About Soar Art Therapy
Soar Art Therapy is a Melbourne-based therapy service founded by Vicki Soar, a registered Art Psychotherapist and Victim Services Counsellor.
We provide compassionate, trauma-informed therapy for children (4+), teenagers and adults, using creativity to help people process emotions, build resilience and reconnect with what matters most.
Our approach combines:
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Art Therapy
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Play-based therapy for younger children
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Neuroscience-informed practice
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Specialised interventions for Selective Mutism
Every session is tailored to the individual, and no artistic experience is needed.
We can help with
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Trauma and PTSD
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Anxiety and depression
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Emotional regulation
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ADHD and Autism (ASD)
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Relationship and attachment challenges
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Separation anxiety
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Situational/selective mutism
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Family violence and sexual assault recovery
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Victims of Crime support
Sessions available
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In person in Balaclava
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Online across Australia
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Outreach sessions (homes and schools, where appropriate)
Hi, I'm Vicki.
I'm a registered Art Psychotherapist in Australia and the UK, and the founder of Soar Art Therapy. For over a decade I've supported children, teenagers and adults across private practice, schools and community services. I'm passionate about creating a safe, accepting space where people can explore difficult experiences through creativity, whether they're navigating trauma, anxiety, neurodiversity or major life changes.
My work is grounded in compassion, evidence-based practice and the belief that healing happens when people feel safe, seen and supported.
Qualifications
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Registered Art Psychotherapist (Australia & UK)
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Professional Member – ANZACATA
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Level 4 Member – Australian Counselling Association
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Approved Victim Services Counsellor
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Member – Trauma Recovery Network Australia
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Trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Trained in Synergetic Play Therapy
Art therapy trauma professional development Selective Mutism Training, Asessment & Treatment Psychological First Aid: In response to the immediate aftermath of disaster and terrorism Acceptance Commitment Therapy Beginner, Trauma Focused and Anxiety and Depression Disorders Psychotherapy Networker Symposium: Brain spotting Certification in (EMDR) Therapy and Art Therapy for PTSD, Understanding ADHD (The Open University) Introduction to Autism Awareness and Support How to Target the Limbic System to Reverse Trauma’s Physiological Imprint Blue Knot Foundation Working with Complex Trauma Clients FIRST AID (Including CPR). ASIST (Suicide Skills Training) Working relationally with BPD Synergetic Play Therapy: integrating aggression and death in the playroom Trauma Focused Therapeutic Adventure Training Snow White Model: complex trauma training Sexual Exploitation Training Training in SABTS/TTO
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Art Therapy?
Art Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that uses creative processes to support emotional wellbeing. It isn't about artistic ability—it's about using creativity to explore thoughts, emotions and experiences in a safe and supportive way.
Do I need to be good at art?
Not at all. No artistic experience is required. The focus is on the process of creating rather than the finished artwork.
Who do you work with?
I work with children (4+), teenagers and adults. Sessions are tailored to each person's age, goals and individual needs.
What can Art Therapy help with?
Art Therapy can support people experiencing:
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Trauma and PTSD
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Anxiety and depression
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Emotional regulation
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ADHD and Autism (ASD)
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Low self-esteem
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Relationship challenges
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Separation anxiety
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Situational mutism
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Life transitions and stress
What happens in the first session?
The first session is an opportunity to get to know each other. We'll talk about your goals, answer any questions you have and begin exploring what support might look like. There is no pressure to make art if you're not ready. For children accessing art/play therapy the first session is just with the parents to discuss the child's needs/goals and create a therapy support plan.
What happens during a session?
Every session is different. Depending on your goals, we may use drawing, painting, clay, collage, creative play, mindfulness or conversation. Sessions move at your pace.
Is everything confidential?
Yes. Your privacy is important. Information is kept confidential except where there are legal or ethical responsibilities to protect someone's safety. This will be explained during your first appointment.
Can parents attend sessions?
For younger children, parents may be involved in parts of the therapy process. Every four individual sessions with a child will follow up with a parent session to check in with progress. Vicki will also communicate anything helpful from each session to the parent to support progress at home. Parent support sessions are also available to discuss progress and strategies to use at home.
How long are sessions?
Most individual sessions are 50 minutes.
How many sessions will I need?
Everyone is different. Some people attend for a short period to work on a specific goal, while others benefit from longer-term therapy. This can be discussed together as therapy progresses.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can contact Soar Art Therapy directly to arrange an appointment.
Where are sessions held?
Sessions are available:
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In-person at the Balaclava studio
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Online via secure telehealth
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Outreach at schools, homes or community settings (where appropriate)
Do you offer online Art Therapy?
Yes. Online sessions are available world-wide and are adapted to be just as engaging and supportive as face-to-face sessions.
What should I bring?
Just yourself. All art materials are provided for in-person sessions. If you're attending online, you'll receive simple suggestions for materials you can use at home.
How much is a session?
Vicki uses a sliding scale of fees to support all funding schemes, please contact for more information.
Can I use NDIS funding?
Yes. Soar Art Therapy supports self-managed and plan-managed NDIS participants. Vicki can use the art therapy or counselling code item ($156.16).
Can I claim through Private Health Insurance?
Many private health funds, including Medibank, ahm and ARHG, may provide rebates for Art Therapy. Please check with your provider to confirm your level of cover.
Are Victim Services referrals accepted?
Yes. Support is available through eligible funding pathways, including Victims of Crime (Victoria), the NSW Victims Support Scheme, and family violence services such as Orange Door and The Salvation Army.
Do you work with schools?
Yes. School outreach sessions, consultations and collaborative planning with teachers and wellbeing teams are available where appropriate.
Can Art Therapy be combined with other therapies?
Absolutely. Art Therapy often works well alongside psychology, counselling, speech pathology, occupational therapy and other health supports. Collaboration with your care team can occur with your consent.
What if I don't know what to say?
That's completely okay. Sometimes words are difficult. Art can provide another way to express thoughts and feelings, and there's never any pressure to talk before you're ready.
Is Art Therapy evidence-based?
Yes. Art Therapy is a recognised allied health profession supported by research. At Soar Art Therapy, sessions are informed by evidence-based approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed practice, neuroscience, and child development.
Can I book a parent consultation without my child attending?
Yes. Parent and carer consultations are available to discuss concerns, develop strategies and support your child's wellbeing, even before therapy begins.
