What is couples therapy?
In couples therapy, you and your partner meet together with a psychologist who stays neutral and makes sure each of you is heard. Sessions look at how you communicate, the patterns that tend to repeat, and what each of you needs from the relationship. You usually leave with something concrete to try at home.
Some couples come to sort out a specific problem. Others want to strengthen a relationship that is mostly working, before a big change such as moving in together, having a baby or retiring.
Who it can help
Couples often seek help with:
- Frequent conflict, or arguments that go nowhere
- Feeling disconnected, or more like housemates than partners
- Rebuilding trust after a breach
- Stress from parenting, work, money or extended family
- Adjusting to a new life stage
- Deciding about the future of the relationship
How sessions work
The first session is longer, about 90 minutes, so the psychologist can understand your history and what each of you hopes for. Later sessions run for about 60 minutes. Depending on your situation, the psychologist may suggest an individual session with each partner along the way.
If you feel unsafe in your relationship, please tell us when you call. Joint sessions are not always the right first step, and we can talk about other support. You can also call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 at any time.
Fees and funding
Medicare does not currently pay rebates for couples therapy. Fees from 1 July 2026 are $300 for the first 90-minute session and $270 for each 60-minute session after that. Some private health funds pay a rebate under extras cover, so check with your fund. Full details are on our fees page.
How to get started
- Call us on 0410 029 886 or send the short form on this page.
- Complete the online couples counselling referral form.
- Book a time that suits you both.
- Attend the first, longer session together.
Referring a client or family member? Refer someone for couples therapy.
Prefer to see where we are first? Visit our locations page, or meet our team.