Description
Join our specialised training designed for adults supporting adolescents facing mental health challenges or crises. This course is ideal for anyone working with young people aged 12 to 18, including those providing pastoral care or interested in enhancing their skills. You’ll gain insight into adolescent development, learn to recognise common signs and symptoms of mental health concerns, and discover effective, research-backed support options. Whether you regularly engage with teens or occasionally assist younger or older individuals, this program will equip you with practical knowledge and resources to make a real difference. Perfect for educators, youth workers, and community members keen to foster wellbeing and resilience among Australia’s youth. Register now to build confidence in supporting young people’s mental health.
Health and safety precautions are important considerations for the AISWA MHFA trainers and for those who attend the training. However, these workshops are not designed as a therapy or support group. There is a risk that the information or discussions from these workshops can trigger a strong emotional reaction. Please consider this before choosing to attend the training.
Outcomes
- Recognise the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in adolescents.
- Recognise and respond to an emerging or worsening mental health problem and the treatments and supports available.
- Know how to approach a young person they are concerned about and initiate a conversation about those concerns.
- Know how to offer initial support and information and how to help a young person seek professional help or other supports.
- Know how to use a practical, evidence-based action plan.
Presenters
Julie Townsend (AISWA Staff)
Lead Psychologist
Julie is an Educational and Developmental Psychologist who has worked with Non-Government schools in Western Australia for over thirty years. Julie is currently the lead of the AISWA School Psychology Service. She has a passion for sharing psychological knowledge to support schools in optimising the learning, development and wellbeing of students. As part of the school psychology service, she works with children, parents, carers and teachers to help them understand issues students may experience. Julie is a current psychology board approved supervisor who has a passion for supporting the professional growth and development of psychologists.
Michelle Aulfrey (AISWA Staff)
Senior Psychologist
Having worked as a Psychologist in a diverse range of independent and government schools throughout her career, Michelle brings a wealth of experience to AISWA. In her role, Michelle directly supports a caseload of AISWA schools and is known for her warm, relational approach, which cultivates trust and connection.
As a skilled facilitator, Michelle is an accredited trainer in the Gatekeeper Suicide Prevention, Youth Mental Health First Aid, and Aussie Optimism programs. Michelle has a particular expertise in Critical Incident management, where she provides specialised support to schools during times of crisis, helping to reduce distress and promote the well-being and recovery of school communities.
Terms & Conditions
Please click here to view our general terms and conditions
Segments
Day 1
Date / Time
18 Aug 2026 Starts: 08:30 Finishes: 16:30Delivery Format : In Person
AISWA
Address41 Walters Drive
Osborne Park WA 6017
Australia
PL Hours : 8.00
Day 2
Date / Time
19 Aug 2026 Starts: 08:30 Finishes: 16:30Delivery Format : In Person
AISWA
Address41 Walters Drive
Osborne Park WA 6017
Australia
PL Hours : 8.00
Course Number
14Learning Area
- Psychology + Wellbeing
School Area
- Secondary (7-10)
- Senior Secondary (11 - 12)