Couples counselling questions, answered

The first session is a conversation. We talk about what brings you in, what each of you would like to change and what has already been tried. From there we look at the patterns between you, not who is to blame, and work on practical ways to communicate, repair and reconnect. Sessions are calm, structured and paced so that both partners feel heard.

No. You don't need a GP referral or a mental health care plan to book couples or individual counselling. You can book online or send a request from the Contact page.

That's common, and you can still start. Individual sessions can help you understand the relationship, look after yourself and decide what you want. Many partners join later once they see it is a safe, non-judgemental space.

Not at all. We see couples who are dating, engaged, married, living together, separated or co-parenting, including same-sex and transgender couples. Pre-marriage counselling is also welcome if you'd like to build strong foundations before the wedding.

Fees depend on the session type and length. Current session options and prices are shown when you book online. A $50 deposit secures your first booking.

Generally no. Medicare rebates under a mental health care plan apply to psychologists and some other registered providers, and they don't usually cover relationship or couples counselling. Many people choose a counsellor so they can start without a referral or a plan.

Some private health funds offer rebates for counselling under extras cover. It depends on your fund and level of cover, so please check with your fund before your first session.

It varies. Some couples come for a few sessions to work through one issue; others prefer ongoing support over several months. Many notice a difference within the first 4 to 6 sessions. We review progress together and you decide the pace.

If the same arguments keep repeating, you feel distant, trust has been shaken or a big change has knocked you off course, counselling can help. Try the free, private 2-minute relationship check-in to reflect on where you are.

Couples counselling helps most when both partners are willing to take part and come early, before problems become entrenched. It can't promise a particular outcome, but it can help you understand each other, communicate with less conflict and make clear decisions about the future, together or apart.

In Australia, psychologists are registered with AHPRA and often focus on assessment and diagnosis, and their sessions can attract Medicare rebates. Counsellors focus on talking therapy for life and relationship difficulties, such as communication, conflict, trust, grief and stress, and you don't need a referral. For couples work, what matters most is experience with couples and feeling comfortable with the person you see.

The practice is at 450 Doncaster Road, Doncaster VIC 3108, in Melbourne's eastern suburbs: about 20 minutes from the CBD with easy access to the Eastern Freeway (M3), and buses along Doncaster Road.

Clients come from right across Melbourne's east and north-east, including Doncaster, Doncaster East, Templestowe, Templestowe Lower, Bulleen, Balwyn, Balwyn North, Box Hill, Kew, Mont Albert, Donvale, Park Orchards, Blackburn, Nunawading, Warrandyte, Camberwell, Surrey Hills, Ivanhoe and Heidelberg. Read more about getting here.

Yes. Online sessions run by secure video, so you can attend from home anywhere in Australia, or join from different places if you are apart.

Sessions are by appointment. Choose a time that suits you when you book online.

Yes. What you share in counselling is confidential, with a few legal exceptions such as a serious risk of harm. You can read the full Privacy Policy.

Yes. Trust repair after infidelity is one of the most common reasons couples come in. We steady the crisis first, then work on understanding what happened and deciding the way forward.

Counselling is not an emergency service. If you or someone else is in danger, call 000. For 24/7 crisis support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Yes. Counselling gift cards are valid for 3 years and are sent by email or post. The recipient activates the card when they book and chooses a time that suits them.