Face to Face – Elevate

Group Facilitation Skills Training for AOD Workers (in-person)

1-day workshop:

Date: 12th August 2026

Time: 10am – 4:30pm

Location: Catholic Leadership Centre – 576 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002. (read more about travel contribution)

Training Room: Studio 7 (upstairs)

Cost: $40 + booking fee

Learning outcomes

By the end of the workshop participants will be able to:

Establish the culture of the group and safety within the group space.
Define content and process and apply both with balance between the two.
Identify common challenges that present in the delivery of group programs and apply strategies for managing these.
Understand how to work in a variety of group formats.
Apply skills and strategies for attending to responsivity in groupwork.
Apply skills for providing the group with a sense of closure at the end of a group program.

Eligibility Criteria

This training is open to people working in AOD-specific roles in publicly funded services (i.e. AOD, mental health locals).

Who is not eligible?

Students on placement or internships, workers outside of Victoria, workers not in an AOD-specific role.

Register

To register, please follow

Terms & Conditions

If you cannot attend, cancel your registration and make your spot available to someone else on the waitlist. Refunds available only up to 1 day before event.

Recognising and Working with Cognitively Impaired Clients in Alcohol and Other Drug Settings

Presented by Dr James Gooden, Sarah Bussell & Georgia Bolt

Register: here

Working with cognitively impaired clients can be a significant challenge, particularly when access to assessment services and resources is limited. Cognitive difficulties may arise from a range of aetiologies, including acquired brain injury, mental health, substance use, or neurodevelopmental differences and together, this can have a cumulative and adverse impact on treatment outcomes and recovery.

This workshop will provide practical strategies for working with clients who present with or have concerns regarding cognitive difficulties. In particular, this workshop will cover four main themes:

Recognising cognitive impairment
Underlying aetiologies across the lifespan
Supporting clients with cognitive impairment
Referral pathways: When might assessment be indicated?

Who should attend: AOD clinicians, counsellors, support workers and allied health

Registration enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au

Date: Friday 26th June 2026
Time: 9:30am – 4:30pm
Venue: Turning Point, Level 1, Training Rooms – 110 Church St, Richmond 3121

Cost: Free – This workshop is only available to staff working in Victorian state-funded Drug and Alcohol services.
Register: here
Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au

About the Presenters

Sarah Bussell is a Clinical Neuropsychology Registrar at Turning Point Statewide Services, where she provides secondary consultation and neuropsychological assessment for adults with significant substance use histories, collaborating with consumers, referrers, and care teams to guide care planning and formulation. Her work centres on valuing consumer perspectives and experiences whilst considering differential diagnoses and applying evidence-based strategies/supports to enhance everyday functioning. Across both community outpatient and inpatient settings, she also has experience in rehabilitation, complex discharge planning, and co-occurring factors.

She completed her Master of Psychology (Clinical Neuropsychology) at the University of Melbourne in 2023 and is committed to translating neuropsychological knowledge into meaningful support for both consumers and healthcare teams.

Georgia Bolt is a Senior Clinical Neuropsychologist at Turning Point and Austin Health, providing assessment and consultation for adults with complex co-occurring conditions across inpatient and community settings. She works with clients and multidisciplinary teams to inform formulation, support diagnosis, and guide management, including cognitive, behavioural and decision-making capacity issues.

Georgia was awarded the inaugural Maureen Molloy Prize in Clinical Neuropsychology at the University of Melbourne and recently completed her PhD through Monash University, investigating a personalised mHealth cognitive intervention for older adults drinking at hazardous levels.

She has published in AOD settings and presented at national and international conferences.

Dr James Gooden is a Senior Clinical Neuropsychologist and clinician researcher based at the Turning Point Addiction Neuropsychology Service in Richmond, Victoria. His case load includes individuals experiencing a high degree of clinical complexity, including comorbid traumatic or acquired brain injury, alcohol and polysubstance use, mental health difficulty, complex trauma, and forensic and psychosocial issues.

He is a co-author of the clinical practice guidelines for Managing Cognitive Impairment in AOD Treatment published by Turning Point, and has authored 14 academic manuscripts, a book chapter, and presented widely across local, national and international conferences in addition to delivering training across the healthcare sector.

Cancellation policy: This is a free event. If you cannot attend, manage your ticket via your Eventbrite account and cancel your registration. Alternatively, email tp@turningpoint.org.au no later than 3 days before advising of your inability to attend.

Introduction to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Alcohol and Other Drug Workers in-person workshop

Session Full

Presented by James McGregor

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is among the most widely researched and practised therapeutic approaches for people seeking treatment for alcohol and other drugs (AOD). CBT is highly effective in supporting people to identify and understand unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaviour, and then to make positive changes to these. The ways that CBT is utilised have changed over the decades, with current approaches expanding the focus to seamlessly blend traditional CBT principles with concepts of mindfulness, acceptance, compassion, metacognition and therapeutic relationship dynamics.

