Course overview

Develop the confidence and skills to lead inclusive therapeutic support groups online.

Facilitating therapeutic support groups is a powerful way to help people feel connected and supported — but it requires skill and confidence to do well. This interactive training equips you with practical strategies for planning, structuring, and facilitating groups in ways that foster inclusion, safety, and positive outcomes for participants.

Through a mix of theory, demonstration, and interactive activities, you’ll explore group dynamics, trauma-informed practice, and approaches for responding to conflict or strong emotions. By the end, you’ll be prepared to create group spaces where participants feel heard, respected, and supported in their journey.

Who should attend

This course is designed for:

• Counsellors, psychologists, and social workers
• Community workers and youth workers
• Practitioners delivering group programs in therapeutic, community, or organisational settings.

Course structure

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Assess group readiness and suitability before commencing a program
• Plan and structure sessions with a clear purpose and boundaries
• Apply trauma-informed approaches when facilitating discussions
• Recognise and manage conflict and high emotions while maintaining psychological safety
• Facilitate inclusive, respectful group processes that encourage participation.

This training is delivered by senior Relationships Australia Victoria practitioners, with extensive experience in group facilitation and clinical practice.

About the presenters

Jeff Roberts is a clinical psychologist with more than 15 years’ experience in counselling and mental health settings across Australia and internationally. Jeff specialises in men's health and is also experienced working with LGBTIQA+ communities on a range of different issues including depression, anxiety, sexual health and interpersonal issues. He is highly experienced in performing IQ, personality and memory testing. Jeff is also experienced in coaching, training and leadership development within the corporate sector.

Enrolment and course access

• Registrations close 48 hours before the scheduled training date.
• Once enrolled, you’ll receive workshop schedules and online access details.

Technical requirements

To participate in the online workshop, you’ll need access to:

• A desktop or laptop computer
• Reliable internet connection
• Headphones (recommended)
• Microphone and speakers
• A built-in or external webcam.

Contact us

For further details or questions, please contact our Centre for Learning and Innovation:

Phone: (03) 8573 2222

Email: [email protected]