A Ripple Story…

Victoria Renard

Changing careers, Not-for-profit sector

Victoria applies positive psychology by using strengths-based, compassionate approaches to support herself and others through change, deepen relationships, and bring practical, solution-focused thinking into leadership and organisational contexts.

Melbourne, Australia

Alumni:

🎓 Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing

What drew you to study the Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing?

I have a background in NFP and had to change careers to find shift work that allowed me to be a full-time carer for my mum during the day. After 6 years of care work, I am now re-entering the not-for-profit sector and wanted to upskill to maximise my prospects.

How was your experience studying this course?

"Life can be busy, messy, and sometimes challenging – the delightful thing about doing a course in Positive Psychology is that the team are experts in empathy and motivation, and the course is designed to scaffold your learning while providing support and understanding of any hurdles that may arise during your studies."

I thoroughly enjoyed the Diploma of Psychology and Wellbeing and found it especially useful to know exactly what I would be using it for once my studies were complete. It was satisfying to find content relevant to the line of work I wish to pursue and to envisage how I would use it in an organisational setting.

While my goal was to further my expertise in person-centred support and team management, I found I was also learning a lot about myself and how to have a positive impact on my personal relationships. It was helpful to personally participate in the diagnostics and interventions I will be facilitating for others, as it provides a first-hand understanding of what participants may experience. With increased empathy for these processes, I feel better prepared on how best to assist those under my care.

I can’t overstate the importance of the Langley Group Institute team and their ability to create a safe and connected learning environment. The content was not only engaging; it was also wonderfully varied and interactive, and designed to deepen relationships between fellow participants, which created a culture of respect and trust from which we all benefited.

Our facilitator, our student support and assessment contact, and the entire business and administration team were always encouraging and genuine in their desire to see each student flourish.

"Regardless of how you wish to use the skills and insights gained in this course, you come away with an invaluable set of tools to navigate life and actively contribute to the wellbeing of those around you."

Whether it is for your own personal development or to add value to your professional life, the knowledge and self-awareness gained will continue to help you thrive well beyond the Diploma.

 

How are you spreading positive ripples in your world?

"As I am currently job hunting, in interviews, I have been able to explicitly outline how I would approach challenging scenarios within a leadership role and how I would implement positive psychology interventions into HR processes and practices – thankfully, these solution-based responses have allowed me to progress to the next round of potential candidates."

Since completing the course, I have made concerted efforts to challenge my unhelpful self-beliefs and have used many of the positive psychology interventions in my personal relationships to strengthen our bond and provide better support. I have used the techniques we were taught to help friends navigate difficult situations in their personal and professional lives, and I was thrilled to hear how these have improved for them as a result of our conversations.

Through one of the projects included in the coursework, I have also made contact with a former employer and some of the team members I used to manage. I interviewed them, designed a strengths-based assessment, and developed a set of recommendations to help them seek better support in their current roles. It was encouraging to see their newfound motivation and increased confidence in approaching their superiors to pursue further professional growth within their organisation. They have reported enjoying increased psychological wellbeing since our interactions and feel clearer about how to identify and cultivate prospects that will allow them to continue to thrive.

Inspired by Victoria's ripple story?

Isn’t it powerful how Victoria:

  • Used positive psychology as a practical framework to navigate career transition while balancing significant caregiving responsibilities

  • Applied strengths, empathy, and self-awareness to deepen personal relationships and support others through challenging moments

  • Built the confidence to articulate values-led, solution-focused approaches in leadership and HR scenarios

  • Gained first-hand insight by experiencing the diagnostics and interventions she now feels prepared to facilitate for others

  • Created meaningful impact through strengths-based conversations that improved wellbeing, motivation, and clarity for those around her

  • Developed capability, confidence, and credibility to re-enter the not-for-profit sector with purpose and direction

Discover how positive psychology, grounded in strengths, compassion, and evidence-based practice, can be applied in realistic and meaningful ways to support wellbeing, leadership, and life transitions, just as Victoria has done.

Join our next Diploma of Positive Psychology and Wellbeing or Certificate IV in Wellbeing Science intake and learn how practical tools can help you build confidence, clarity, and positive impact. For yourself, and for the people you support.

Enquire here or book a call to learn more.