In this workshop, we will cover a range of techniques and interventions to support people to make sustained changes in their lives, whether directly for AOD use or other areas of life. This will include the knowledge and skills to raise awareness of unhelpful thinking patterns and to foster an environment that encourages positive changes in behaviour. This will be a practical and interactive workshop where you will be introduced to a range of tools and relapse prevention strategies which you can use collaboratively with people in recovery-oriented practice.

This will be a practical and interactive workshop where you will be introduced to a range of tools, worksheets and Relapse Prevention Strategies that you can use collaboratively with your client to promote a recovery-oriented practice.

About James

James McGregor has over 15 years experience working in clinical AOD programs, both individual and group-based programs, as well as leading education and training programs for staff and consumers. He holds a Masters of Social Work, a Graduate Diploma in Narrative Therapy, and a Diploma of Leadership & Management.

Who should attend?

State-funded AOD workers new to their role and/or those looking to refresh and update existing knowledge.

Eligibility Criteria

This workshop is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian State-funded AOD organisation.

Date: Tuesday 30th June 2026
Time: 9:30am – 4:00pm
Venue: Turning Point, Level 1, Training Rooms – 110 Church St, Richmond 3121

Cost: Free

Register Now

Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au

Cultural Safety Training (in-person)

Date: Tuesday 6 October 2026, 9:30AMAM – 3:00PM

Location: Catholic Leadership Centre – 576 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne, VIC 3067 (Read more about Travel Contribution)

Cost: $40 (tickets can only be purchased via credit card)

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Description

VACCHOs Introduction to Aboriginal Cultural Safety training encompasses, and builds on, cultural awareness content by providing considerations and advice to implement cultural safety considerations into practice. Participant learning and understanding are enhanced by the personal stories and the lived experience of our facilitators while exploring Aboriginal identities, cultures, and history.

The session covers:

Understanding cultural safety and its importance in increasing service accessibility and effective engagement with Australia’s First Peoples.
The historical and ongoing impacts of colonisation and colonial policies on Australia’s First
Peoples culture and Communities
Trauma-informed practice
First Peoples diverse identities; respectful terminology and language
Cultural Load and its impacts on individuals, Communities, and organisations
How Equity and Self-determination are vital to cultural safety
Foundational skills to implement cultural safety into practice
Fostering respectful relationships with First Peoples and Communities
A timeline of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Strength and Resilience

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Eligibility Criteria

This training is open to people working in AOD-specific roles in publicly funded services (i.e. AOD, mental health locals).

Who is not eligible?

Students on placement or internships, workers outside of Victoria, workers not in an AOD-specific role.

Terms & Conditions

Refunds are available up to 7 days prior to the event.

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for AOD workers

This event is now full.

Date: 2 Day Workshop – Monday 22nd & Tuesday 23rd June 2026 (AEST)
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm
Location: Turning Point, 110 Church St, Richmond 3121, Level 1, Training Room Two
Cost: Free
Enquiries: tp@turningpoint.org.au

IMPORTANT NOTE: This workshop is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation.

Curious about Motivational Interviewing (MI) or looking to build your confidence in having conversations about change? This practical, hands-on workshop is designed especially for those working in Department of Health funded AOD positions who want to learn (or re-learn) how MI can make everyday client interactions more effective and meaningful.

Motivational Interviewing is a simple yet powerful approach that helps people find their own reasons for making positive changes — without pressure or persuasion. It’s about working with clients, not on them, and creating space for open, respectful conversations about change.

Across two days, you’ll have the chance to:

Learn what MI is and how it supports real-world AOD work
Experience the “spirit” of MI — collaboration, acceptance, and compassion
Practice using questions, reflections, and summaries to keep conversations flowing
Explore ways to respond when clients feel unsure or stuck
Build skills you can take straight back into your day-to-day work

Lauren Zelunka has over 10 years of experience in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector, with the past five years focused primarily on AOD education and training. She is passionate about equipping professionals with the skills and confidence to use Motivational Interviewing effectively in their work. Lauren is currently involved with the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers Oceania (MINTO) as a Friend of MINTO and is working toward becoming a registered member in the coming years.

Sheridon Byrne is an Education and Training Officer within the workforce development team, with over two decades of experience in capacity building across family violence and AOD. Her work focuses on strengthening practitioner confidence and capability in having effective, respectful conversations about change. Her work includes private consultation and the design of tailored training programs that support sustainable skill development. Sheridon is deeply committed to fostering systemic change and supporting practitioners to use MI with clarity, confidence, and compassion in their day‑to‑day AOD work.

