Welcome to the ACA 2024 Inaugural Symposium
The Australian Counselling Association is thrilled to invite you to our Inaugural Symposium on October 31st, 2024, at the stunning Victoria Park Ballroom in Brisbane, or virtually from the comfort of your own home. This hybrid event is a landmark in the Australian counselling and psychotherapy community, offering an unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and grow.
Why Attend?
This Symposium brings together the leading minds in mental health and counselling for a day packed with learning, networking, and professional development. You’ll have the chance to:
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with counsellors and mental health experts from across the country. Build professional relationships, share insights, and collaborate on solutions to common challenges.
- Educational Sessions: Learn from a diverse lineup of expert speakers discussing topics ranging from mental health research, online bullying, and disability services to creative arts therapy and family mediation. These presentations will deepen your understanding and provide practical strategies you can apply in your practice.
- Professional Growth: Gain new skills and stay up to date with cutting-edge research, all while earning 6 OPD points. This event is the perfect opportunity to enhance your professional credentials and enrich your counselling practice.
Key Topics and Insights
Throughout the day, you’ll hear from a diverse range of speakers who are leading voices in counselling, mental health, and related fields. Here are some highlights:
Beyond Blue’s Strategy for Early Intervention presented by Themis Antony, focusing on emerging mental health issues and evidence-based tools to optimise community wellbeing.
Online Bullying and Victimisation: Prevention and Intervention Strategies by Christine Suniti Bhat, examining the impact of social media on youth and the best practices for preventing online harm.
Psychosocial Hazards in High-Risk Industries discussed by Colin Stokes and Tu Boldeman, addressing how mental health and suicide prevention are driving change in industries like construction.
Creative Arts Therapy insights from Kate Dempsey, highlighting the progress and efficacy of creative arts therapies in addressing mental health challenges.
Family Dispute Resolution (FDR) presented by Amaya Iriondo, providing an in-depth understanding of FDR and how counsellors can support clients navigating family mediation.
The NDIS Road Ahead with Jeremy Farley, exploring the key considerations for counsellors in light of the latest disability sector reforms.
Religious Harm and LGBTQIA+ Identities presented by Dr. Joel Hollier, a sensitive exploration of religious trauma and the lived experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals in religious spaces.
Program Overview
The symposium will run from 8 AM to 5 PM (AEST), with engaging presentations, networking breaks, and interactive Q&A sessions throughout the day. Both in-person and online attendees will have access to live-streamed sessions, recordings, and the Symposium App to ensure they don’t miss a moment of this enriching experience.
- Morning Tea, Lunch, and Afternoon Tea will be provided for in-person attendees, with a special cocktail function to wrap up the day’s activities.
Registration and Pricing
Register now to secure your spot at the symposium. Pricing for in-person and online attendees is as follows:
-
In-Person Registration:
Early Bird: $396 (until 6 October)
Standard: $440
Includes meals, networking opportunities, and a cocktail function. -
Online Registration:
Early Bird: $286 (until 6 October)
Standard: $330
Includes access to live streaming, Q&A, and session recordings.
Both in-person and online attendees will be eligible for 6 OPD points and will receive a personalised certificate of attendance after the event.
Venue: Victoria Park Ballroom, Brisbane
The symposium will take place in the stunning Victoria Park Ballroom, offering breathtaking views of the Brisbane city skyline. Located just 20 minutes from Brisbane Airport, the venue is easily accessible, with free parking available onsite. Attendees can also explore Brisbane’s vibrant cultural scene, with nearby attractions such as South Bank Parklands, the Brisbane River, and the Queensland Art Gallery.
Register Now!
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of the ACA’s Inaugural Symposium. Visit our event website to register, view pricing options, and explore more details about the event. Email events@theaca.net.au for inquiries.
Whether you’re joining us in person or online, we look forward to seeing you on October 31st for a day of learning, growth, and community building.
