Session 1: Tuesday 12 May 2026, 6–8 pm (AEST)
Session 2: Tuesday 19 May 2026, 6–8 pm (AEST)
Session 3: Tuesday 26 May 2026, 6–8 pm (AEST)
*Please note daylight savings time, registration is for all three sessions. This event will not be recorded.
This event has been postponed. Please email the Learning Hub if you would like to register your interest - [email protected]
Accidental Counsellor: In Practice is an evidence-based, next-level training designed for those who have completed Accidental Counsellor Plus or have equivalent experience and are ready to put their skills into practice. Building on the foundations of Accidental Counsellor Plus, this workshop focuses on confidently applying the 3Rs framework - Recognise, Respond and Refer - in real-world situations.
This practical training supports participants to offer appropriate assistance to people experiencing stress, personal distress, or thoughts of suicide, and to respond with insight, compassion, and understanding when challenging situations or crises arise. This course is not training to become a counsellor, but equips participants with practical tools to recognise concerns early, respond effectively, and connect people with appropriate support.
Learning objectives
Upon successful completion of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Identify signs and symptoms of stress, emotional distress, and personal crisis, including thoughts of suicide
- Apply and extend the 3Rs framework (Recognise, Respond, Refer) using practical, real-life examples
- Engage in supportive conversations using active listening and focused empathy skills
- Respond to challenging situations with confidence, compassion, and clear boundaries
- Refer individuals to appropriate supports, including professional services, resources, and information
Who should attend
This workshop is designed for people working on the frontlines of community, workplaces, and services who want to build on their existing Accidental Counsellor skills. While not a mandatory prerequisite, we recommend completing the Accidental Counsellor Plus (March 2026) course before undertaking this course.
Presenter
Brooke Bennett - Lifeline Northern Beaches
Brooke Bennett is a qualified trainer and group facilitator with over 10 years’ experience supporting people who support others. She has worked across the not-for-profit sector, corporate organisations, community groups and high schools, and values the diversity of people and experiences this brings.
Brooke is passionate about connecting with people and creating safe, inclusive and interactive learning environments. Her training equips participants with practical skills to support someone experiencing mental health challenges or crisis, including how to listen, respond, provide initial support and guide them towards professional help.
Brooke is committed to building connected, thriving communities through her work with Lifeline.
Pricing
- Members: $190
- Non-practicing members: $126
- Student Members: $95
- Non-Members: $285
FAQ
What should I expect in this LIVE Online session?
LIVE Online events are interactive workshops. Cameras are usually on, and participants are encouraged to take part in activities, discussions, and opportunities to share thoughts and answers throughout the session. You may also be invited to ask verbal questions directly to the presenter. By registering for this event, you are providing consent to be placed into break out rooms, should the presenter wish to incorporate these in their session. Break out rooms are not recorded.
Will there be breaks in the session?
Each presenter determines their own schedule and break times, and these will be communicated at the start of the session. Participants are welcome to turn off their camera and take a break at any time throughout the session, at their own discretion.
Do I need a Zoom account to join?
No – most participants can join directly using the Zoom link provided. Occasionally, Zoom may prompt you to sign in, especially if you’re joining via a browser or mobile device. If that happens, you can create a free Zoom account or sign in to an existing one.
When will I receive the Zoom link for this event?
You’ll receive an email with the Zoom link, password, and workshop timing on the morning of the event. Please check your junk/spam folder if you don’t see it. Please note the time zone of the event within this email. You can also access the link by going to your Learning Centre in the Learning Hub and clicking on the ‘attend’ button.
Will this event be recorded?
At the request of Lifeline, this event will not be recorded.
Will there be pre-work to complete for this event?
No, there will be no pre-work to complete for this event.
Where can I find the resources for the session?
All resources are uploaded to the Resources tab, accessible via your Learning Centre within the Learning Hub. If the presenter has shared their slides, these will also be downloadable via the Resources tab.
Who do I contact if I need technical support on the day?
If you experience problems joining or during the session, please contact [email protected].
Where can I find my certificate?
You can download your certificate in your Learning Centre upon completion of the workshop or course. Navigate to the Completed Tab and select the relevant activity.
How can I submit my feedback?
You will receive an email the day after the event with a link to complete an evaluation.
Additional information
Your registration is for all three sessions. If you do not attend the first session, you will be unable to attend session 2. At the request of Lifeline, please note that these sessions will NOT be recorded.
For further information, contact the Learning Hub.