Who should attend? Victorian Department Health funded AOD workers new to their role and/or those looking to refresh and update existing knowledge.

NOTE: This online training is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation in an AOD role, please register with your WORK email, your ticket will be cancelled if you do not use your work email, thank you.

Cancellation policy: This workshop is a free event, however if your circumstances change, please log into your Eventbrite account and cancel your registration or alternatively email tp@turningpoint.org.au no later than 7 days prior to advice of your inability to attend.

ATTENTION: places are limited in these free workshops – If you register and do not attend your organisation will receive a fee.

ADHD, Substance Use & Young People (in-person)

Date: Wednesday, 27 May 2026

Time: 9.30AM – 4:30PM

Location: In person at Orygen – Parkville VIC 3052

*catering will be provided

Description:

Attention Deficit and Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders, with a typical onset before 12 years of age. It can significantly impact a young person’s participation in life, school and community. ADHD can increase the risk of harmful substance use, and AOD dependence, particularly if someone’s ADHD has been undiagnosed or not treated.

This training is designed for AOD workers who want to deepen their understanding of ADHD, and build confidence in responding to co-occurring substance use.

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

Describe the core symptoms, subtypes, and developmental course of ADHD in young people.
Understand the prevalence and patterns of co-occurring ADHD and substance use problems among young people
Describe the role of medication in treating ADHD and the evidence regarding their safety and effectiveness in individuals with co-occurring substance use.
Apply evidence-based psychological and behavioral interventions for ADHD and co-occurring substance use

Eligibility Criteria

This training is open to people working in AOD-specific roles in publicly funded services (i.e. AOD, mental health locals).

Who is not eligible?

Students on placement or internships, workers outside of Victoria, workers not in an AOD-specific role.

Terms & Conditions

Please cancel your registration at least 24 hours before and make your spot available to someone else on the waitlist.

The Art of Asking, Grant Writing Masterclass (in-person)

Please note that because this training is advertised on behalf of another provider, it does not quality for the travel contribution scheme.

Registrations will be screened to ensure you meet this criteria:

This masterclass is tailored to those in the AOD sector who are newer to grant writing or want to strengthen their foundation skills. This includes emerging AOD sector leaders (i.e. team leaders, coordinators, project workers) in the AOD sector responsible for, or who contributed to, developing submissions to the Department of Health.

Date: Tuesday, 24 February 2026, 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM

Location: Turning Point. 110 Church Street Richmond, VIC 3121

Description:

A practical entry-level masterclass for emerging AOD sector leaders who are new to grant writing or have limited experience. This session will help build the skills, strategies and confidence needed to develop standout grant submissions for Department of Health funding.

Optional add on: Budget Extender Session – This optional session is designed as a practical starting point for people with little or no experience in grant budgeting.

Please note: This is not a session that will direct you to current funding opportunities. If you’re an experienced grant writer, you’ll find the content covers material you’re already confident with.

By the end of this masterclass participants will be able to:

Draft a strong funding ‘pitch’ that supports cohesive and successful grant writing.
Address the key components of government grant applications.
Recognise and avoid common pitfalls (based on ‘real world’ Department of Health feedback).
Apply strategies for writing clearly, persuasively, and with impact.
Use AI tools ethically and effectively in grant writing.
Strengthen your organisations funding culture and learn how to turn an unsuccessful submission into future success

Facilitators:

Dr Allison Salmon (she/her), Director, The Centre for Impact & Change – For over 25 years, Dr Allison Salmon has driven meaningful change in health policies, systems, and practices through evidence-based innovation. Allison brings extensive expertise in developing compelling funding submissions, crafting influential government proposals, and effectively pitching strategic initiatives to diverse stakeholders. With deep experience working directly with government agencies, Allison effectively navigates policy environments, influences health priorities, and aligns interventions with governmental objectives. Her skill in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and conducting comprehensive gap analyses ensures her submissions and pitches resonate deeply with decision-makers. Allison’s specialist expertise spans alcohol and other drug policy, including harm reduction strategies such as drug consumption spaces, overdose prevention, and tobacco control.

Lucy Demant (she/her), Principal Consultant, The Centre for Impact & Change – For nearly twenty years, Lucy has been working to improve outcomes for children, young people and the community. Lucy is a skilled writer with deep expertise in competitive grant and submission writing for government and philanthropy, writing for web, resource development and values-based messaging. A strategic thinker she has led major workforce development and capacity-building projects and delivered complex programs at scale. She is a natural collaborator, skilled in facilitating groups, cultivating sophisticated partnerships and engaging diverse stakeholders. Lucy brings her management coaching expertise to The Centre’s services – she is adept at coaching managers and emerging leaders, honing their practice to create high-performing, cohesive teams. Lucy’s specialist areas include the alcohol and other drug sector, family violence, youth disability and youth mental health, with a strong foundation in health promotion, prevention and early intervention.

