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ACA 2026 Counselling Excellence Award Winners

  

4 June 2026 

On 28 May 2026, the counselling community gathered in Melbourne for an evening dedicated to recognising the people and initiatives making a meaningful difference across the profession. The ACA Counselling Excellence Awards brought together members, educators, industry partners and supporters to celebrate outstanding achievements and the positive impact counsellors have in communities throughout Australia.

These awards acknowledge the passion, leadership and commitment that drive excellence in counselling practice. The evening was marked by inspiring stories, well-deserved recognition and a shared sense of pride in the work being carried out across the sector. Each finalist and award recipient has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others and advancing the standards of professional counselling.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our award sponsors: James Cook University, Focus Insurance, Australian Institute Professional Counsellors, Zanda Health, Supervision Training Services, The Cairmillar Institute, Institute Applied Psychology and Christian Heritage College, your support helped make this celebration possible.

Congratulations to all of our 2026 finalists and award recipients. Your contributions continue to strengthen our profession and inspire colleagues across the country.

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This Excellence in Research Award recognises a dedicated professional whose research has made a significant and lasting impact on the counselling profession. It celebrates methodological rigor, innovation in research design, and a profound contribution to advancing knowledge and understanding in the field. Through the publication and dissemination of their findings, this individual has enriched the counselling community and helped shape future practice and policy.

Dr Anni Hine Moana is recognised for her outstanding contribution to research, practice, and advocacy in the alcohol and other drugs sector. Dr Hine Moana’s work explores the intersection of trauma, culture, substance use, and systemic inequity. By centering Aboriginal perspectives and lived experience, her research continues to shape more culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and ethically grounded counselling practice. What makes Dr Hine Moana’s work truly exceptional is its real-world impact. By centering Aboriginal perspectives and lived experience, she has helped shift counselling practice toward approaches that are culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and grounded in genuine connection. Her influence extends beyond individual practice to service design, education, and ethical decision-making across the sector.

The Innovation in Counselling Award recognises a trailblazer in the field who has introduced new and effective counselling techniques or approaches. This award honours an individual who has successfully implemented innovative programs or services that have made a measurable difference. Their creativity and originality in addressing counselling challenges have not only improved client outcomes but also advanced the profession as a whole.

Recognised for developing the PMDD Reset Method, an innovative cycle-informed counselling model supporting women living with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. Amanda Westphal's work combines counselling, online learning, and group support to create more responsive, accessible, and empowering mental health care. This groundbreaking model reimagines how support is delivered to women living with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, a condition that affects thousands across Australia and is often underserved by traditional mental health approaches. Amanda’s work represents a powerful step forward in responsive, ethical, and inclusive counselling practice, and we are proud to recognise her contribution tonight.”

The Community Impact Award honours a counsellor or team whose work has made a significant and positive difference in the community. This award recognises outstanding collaboration with community organisations or stakeholders, innovative approaches to meeting community needs through counselling, and a demonstrated impact backed by meaningful testimonials and feedback. Their efforts reflect a deep commitment to fostering well-being and connection within the broader community.

Recognised for his work through Building Better Brains, supporting neurodivergent young people, families, educators, and communities through practical, neuroscience-informed programs. Tony Vallance's collaborative and community-focused approach continues to strengthen resilience, connection, and wellbeing across regional communities. His innovative programs, including Dad’s Chat and ADHD Unplugged, are equipping parents, educators, and communities with practical, neuroscience-informed tools that foster understanding, connection, and positive change. These programs continue to expand across communities, reflecting both their impact and growing demand.

A key strength of Tony’s work is his collaborative approach. By partnering with schools, councils, and community organisations, he builds shared understanding and creates sustainable, inclusive environments where individuals can thrive. Combining professional expertise with lived experience, Tony brings authenticity, creativity, and compassion to everything he does, bridging the gap between research and real-world application. His work continues to strengthen families, empower communities, and create lasting positive change.

The Excellence in Supervision Award honours a supervisor who has provided exceptional guidance and support to counselling students and professionals. This individual demonstrates a deep commitment to ongoing learning and professional development in supervision, consistently receives positive feedback from supervisees, and has made a meaningful impact on their professional growth. Their dedication to fostering the next generation of counsellors is truly commendable.

