Professional Development Training

presented by Lauren Zelunka & Sheridon Byrne

Introduction to Motivational Interviewing for AOD workers

Details

When
Monday 3 August 2026 - 9:30am to
Tuesday 4 August 2026 - 4:30pm

Where

Turning Point, 110 Church St, Richmond 3121, Level 1, Training Rooms

This workshop is only available to staff who are working in a Victorian Department of Health (DH) funded AOD organisation.

Cost
Free

Curious about Motivational Interviewing (MI) or looking to build your confidence in having conversations about change? This practical, hands-on workshop is designed especially for those working in Department of Health funded AOD positions who want to learn (or re-learn) how MI can make everyday client interactions more effective and meaningful. 

Motivational Interviewing is a simple yet powerful approach that helps people find their own reasons for making positive changes — without pressure or persuasion. It’s about working with clients, not on them, and creating space for open, respectful conversations about change. 

Across two days, you’ll have the chance to: 

  • Learn what MI is and how it supports real-world AOD work 
  • Experience the “spirit” of MI — collaboration, acceptance, and compassion 
  • Practice using questions, reflections, and summaries to keep conversations flowing 
  • Explore ways to respond when clients feel unsure or stuck 
  • Build skills you can take straight back into your day-to-day work 

Lauren Zelunka has over 10 years of experience in the Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) sector, with the past five years focused primarily on AOD education and training. She is passionate about equipping professionals with the skills and confidence to use Motivational Interviewing effectively in their work. Lauren is currently involved with the Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers Oceania (MINTO) as a Friend of MINTO and is working toward becoming a registered member in the coming years. 

Sheridon Byrne is an Education and Training Officer within the workforce development team, with over two decades of experience in capacity building across family violence and AOD. Her work focuses on strengthening practitioner confidence and capability in having effective, respectful conversations about change. Her work includes private consultation and the design of tailored training programs that support sustainable skill development. Sheridon is deeply committed to fostering systemic change and supporting practitioners to use MI with clarity, confidence, and compassion in their day‑to‑day AOD work.

Who should attend? Victorian Department Health funded AOD workers new to their role and/or those looking to refresh and update existing knowledge.

Register your details

Date: 2 Day Workshop - Monday 3rd & Tuesday 4th August 2026 (AEST)

Venue: Turning Point, 110 Church St, Richmond 3121, Level 1, Training Rooms

Time: 09:30am – 04:30pm AEST

Register: click here to register there is no cost to attend but registrations are essential

Enquiries: [email protected]