Dopamine, Choices & Addictions Seminar 2026

Dopamine, Choices & Addiction- Got questions?

Dopamine, Choices & Addiction – Got Questions?

Join us for an open, informative, and hope-filled community event exploring the powerful role dopamine plays in our choices, behaviours, and experiences of addiction. This event is for anyone who has ever wondered why we chase pleasure, why we struggle to stop harmful patterns, or how understanding the brain can change lives. Whether your questions are personal, professional, or driven by care for someone you love, you are warmly welcome.

Understanding the dopamine drive in addiction is more than just interesting science — it can be life-changing. Education brings clarity, reduces shame, and opens the door to informed choices, compassion, and recovery. For many, this knowledge can quite literally help save a life — their own or that of a loved one.

The afternoon will begin with a welcome from Penny Wilkinson, Founder of The Overcomers Place, followed by a keynote presentation from Dr Anastasia Hronis, (linkedin.com/in/anastasiahronis) clinical psychologist, research fellow at UTS, and author of The Dopamine Brain (Penguin Books Australia). Dr Hronis will unpack the science of dopamine in a way that is accessible, practical, and deeply relevant to everyday life. You’ll also hear from Dr Mike Atherton, leading addictions psychiatrist at The Sydney Clinic and Director at The Overcomers Place, who will speak about understanding addiction treatment and pathways to recovery.

The event will conclude with an extended panel Q&A, giving you the opportunity to ask your questions directly to our expert panel: Dr Anastasia Hronis, Dr Mike Atherton, Jonathan Martin (Senior TOP addictions & recovery therapist) and Penny Wilkinson. Questions can be submitted on the day or emailed in advance to Dawna at info@theovercomersplace.com.au, ensuring your concerns are heard and addressed in a supportive, respectful space.

If you have any questions about the event, please contact us through our website. We look forward to welcoming you into a conversation grounded in knowledge, hope, and community.

Contact us through our website if you have any questions about the event.