MidstreamHow to book a relationship counsellor in Melbourne and prepare for your first session
A practical, step-by-step guide to booking your first couples counselling appointment in Melbourne, from choosing in-room or online to what to bring on the day.
Step 1: Decide whether you'll come together or alone
Most couples start with a joint session, so both people are heard from the beginning. But you can also book on your own if your partner isn't ready, or if you'd like to think things through first. Read more about individual relationship counselling.
If you feel afraid of your partner, or there is violence, threats or control in the relationship, joint counselling isn't the right first step. Book individual support instead. In an emergency call 000. For confidential help call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Counselling isn't an emergency service.
Step 2: Choose in the room or online
Both options work well. Think about what suits your life:
- In the room: 450 Doncaster Road, Doncaster VIC 3108, about 20 minutes from the CBD, close to the Eastern Freeway (M3) and buses along Doncaster Road.
- Online: secure video from anywhere in Australia, handy if you're busy, live outside Melbourne or can't easily arrange childcare.
Some couples prefer a neutral room away from home for difficult conversations. Others find it easier to open up from the couch. See online counselling or our guide to online couples counselling in Australia. Read more about marriage counselling in Melbourne.
Step 3: Book online
Go to book.counselling.support and you'll see the current session options, fees and available times. Pick the option that fits, choose a time and enter your details.
A $50 deposit secures your first booking. You don't need a GP referral or mental health care plan. If you'd rather talk first, call 03 9003 2595 or use the Contact page.
Medicare generally doesn't cover counselling with a counsellor, but some private health funds offer rebates for counselling under extras cover. It's worth checking with your fund before your first session. Our guide to couples counselling cost and Medicare explains more.
Step 4: Check the cancellation policy
Life happens. The cancellation and rescheduling policy is shown when you book, so take a moment to read it and pop the appointment in both your calendars.
Step 5: Talk with your partner before the session
You don't need to agree on what the problem is. It helps to agree on a few practical things:
- Who's going to book, and whether you'll travel together.
- That you'll both come with an open mind, even if one of you is nervous.
- That neither of you will use the session to "win", and you'll each get time to speak.
If your partner is hesitant, it can help to share a gentle explainer such as how counselling works.
How do I prepare for my first couples counselling appointment?
You don't need to prepare anything formal. A short reflection beforehand can make the first session feel more focused. Each of you might jot down:
- Two or three things you'd most like to be different.
- A recent example of an argument or moment of disconnection.
- What you've already tried, and what helped even a little.
- Anything big happening in your life right now: a move, a new baby, illness, work stress or grief.
What to bring
- Your notes, if you made them.
- A water bottle and anything that helps you feel comfortable.
- For online sessions: a charged device, headphones if you have them, a stable internet connection and a private room where you won't be overheard or interrupted.
- Your private health fund details, if you plan to check about a rebate.
Questions you might want to ask
It's completely fine to ask questions at the start of your first session, or when you call. For example:
- How do sessions usually run, and how long are they?
- Will we always be seen together, or sometimes individually?
- How is confidentiality handled?
- How will we know if counselling is helping?
- How often should we come?
What to expect in the first couples therapy session
The first session is mostly a conversation. You'll each describe what brings you in, what you'd like to change and how you see things. The counsellor will explain how sessions work and help you agree on what to focus on next. Feeling awkward or emotional is normal. For a fuller picture, read what to expect in your first couples counselling session or see the first session page.
Booking a relationship counsellor in Melbourne with Midstream Counselling
Booking a relationship counsellor in Melbourne feels easier when you know who you will be seeing. Elena Basova has supported couples and individuals since 2022, including dating, married, de facto, separated, co-parenting, same-sex and transgender couples. You can find out more about Elena or browse the FAQ before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see a relationship counsellor in Melbourne?
No. You can book directly with Midstream Counselling without a GP referral or a mental health care plan. A $50 deposit secures your first booking.
How do I book a couples counselling session?
Book online at book.counselling.support, where you'll see current session options, fees and times. You can also call 03 9003 2595 if you'd like to ask something first.
What should we bring to our first couples counselling appointment?
Bring any notes about what you'd like to change and anything that helps you feel comfortable. For online sessions, set up a private, quiet space with a reliable connection.
What if we need to cancel or reschedule?
The cancellation policy is shown when you book, so check it at that point. If something comes up, let the practice know as early as you can.