Over many years in child, family, and trauma-informed practice, Theresa has demonstrated exceptional skill, integrity, and leadership as a counselling supervisor. Her approach combines strong clinical expertise with a genuine commitment to developing others, supporting practitioners to grow in confidence, capability, and ethical practice. Theresa’s supervision style is both supportive and challenging. She creates safe, reflective spaces where supervisees can explore complexity, while also strengthening accountability, clinical reasoning, and professional boundaries.

Through her leadership, mentorship, and unwavering dedication, Theresa has made a lasting contribution to both practitioner development and the quality of care delivered to clients.

The Indigenous Counselling Award recognises an individual who either identifies as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander or works closely within Indigenous communities. This award celebrates a strong commitment to delivering culturally sensitive counselling services, advocacy for Indigenous mental health and well-being, and a meaningful, positive impact on the lives of Indigenous individuals and communities.

Working in Tennant Creek in the Northern Territory, Samone Sallik demonstrates exceptional dedication, resilience, and compassion in one of the country’s most challenging environments. Despite isolation, limited resources, and high community need, she consistently ensures that individuals and families have access to vital, culturally respectful, and trauma-aware support.

Samone is often the first point of care for women and children experiencing domestic and family violence, offering not only counselling, but safety, advocacy, and practical support during times of crisis. Her calm presence, empathy, and integrity make her a trusted and vital figure within the community. Samone’s courage, creativity, and dedication embody the very essence of this award.

The Advocacy and Social Justice Award recognises an individual who has shown exceptional leadership in raising awareness of critical social justice issues and a strong commitment to equity in counselling. Their collaboration with community organisations and stakeholders exemplifies a powerful dedication to creating a more just and inclusive society for all.
As the founder of Project 18, Jodie has created a safe, inclusive, and welcoming counselling space where young people feel truly seen, heard, and valued, many for the first time. Her work has opened doors for those who have struggled to access support elsewhere, ensuring care is both accessible and equitable.

Jodie’s advocacy extends far beyond the counselling room. She has been a tireless voice for young people across child protection and youth justice systems, championing their rights, challenging systemic barriers, and working to create meaningful change. Driven by courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to justice, Jodie continues to amplify the voices of young people and create pathways to safety, support, and opportunity.
The Regional, Rural and Remote Award honours the resilience and dedication required to overcome challenges in delivering essential counselling in underserved areas. Through their unwavering commitment, this individual has made a significant positive impact on the mental health and well-being of their community, helping to address disparities and bring meaningful support where it is most needed.
Since establishing MC Counselling in 2020, Mike has provided vital face-to-face and Telehealth support to the Gippsland community, serving clients across Traralgon, Sale, and surrounding areas. His work extends far beyond individual counselling, reflecting his commitment to accessibility, innovation, and community wellbeing.

Mike has demonstrated exceptional leadership as a Regional Board Director for VAADA and as Convenor of the ACA National Rural and Regional Chapter for the past four years. Through his monthly professional development meetings, he has created a trusted, inclusive, and supportive space for practitioners who might otherwise be isolated by geography. 

In 2025, he launched a Mental Health Counselling program for offshore oil and gas workers in the Bass Strait—the first in the company’s 60-year history—providing onshore and offshore support, including for couples. He also coordinates Bairnsdale’s Mental Health Professionals Network, strengthening collaboration among allied health professionals across the region.

This year we were pleased to introduce a new award to the Counselling Excellence Awards. The CEO’s Award was created to recognise an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to advancing the counselling profession and supporting community wellbeing. Personally selected, the CEOs award honours a practitioner whose impact extends beyond their immediate role, inspiring positive change, and meaningful outcomes within the counselling sector. It celebrates those who embody the values, vision, and future of counselling in Australia.
Carol Moore has made extraordinary contributions to the counselling profession, and her career is a true testament to dedication, passion, and service. Since beginning her counselling journey in 1995, Carol has worked tirelessly across private practice, EAP, NDIS, supervision, teaching, and mentoring. Even at 70, Carol continues to actively provide supervision, training, and support, demonstrating a career-long commitment to her clients, students, and colleagues.

