Volunteer Role: Psychologist / School Counsellor / Drama Therapist / Counsellor

Make a Difference - Support Young Refugees – Build Healing and Acceptance Through Theatre.

Treehouse Theatre is seeking one or more psychologists/counsellors or other appropriately qualified volunteers to play a key role in a unique trauma recovery program for young refugees in Western Sydney. If two or more volunteers can be found, then the commitment can be reduced accordingly.

About the Organisation Treehouse Theatre is a not-for-profit organisation that works with newly arrived refugee students to transform their personal stories into powerful theatre performances.

The Treehouse program provides a safe, supportive, and creative environment where young refugees:

• Share their lived experiences in guided group storytelling and counselling circles
• Have their stories developed into scripts and theatrical works
• Rehearse and perform in professional theatre settings
• Build confidence, connection and a sense of belonging

The program has a dual aim:

• Facilitating trauma recovery and emotional processing
• Educating Australian audiences about the refugee experience

Participants consistently report improvements in wellbeing, including reduced anxiety and increased confidence, as they regain control over their narratives through storytelling and performance.

Why Volunteer With Us?

• Be part of a high-impact, life-changing program
• Support young people in their healing, confidence and identity development
• Contribute to meaningful social change and community understanding
• Work alongside experienced theatre practitioners and educators
• Witness powerful performances that inspire empathy and connection

Impact

• This role directly supports a program where young refugees:
• Transform trauma into creative expression
• Build resilience and confidence
• Help audiences better understand the human stories behind displacement

Program Structure Semester 1: Miller Technology High School Semester 2: Holroyd High School Weekly Sunday workshops during school terms

Program culminates in professional performances at:

• Liverpool Powerhouse (June)
• Seymour Centre (November)

The Role We are seeking a volunteer psychologist, school counsellor, drama therapist or counsellor to support young refugee participants throughout the program. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of mental health, trauma-informed care and creative arts practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide trauma-informed support during workshops and storytelling sessions
• Help maintain a safe and emotionally supportive environment
• Monitor student wellbeing and respond appropriately to distress
• Collaborate with program facilitators (directors, teachers, volunteers)
• Offer guidance on best practice for working with trauma and disclosure
• Support debriefing processes during and after rehearsals and performances

Skills & Experience

We welcome applicants with:

• Qualifications or training in psychology, counselling or drama therapy
• Experience working with children and/or adolescents
• Understanding of trauma-informed practice (essential)
• Experience with refugee or culturally diverse communities (highly desirable)
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work collaboratively in a creative environment
• Interest in theatre (preferred)
• Working with children check (essential)

Commitment

• Availability for Semester 1 and/or Semester 2. Both semesters include 16 weeks of weekend rehearsals (usually Sundays) and 3 days in school holidays.
• Availability to conduct 2 hour group counselling sessions every Sunday for first 8-10 weeks (essential).
• Individual counselling sessions one day a week during school hours (preferred).
• Weekend rehearsals from 9 am to 3pm after the first 8-10 weeks. (preferred).
• Locations: Western Sydney (Miller & Holroyd areas)
• Commencement: anytime but preferably before August 2026 so that the successful applicant can be mentored in the role to start March 2027.

How to Apply Please submit your application to [email protected], and [email protected]

Application should include:

• A short expression of interest
• Your qualifications and relevant experience
• Availability