partners include; MacKillop Family Services, empowering children and families to thrive
Let us help your clients →
Large graphic dots are used to demonstrate the importance of expressing yourself through multimodality and a range of creative mediums
Raindrop graphics represent the support we provide our clients to find emotional coherence
Squiggly line graphics create harmony and balance on the page, with many graphics demonstrating the complexity of balancing our emotions, feelings and needs
A flock of graphic birds flying together represents community, connection and support