The Volunteer Addiction Counsellors’ Training Program, a Workforce Development initiative, has been running since 1989. It is a joint project between the Drug and Alcohol Office and the National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University of Technology. The program focuses on: selection, training, placement and supervision of volunteer counsellors to respond to the immediate and long-term needs of clients with alcohol and other drug-related problems.
What do you need to become a Volunteer Addiction Counsellor?
You need to have:
- a non-judgmental and open-minded attitude towards drug use problems;
- a knowledge of, an interest, or background in the alcohol and other drug field;
- a commitment to working with adults and young people drug-related problems;
- excellent interpersonal skills; and
- an ability to work with people from widely diverse backgrounds and different needs.
How to become a Volunteer Addiction Counsellor?
The program is advertised in The West Australian newspaper every year in early March. Contact details for an application form and information sheet are listed in the advertisement.
A shortlist of applicants is determined and selections take place in May.
What does training involve?
Successful applicants will commence a six-month training period (3.5 hours each Saturday morning) and on completion of training volunteers will work for a minimum of 4 hours per week for a period of not less than 12 months.
Training will be provided in both general and addiction counselling skills by specialists drawn from the alcohol and drug and related fields. Upon completion of the training program volunteers will be involved in the provision of counselling services at various specialist drug agencies. Experienced counsellors will provide ongoing supervision.
Certificate
On successful completion of the training program, participants will be awarded a Certificate issued through the auspices of the National Drug Research Institute, Curtin University of Technology. Graduates can also obtain a Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs Work (CHC41702) through Central TAFE WA.
Applicants who have had alcohol and other drug-related problems within the past two years are not eligible to apply.
Who do you contact?
Contact Suzanne Helfgott, Manager Workforce Development on (08) 9370 0347, email suzanne.helfgott@health.wa.gov.au
Volunteer Addiction Counsellors’ Training Program Information sheet (PDF)