Our Story

Brainwise Academy empowers you to think differently about childhood development.

Let’s grow brighter minds - together.

Who
we are.

Brainwise Academy is the brainchild of Aussie mum and experienced Behavioural Neuroscientist, Counsellor, Specialist Teacher, and Clinical Neuropsychotherapist Dr Nicolene Shields. We aim to be the go-to solution for parents and education professionals who feel overwhelmed, burnt out and are struggling to cope with daily behavioural challenges. Who simply yearn to understand their children … better.
Through our one-of-a-kind, high-quality online learning courses, we teach you child development tools for life. That’s right, life. Backed by science and real-world ready, our programs help you find your version of long-lasting life change for a happier, more harmonious life. For you, for your child, for the whole family.
We teach:
about the brain and how it develops
how to respond and nurture change in children
what practical tools to try at home or in the classroom

Our approach

Learn more about our approach

We believe every child is an individual with unique gifts to share. So, you won’t find a one-size-fits-all approach to learning here.

Our courses are designed to strengthen your ‘Tree of Self Discovery’. With every branch of knowledge you add, you’re growing your understanding and ability to nurture your child’s individual success.

It works because we are–

Brain-obsessed
We believe that understanding the brain is essential to understanding our children.
One of a kind
Brainwise Academy is the first organisation to merge the most innovative knowledge from neuroscience with education, neuropsychology and counselling into one course.
Change makers
We are here to empower families to create long-lasting change in their own world.

Explore our proven and practical courses.

Meet Nicolene.

Dr Nicolene Shields has spent her career helping children reach their potential. From her first days as a hospital intern psychologist through to leading her own unique specialised practice, Nicolene has 8 years of experience working with families.
Nicolene is a certified Behavioural Neuroscientist, Counsellor, Specialist Teacher & Clinical Neuropsychotherapist A doting mum to her beautiful son, Nicolene is enthusiastic about sharing her proven and practical advice to uplift the lives of families in Australia and around the world.
Nicolene’s expertise speaks for itself:
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Bachelor of Social Science in Psychology (with Honours)
Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy
Master of Education and Cognitive Psychology
Master of Special Education (Sensory Disabilities)
Master of Neuroscience
Graduate Certificate in Magnetic Resonance and Positron Emission Tomography
Doctor of Philosophy (Neuropsychology)
A profile photo of Dr Nicolene sitting on a stool
Dr Nicolene Shields
Behavioural Neuroscientist, Counsellor, Specialist Teacher
& Clinical Neuropsychotherapist
Our stamps of approval
You are in safe hands. Dr Nicolene Shields is a professional member of:
Praise from parents
Dr. Shields has been supporting our 8 year old daughter diagnosed with ASD and ADHD over the last few years.
She has been instrumental in developing strategies to support her emotional regulation, adjusting to change and improving everyday living.
Sonya
Nurse | Ipswich QLD
Dr Shields is my lifeline. Her years of experience and wealth of knowledge is priceless when dealing with the many issues that arise from having a son with ASD and an intellectual disability.
Dr Shields has taught me to understand how my son thinks and what the world looks like for him. Without Nicolene's help and support I would not be the mother I am today. Thank you, Nicolene.
Theresa
Mother | Gold Coast QLD
From the moment we met Dr Shields, she made us feel comfortable talking about our journey to date with our son.
Dr Shields could identify the behaviours he was displaying, and help us to apply strategies to support him. She is kind, compassionate, efficient and professional. We are happy to say that we consider Dr Shields a part of our family.
Renee
Mother | Rockhampton QLD

Start seeding lifelong change now.

If you want to learn a better way to nurture your child’s growth, it’s a no-brainer.
Join one of our proven and practical courses and become real-world ready to change your child’s challenging behaviour.
A close up photo of Dr Nicolene's hands holding some teaching aids

A quick question...

Our courses have been designed for parents and educational professionals.
Which approach would suit you best?