Training for volunteers
This training program is for people committed to becoming a volunteer alcohol and other drug counsellor.
Applications for 2023 have now closed. Applications for the 2024 program will open in mid-March 2024.
No applications will be considered outside of the application period.
What does training involve?
Successful applicants attend weekly training sessions for 21 weeks while learning counselling skills taught by specialists in the drug and alcohol sector, and related fields. Volunteers are then placed within an alcohol and other drugs (AOD) agency for approximately 12 months where they volunteer for a minimum of four hours each week. Experienced counsellors provide ongoing supervision during this period.
Who can become a volunteer alcohol and other drug counsellor?
You will need:
- a commitment to working with people affected by AOD-related problems
- excellent interpersonal skills
- a non-judgemental attitude towards people who experience AOD-related harms
- the capability to learn about and apply, evidence-based practice in the context of the unique needs of diverse people affected by AOD-related problems.
- a willingness to complete the training and placement components of the program
- English language literacy and verbal fluency
- basic computer literacy.
People who have experienced alcohol and other drug problems within the past two years are not eligible to apply.
How do I apply?
The program is advertised in The West Australian newspaper and on the Mental Health Commission website each year in early March. Applicants are shortlisted and successful applicants are invited for an interview in May. Training for successful applicants starts in early June.
For detailed information please see the 2023 Volunteer Drug and Alcohol Counsellors' Training Program Information Sheet.
For more information contact AOD.training@mhc.wa.gov.au or phone (08) 6553 0560.