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"At Sparkly Aliens Inc., we are redefining what it means to truly connect, to heal, and to belong.
As a not-for-profit organisation, we are committed to creating inclusive, trauma-informed spaces that are accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means. We empower individuals to nourish their nervous systems, rediscover their authentic selves, and transform their lives.
Everyone deserves a place where authenticity thrives, and no one is left behind."
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— Tanya Hicks, CEO and Founder, Sparkly Aliens Inc.
About Us
Sparkly Aliens Inc. exists to transform the lives of older teens, adults, and carers who fall through the cracks of systems like the NDIS or face financial barriers to accessing essential well-being practices. Grounded in neuroscience and the proven impact of oxytocin-promoting social connection, we provide inclusive, trauma-informed, and neurodivergent-affirming spaces where individuals can reset their nervous systems, rediscover their authentic selves, and build meaningful lives. No one should ever feel left behind in their pursuit of connection and well-being.
Why Sparkly Aliens Inc. Exists
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We know that mental and emotional well-being are deeply tied to our ability to connect with others in safe, meaningful ways. Science shows that group activities which promote the release of oxytocin—a hormone vital for trust, connection, and stress reduction—are essential for human health and resilience.
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However, many older teens, adults, and carers face significant barriers to accessing these opportunities. For those who don’t meet NDIS criteria or lack financial resources, options for support are limited. Without access, many individuals are left feeling isolated, disconnected, and overwhelmed, leading to increased risks of mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, reliance on drugs and alcohol, and even suicidal ideation.
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Sparkly Aliens Inc. was created to change that. Our mission is to provide accessible, trauma-informed, and neurodivergent-affirming programs designed to nourish the nervous system, foster belonging, and help individuals reconnect with their authentic selves. Through affordable memberships and casual visits, we make these life-changing practices available to everyone.
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WHAT RESEARCH SAYS
“Oxytocin, a hormone crucial for trust and emotional bonding, is directly linked to group practices like safe social connection, shared experiences, and play.”
Source: Uvnäs-Moberg, K., Handlin, L., & Petersson, M. (2015). Self-soothing behaviors with oxytocin as a mediating mechanism: insights into the biological mechanisms of trauma. Frontiers in Psychology, 6, 1801. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01801
Autistic adults and those with unmet support needs are at significantly higher risk of mental health challenges, including depression and suicide, with suicide rates up to 9 times higher than the general population
Source: Cassidy, S., & Rodgers, J. (2017). Understanding and prevention of suicide in autism. The Lancet Psychiatry, 4(6), e11. doi:10.1016/S2215-0366(17)30162-1
“Carers experience higher rates of anxiety and depression, with 40% reporting they feel ‘always stressed’ due to their caring role.”