Welcome to Creative Butterfly
Expressive Arts Therapy!
Trauma-informed, creative support for children, teens, and adults — in Ballarat and online.
PACFA Registered Counsellor · Ikon Institute & MIECAT-trained
Currently practising at the Centre for Perinatal Health & Parenting and BRICC (Ballarat Regional Integrated Cancer Centre)
2026 Federation University Commerce Ballarat Business Excellence Awards — Health & Wellbeing Finalist.
What is Art Therapy?
Art therapy is a gentle, expressive approach to healing that welcomes all abilities — no artistic skill required. If you can make a mark on paper, move your body, or simply show up with curiosity, you can take part.
Together, we focus on the creative process itself — not the outcome. In a safe, supportive space, you're invited to explore what's alive within you through a range of creative modalities: drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, sand tray, movement, music, writing, and bilateral drawing, among others. I also integrate elements of Intuitive Intelligence to support deeper self-awareness and embodied transformation.
We reflect together on what your creation means to you, and how these insights can support your emotional wellbeing and everyday life. Art therapy offers a powerful way to process emotions, regulate your nervous system, and navigate personal challenges — gently, and at your own pace. My approach honours your strengths, helping you reconnect with your inner wisdom and move toward the life you want to live.
Who Art Therapy Can Support ?
Art-making is a powerful form of communication that goes beyond words. It can support emotional healing, reduce stress and anxiety, and foster a deeper sense of wellbeing.
Art therapy is particularly supportive for those who have experienced trauma. Trauma often lives in the body, affecting the nervous system, muscles, and connective tissues, and can quietly shape our day-to-day lives when left unaddressed. I work with women and children who have experienced childhood trauma, domestic violence, or other forms of abuse, as well as individuals navigating health crises, end-of-life challenges, or those who find traditional talk therapy overwhelming or inaccessible.
Sessions are available one-on-one or in group settings, both in person and online.
Stay Connected
For ongoing creative inspiration and community, join the Creative Butterfly Collective, a nurturing online space with fortnightly updates, upcoming events, and special offers, honouring your pace, your story, and your inner resilience.
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Ways We Might Work Together
1:1 Therapy
In-person in Ballarat, online via Zoom, or outreach to your location.
Group Programs
Including Sit & Stitch and group art therapy at BRICC — creative connection alongside others on a similar path.
Perinatal & Parenting Support
Delivered through the Centre for Perinatal Health & Parenting (CPHP).
Speaking & Organisational Work
Talks, workshops, and tailored programs for organisations and community groups.
Healthcare and Organisational Settings
"Fiona Hocking plays an invaluable role at the Wellness Centre, offering art therapy that provides deep emotional support and creative expression. Her sessions are more than just a therapeutic outlet — they are safe and nurturing spaces for processing fear, grief, hope, and resilience. Her work adds immeasurable value to the holistic care we provide."
— Simone Noelker, Wellness Centre and Pastoral Care Manager, Grampians Health
"Fiona was consistently well-prepared, creative, and generous with her time and care. Her openness and cultural sensitivity allowed her to integrate seamlessly into our group, adapting to the diverse needs of our participants with warmth and respect. We highly recommend Fiona for her professionalism, empathy, and dedication to creating inclusive, meaningful experiences through art therapy."
— Caroline Parry, Social Support Team, Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council
Individual Therapy
Art therapy has proven itself to be extremely helpful for healing and maintaining good mental health. Fi is a practitioner with high levels of both compassion and skill, and I highly recommend her work."
— Janette Dalgliesh
"I visited Fi to help me with a few things. I can definitely say 'I am so glad I did.' I highly recommended Fi's professionalism and confidentiality — it's of the highest standards. I completed the Richards Trauma Process (TRTP) with Fi — if you're navigating mental illness, trauma, anxiety, or depression, it's worth exploring."
— Brad Coulter
"Art therapy has helped me express things that felt too difficult to put into words in traditional talk therapy. It's made processing emotions and understanding my internal world feel more accessible by engaging creatively in different ways. Through art-making, I've found a way to regulate my nervous system that doesn't feel emotionally or physically draining — just supportive and grounding."
— Philippa, NDIS Participant
Group Therapy
Video Testimonial created and spoken by Sarah, Wondrous You 6-week group art therapy program participant.
*All participants in this video gave their consent to use their images and video footage for promotional purposes.
"Fi is a beautiful soul with truckloads of creativity and talent. Creative Butterfly workshops will enrich your life."
— Nicole Holland
"Working with Fi in a group setting has been so rewarding and valuable in ways I didn't expect. Her deep understanding of the therapeutic process and wonderful resources allowed me to discover new insights that have been very helpful."
— Trish, Wondrous You 6-week group art therapy participant
Sitting with other women in a safe space, exploring our intuition and voices that have long been silenced, was incredibly moving... At first, I felt scared and self-judging when it came to the creative activity, but as the session unfolded, feelings of sadness, connection, and curiosity rose to the surface. I would absolutely love more time and space to deepen the experience."
— Awaken & Create Participant
One on One Sessions available
Group Sessions available
Online/Outreach Appointments available