Eligibility Criteria

This training is funded for emerging leaders (i.e. team leaders, coordinators, project workers) in the AOD sector responsible for, or who contributed to, developing submissions to the Department of Health.

Who is not eligible?

Students, interns, workers from other community sectors such as family violence, homelessness, mental health and AOD workers outside of Victoria.

Terms & Conditions

If you cannot attend, cancel your registration and make your spot available to someone else on the waitlist.

Superskills: Core Skills for Supervisors (in-person)

Click here to register

2-day workshop:

Day 1: Wednesday, 2 September 2026 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Day 2: Thursday, 3 September 2026 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Location: TBC

Cost: $80 + booking fee

This is a specialist skills workshop suitable for advanced practitioners who are current or future practice supervisors.

Description:

If you are a practice or clinical supervisor in the alcohol and other drug sector (or looking to become one), this workshop is for you. Gain a deep understanding of the ‘why’ as well as the ‘how’ and ensure that you have the right theoretical and practical foundation skills to offer powerful practice supervision across different contexts and supervisees.

You will learn about developing and implementing supervision contracts and plans, assessing supervisee development needs, and navigating challenges and roadblocks.

Learning outcomes

Understand different approaches to supervision and determine which one is right for you and your supervisees
Understand and apply structured practical supervisory processes to deepen core supervisory relationship skills, including listening, questioning, guiding, and giving and receiving feedback
Understand and utilise the reflective practice model of supervision
Understand and practice self-reflection and self-practice as a way of improving supervisory skills
Increase skills in facilitating reflective practice in staff
Understand and utilise a framework to support decision-making with ethical dilemmas
Improve knowledge and skill in responding to staff exposed to complex client presentations

Eligibility Criteria

This training has been funded for workers employed in a Victorian State-funded Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) service, including Peer and LLE workers.

Who is not eligible?

Students on placement or internships, workers from other community sectors such as family violence, homelessness, mental health, and AOD workers outside of Victoria.

Terms & Conditions

If you cannot attend, cancel your registration and make your spot available to someone else on the waitlist. Refunds are available only up to 1 day before the event.

Responding to Co-occurring Conditions (in-person)

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2-day workshop:

Day 1: Wednesday, 14 October 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Day 2: Thursday, 15 October 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Location: Catholic Leadership Centre – 576 Victoria Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002 (read more about travel contribution)

Cost: $80 + booking fee

Description:

Co-occurring mental health issues are the norm rather than the exception among people seeking alcohol and other drug treatment. Across this 2-day workshop you will learn how to adapt and expand your existing alcohol and other drug treatment skills to assist your clients with managing mental health symptoms.

Deepen your understanding of co-occurring mental health and alcohol and other drug issues and build your knowledge, confidence and skills to better understand clients’ needs, respond effectively, and adapt treatment. Find out what you need to know about the different co-occurring conditions you may encounter and how to effectively incorporate best practice responses into your treatment.

Learning outcomes

Recognise and understand the common mental health conditions in alcohol and other drug treatment
Undertake a thorough assessment and develop an integrated case formulation to guide your practice
Apply a range of alcohol and other drug treatment skills to working with clients with co-occurring mental health conditions
Learn how to respond therapeutically and effectively within the bounds of the alcohol and other drug treatment setting

Eligibility Criteria

This training is open to people working in AOD-specific roles in publicly funded services (i.e. AOD, mental health locals).

Who is not eligible?

Students on placement or internships, workers outside of Victoria, workers not in an AOD-specific role.

Terms & Conditions

If you cannot attend, cancel your registration and make your spot available to someone else on the waitlist. Refunds available only up to 1 day before event.

Responding to Co-occurring Conditions (in-person)

This is a paid event. Click here to register

2-day workshop:

Day 1: Wednesday, 11 March 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Day 2: Thursday, 12 March 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Location: Monash College City Campus – 750 Collins Street, Docklands VIC 3008(read more about travel contribution)

Cost: $80 + booking fee

Description:

Learning outcomes

Recognise and understand the common mental health conditions in alcohol and other drug treatment
Undertake a thorough assessment and develop an integrated case formulation to guide your practice
Apply a range of alcohol and other drug treatment skills to working with clients with co-occurring mental health conditions
Learn how to respond therapeutically and effectively within the bounds of the alcohol and other drug treatment setting

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Eligibility Criteria

This training is open to workers employed in a Victorian State-funded Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) service only.

Who is not eligible?

Students on placement or internships, workers from other community sectors such as family violence, homelessness, mental health, and AOD workers outside of Victoria.

Terms & Conditions

Refunds are available up to 7 days prior to the event. Please email elevate@vaada.org.au if you can no longer attend.