Her contributions to counselling education are profound. Carol has lectured for over 25 years at TAFE, Tabor Christian College, and AIPC, managing the Adelaide branch for 17 of those years. She has shaped countless professional journeys through thoughtful guidance, deep listening, and compassionate mentorship. Her supervision practice alone reaches over 150 counsellors, providing affordable, practical, and ethical support that fosters growth, resilience, and professional excellence.

The Outstanding Student Counsellor Award recognises an emerging professional who has shown exceptional academic achievement and excellence in their counselling coursework. It honours a student who has demonstrated strong counselling skills, professionalism, and a meaningful contribution to their counselling program or community. With great promise and dedication, they show significant potential for future success in the counselling profession.

While completing his Master of Counselling at Monash University, Aaron has already demonstrated exceptional skill, professionalism, and dedication. During his placement at Bentleigh West Primary School, he completed over 200 hours of supervised counselling, supporting primary-aged students experiencing anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, peer challenges, and family stress. He also facilitated small group sessions focused on social skills and emotional literacy.


Aaron combines technical competence with a remarkable ability to build trust, hold therapeutic space with calm presence, and empower young clients to understand and manage their internal experiences. He demonstrates ethical maturity and professionalism, navigating complex situations with care, always prioritising client safety and wellbeing.


Beyond his placement, Aaron’s experience in youth mentoring, leadership programs, and understanding of the psychological impact of digital culture gives him a strong foundation for connecting with young people in meaningful, developmentally attuned ways. He is culturally sensitive, reflective, and consistently guided by respect, empathy, and a strengths-based approach.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is a tribute to an individual whose career has been defined by unwavering dedication to the counselling profession. This esteemed award recognises a legacy of significant contributions to the advancement of counselling theory, practice, or education, as well as influential leadership within the counselling community. Their enduring impact on clients, colleagues, and the profession stands as an inspiration to us all.

With over four decades dedicated to counselling, Jessica has made extraordinary contributions to the profession through clinical practice, education, research, and leadership. She has trained and mentored over 4,000 counsellors, led the Transactional Analysis Association in Singapore for more than 20 years, and held key leadership roles in multiple counselling and training organisations.
Jessica’s work has impacted countless clients, students, and colleagues, shaping the next generation of practitioners while advancing counselling theory and practice across diverse settings, from hospitals and schools to government and corporate organisations. Her career is a testament to compassion, integrity, and a lifelong commitment to the wellbeing of others. 

The Counsellor of the Year Award honours a professional who has demonstrated outstanding excellence in client care and outcomes, a deep commitment to ongoing learning and professional development, and a meaningful contribution to the counselling field through leadership or mentorship. Above all, this award celebrates an individual whose positive impact is felt not only by their clients, but also by their colleagues and the broader community.  

Rayma Torresan has dedicated her career to supporting women, children, and families experiencing complex trauma, domestic and family violence, substance misuse, and intergenerational disadvantage.

Through her work with the DCJ Thursday Program, Rayma has developed a trauma-informed, culturally responsive approach that combines counselling with accessible online learning. Her ability to build trust with clients, including Aboriginal women and culturally diverse communities, has been instrumental in helping families heal, engage in therapy, and achieve meaningful outcomes.

Rayma’s innovative and relational practice has not only improved the wellbeing of countless families, but also addressed service gaps in child protection, breaking cycles of trauma and supporting parents to safely care for their children. Please join me in celebrating Rayma Torresan for her outstanding contribution to counselling and the community.

The ACA Counselling Excellence Awards celebrate the dedication, innovation, and professionalism that continue to strengthen counselling across Australia. Each recipient and finalist represents the very best of our profession, demonstrating the profound impact counsellors have on individuals, families, and communities every day.

Congratulations once again to all our 2026 award winners and finalists. Your commitment to excellence, advocacy, leadership, education, research, and client care inspires us all and helps shape the future of counselling in Australia.

We thank our members, partners, sponsors, and supporters for joining us in recognising these outstanding achievements. Together, we continue to advance a profession that changes lives, promotes wellbeing, and creates stronger, more connected communities.