Keynote Workshop<br> Apply a Shame-Sensitive and Culturally Responsive Lens in Domestic Family Violence Work
Tracks
Prince Room - In-Person & Virtual
Monarch Room - In-Person Only
Marquis Room - In-Person Only
| Thursday, May 28, 2026 |
| 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM |
Overview
Hala Abdelnour, Institute of Non-Violence
Details
Three Key Learnings
1. Examine the significance of centring the shame response in addictions practice, with attention to cultural and systemic factors.
2. Recognise the pervasive nature of shame and consider the risks associated with failing to address it, such as escalating harm.
3. Utilise innovative and relational approaches when engaging with issues of shame and trauma.
1. Examine the significance of centring the shame response in addictions practice, with attention to cultural and systemic factors.
2. Recognise the pervasive nature of shame and consider the risks associated with failing to address it, such as escalating harm.
3. Utilise innovative and relational approaches when engaging with issues of shame and trauma.
Speaker
Hala Abdelnour
CEO and Founder
Institute of non-violence
Apply a shame-sensitive and culturally responsive lens in DFV work
Abstract
Trauma responses in service users are often missed, with shame frequently overlooked. Research shows that shame can prevent violence against oneself or others, including harms from addiction and resistance to treatment.
This workshop will explore how shame relates to identity, wellbeing, and behaviour. Definitions and practical models will be discussed through interactive demonstrations to support trauma-responsive and shame-sensitive practice.
Practitioners will examine how shame influences violent behaviors (like addiction and self-harm), and how it can encourage growth and change. Psychodynamic theories about stress-driven coping mechanisms will be applied, especially regarding substance abuse.
We will address culturally safe methods and First Nations wisdom, plus intersectional feminist and biopsychosocial frameworks to integrate cultural factors and systemic oppression. Participants will reflect on whether broader systems adequately protect against shame and trauma, drawing from experiences with groups affected by addiction, incarceration, migration, and family violence.
Understanding shame has major implications for AOD and addiction services, peer work, outreach, and aftercare. Centring shame equips practitioners to better facilitate change and address harmful behaviours.
This workshop will explore how shame relates to identity, wellbeing, and behaviour. Definitions and practical models will be discussed through interactive demonstrations to support trauma-responsive and shame-sensitive practice.
Practitioners will examine how shame influences violent behaviors (like addiction and self-harm), and how it can encourage growth and change. Psychodynamic theories about stress-driven coping mechanisms will be applied, especially regarding substance abuse.
We will address culturally safe methods and First Nations wisdom, plus intersectional feminist and biopsychosocial frameworks to integrate cultural factors and systemic oppression. Participants will reflect on whether broader systems adequately protect against shame and trauma, drawing from experiences with groups affected by addiction, incarceration, migration, and family violence.
Understanding shame has major implications for AOD and addiction services, peer work, outreach, and aftercare. Centring shame equips practitioners to better facilitate change and address harmful behaviours.
Biography
Founder of the Institute of non-violence, Hala is a passionate advocate for peace and justice. Trained in Psychology, Social Work, Psychodrama and Criminology, Hala established IoNV in 2020 as a specialist service supporting family violence response globally. An advanced group facilitator, Hala has delivered numerous Men’s Behaviour Change programs, worked in addiction and settlement and has international experience in a range of industries. A lover of communication and robust discussions, Hala has presented at a range of national and international forums, podcasts, TV and radio. Hala acknowledges First Nations elders as continuous traditional custodians of the lands we now call Australia.
